Local squash professional John Rooney claimed his first Irish senior national title at the weekend.
The 30-years-old from Salthill is the first man from Connacht to win the most prestigious title in Irish squash.
Rooney, who had been a finalist for the previous three years, prevailed over fellow professional and Irish teammate Arthur Gaskin from Carlow in the final.
Rooney stormed into an early lead taking the first game 11-6, making his opponent work for every return while commanding the centre of the court throughout. He continued the second game as he finished the first, giving no easy point away. Midway through the second game Rooney looked unstoppable and took the second game 11-5.
In the third and final game Rooney’s experience and determination saw him win the game 11-7 to write himself into the Connacht and Galway history books.
Rooney said: “I have waited a long time for this moment. I have been in the final before but could never manage to get my hands on the cup. I am delighted and thrilled to have finally won the event. I would also like to thank my family, friends, and supporters who turn up year on year to cheer me on.”
