Some of the world's top squash players are returning to Galway to compete in the West of Ireland Open this weekend.
Professionals will be travelling from New Zealand, Malaysia, Egypt, Argentina, and all around Europe to compete for a prize fund of $10,000.
Top seed is Joshua Masters from England, a world top 50 player, but there is huge local interest in Brian Byrne, a Connacht man, playing in the first round as a wild card. The Irish No 2 will be looking to raise his game to reach the quarter-final stage.
This event is free to enter and is a real treat, as always, of professional athleticism in one of the fastest, most dynamic sports around.
With newly refurbished courts and viewing for 120, visitors are invited to view these top players in action.
The first round commences this evening (Thursday ) at 5pm with the quarter-finals on Friday from 5pm. The semi-finals take place on Saturday from 3pm, followed by the finals on Easter Sunday at 2pm.
The Galway Lawn Tennis Club hosts this Professional Squash Association event, which is sponsored by Garavan's Bar.
