2006 Dunlop British Open To Be Staged At Nottingham University

The 2006 Dunlop British Open, the most prestigious and longest-established event in world squash will be staged at the University of Nottingham, according to an announcement today from sports management company iSPORTmarketing. The event, which will feature the world's leading male and female players, as well as a full programme of Masters events, will take place from 14th to 18th September 2006.

"The success of the 2005 Dunlop British Open in Manchester was evidence of our commitment to working with England Squash in preparing a solid framework for the event which will see the tournament continue as the most prestigious squash championships in the world," said Paul Walters of iSPORTmarketing.

"I am determined to make this new era for the championships a huge success and I am delighted to be able to announce that the 2006 Dunlop British Open will be staged in the heart of Nottingham with the support of our title sponsor Dunlop and our hosting sponsors the University of Nottingham and Nottingham City Council," added Walters.

"The facilities and setting at the University of Nottingham are spectacular and will provide the championships with an ideal venue. The success of the 2003 and 2004 British Opens, which were both staged in Nottingham, combined with the success of last year's event in Manchester, gives me considerable confidence for next year's event. Prize levels will be increased from those of 2005 to ensure that we again attract the world's very best players and hopefully announcing the event so far in advance demonstrates our commitment and investment in the championships," said Walters.

Councillor Leon Unczur, Executive Member for Culture, Community Services & Tourism at Nottingham City Council said: "We are delighted that the Dunlop British Open Squash Championships are returning to Nottingham in 2006 and we are proud to be involved again in what is considered to be the Wimbledon equivalent event in the squash calendar. The City Council strives to provide top quality sporting events and local participation events across the year and this will add to the list for what is likely to be another exciting year of sport in Nottingham."