2004 EBS Asset Management Dayton Squash Open

2004 EBS Asset Management Dayton Squash Open> Semifinals

2004 DAYTON OPEN
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Darwish Beats Abbas in Dayton
by Charlie Johnson, Jan 17, 2004,© 2004 Squashtalk

And the winner is #1 seed Karim Darwish
(Photo: © 2004, Debra Tessier).

Current world # 9 Karim Darwish of Egypt posted a 3-0 win tonight over countryman Mohammed Abbas in the championship match of the $40,000 EBS Asset Management Dayton Open. The Dayton Squash Center was packed to capacity as over 150 spectators, patrons & sponsors from throughout the midwest crowded the bleacher seating and club lounge (where there was close-circuit broadcast of the match).

Darwish started strong and although Abbas kept the first game close, every time he seemed to try to take command of a rally, Karim managed to retrieve just one more ball that forced Mohammad to make an error going for too much on the next shot. Darwish dominated the 2nd game and then in third game, which mirrored the first where Abbas kept seeming to almost break through and gain control, the large gallery kept urging Mohammed on, hoping for more squash. Abbas was gracious in defeat and the award's ceremony & after match interviews were also a pleasure for the crowd on hand.

Tonight's win, coupled with his other recent successes, may push Darwish higher in the PSA world rankings. Abbas also will benefit from his performance here in Dayton.

Many thanks also to all of our sponsors and patrons, many of whom were in attendance this evening, who helped make this event possible. With the growth of both professional and amateur squash in the Midwest, we hope to be a $50,000 5 star event next year and many of the amateur players in town for the Revenge of the Baby Boomers & Skill Level Squash Championships are already asking about patron level sponsorship for next year!

Squash in Dayton Ohio is truly cooking! Next year, come join us to "smell the aroma!"