US Open's New Super Series Status Reflects Growing Appeal of Squash in North America

US-based Event Engine Inc, the driving force behind three of North America's most prestigious squash events - US Open, PACE Canadian Classic and Bear Stearns Tournament of Champions ­ has raised the bar for quality squash competition: The promotion company's three key squash competitions have all achieved Super Series status on the PSA Tour - the US Open, from 13-16 November, being the latest to join the fold.

John Nimick, US Open tournament chairman and president of Event Engine, explains: "Aside from the obvious monetary benefit to the players, the elevation to Super Series level most benefits the growing base of squash fans who want to see the world's best players. This improved ranking is the direct result of North America's growing respect and appreciation for the sport. As a promoter, this is very good news."

Often considered a niche sport, squash in the United States has a loyal and growing support base. Upwards of 400,000 players and spectators are among a motivated group who seek out world-class competition in squash, often considered one of the most physically demanding sports in the world.

One of the sport's true pioneers, Nimick has hosted tournaments in a number of highly impressive locations, from the hallowed halls of Harvard and the iconic confines of world-renowned Boston Symphony Hall to the hustle and bustle of New York's Grand Central Terminal.

And this year is no exception: The prestigious US Open tournament will move to the Back Bay Events Center and onto the stage of the comfortable 1100-seater John Hancock Hall in Boston. The new venue, coupled with its PSA-sanctioned Super Series level designation, ensures this year's US Open will enjoy participation by a stellar field of competitors.

"The facilities at the Back Bay Events Center are outstanding," adds Nimick. "We anticipate offering fans a top quality entertainment experience unlike anything they have ever encountered in Boston."

Nimick, inducted into the United States Squash Racquets Association Hall of Fame in March of this year for his unwavering promotion of the sport through first-class competitions and his own impressive squash playing history, notes the professional draw will offer upwards of $80,000 in prize money, close to 30% more than the previous year.

Rounding out the grand-slam-like event, US Open qualifying and first rounds, as well as a junior tournament competition, will continue at Harvard's world-class Murr Center's squash facility. Reserved tickets are now available by calling +1 877.524.5685 or visiting www.usopensquash.com

The top male squash players from around the globe are expected to compete for the coveted US Open Championship title, including 2004 and 2005 champion Lee Beachill (England, 9) and his compatriot James Willstrop, world number four; from down under, David Palmer and Anthony Ricketts (Australia, 2 & 5, respectively); and Scotland's shot maker John White (11), who started the year off strong and appears to have his groove back, pushing out world No1 Amr Shabana in the first round of the recent British Open. American junior stand-outs Chris Gordon and Julian Illingworth are also expected to compete in the Qualifying rounds, as will up to six more American players.

Tournament sponsors to date include Banc of America Securities, Beacon Capital Partners Management, Boston Racquet Club, Brown Brothers Harriman, Canaccord Adams, Chubb Insurance, Diageo, Dover Rug Company, Dunlop, Grand Circle Travel, IXIS Asset Management Advisors Group, Kansas City Life Insurance, McCall & Almy, Putnam Investments, Rubin and Rudman, Shipyard Brewery and WBUR.

The United States Open Squash Championship title is owned by the United States Squash Racquets Association and licensed to Event Engine, Inc.

Schedule of main draw matches at John Hancock Hall's Back Bay Events Center is as follows:

Mon Nov 13 Noon ­ 10:00 p.m Second Round (2 separate sessions, noon & 6:00 p.m. starts)
Tue Nov 14 6:00 ­ 10:00 p.m. Quarterfinals
Wed Nov 15 6:00 ­ 10:00 p.m. Semi-finals
Thu Nov 16 7:00 ­ 10:00 p.m. Championship Match