Todd back on home turf for landmark event
As a professional squash player, Nikki Todd has travelled all over the world.
But one non-exotic road trip — one that will bring her home — will be extra special for the 27-year-old Toronto resident.
Todd, who lived in Regina until she was 18, is about to compete in the inaugural Queen City Open. The 16-player women’s event runs Thursday to Sunday at the Evolution Fitness courts on Pasqua Street.
“It’s so exciting to be competing at home and know I have a full crowd supporting me and cheering me on ... hopefully,” Todd said.
The Professional Squash Association event offers total prize money of US$15,000 but, according to Todd, its significance extends beyond the financial incentives.
“Every tournament is important for my world ranking, but this is Regina’s — and I believe Saskatchewan’s — first ever professional female squash tournament,” said Todd, who recently moved up two spots (to 51st) in the rankings.
“Having players here at this level will help to promote the sport in Saskatchewan and hopefully inspire some more people to start playing, especially women. It would be amazing to see some more Saskatchewan players on the pro tour or competing at a national level.” The more, the merrier.
“The best thing about squash is definitely the people,” Todd said. “I have met some of my best friends through squash. But it’s also an amazing workout and has given me an opportunity to travel all over the world.”
She didn’t have to travel very far for one of her favourite global events. In 2015, Todd competed in the Toronto-based Pan American Games, winning a silver medal in women’s doubles.
“It was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had representing Canada, and I think a big part of that was because the games were in Canada,” Todd said. “The crowd and atmosphere were incredible.
“Reaching the podium with one of my best friends, Sam Cornett, in the doubles event made it even better.”
This weekend’s event will feature competitors from Canada, the U.S., Egypt, England, Mexico, Czech Republic, Colombia, Australia, India and the Netherlands.
Admission is free.