Another top title for Crieff’s Rory
Perthshire squash star Rory Stewart backed up his recent win at the British U23 Open by landing the national U23 title on Sunday.
The 20-year-old from Crieff saw off the stern challenge of Martin Ross from Inverness to take the title at the Scottish Squash Junior and U23 National Championships in Aberdeen.
After getting the better of his opponent over four tight games, Rory dedicated his victory to his mum, Susan, who was celebrating her birthday while watching on at Aberdeen Squash and Racketball Club.
In the semi-finals, Rory, who has recently moved up to 270 in the senior pro rankings, beat housemate Craig Valente-Wallace in three games to claim his place in the final.
He said:“I’m delighted to have won after my win at the British Open.
“I played my flatmate in the semi-finals and beating him in three games allowed me to be fresh for the final.
“Fair play to Martin, he didn’t make it easy for me at all but I’m pleased to get it done in four.”
Rory added:“Ever since Christmas I have kept my head down and worked hard with my coach Paul Bell and it’s great things are paying off.
“I didn’t get my mum a birthday present but hopefully she’s happy that I won the national championships and she can have my trophy.”
This weekend Rory returns to senior action taking part in the British National Championships in Manchester.
Meanwhile, fellow Crieff player Lucy Murchie claimed a silver medal at the national championships, losing out to Glasgow’s Orla Young in the Girls U15 final. Crieff’s Rory Stewart and Scotland National Coach Paul Bell