Dunlop, who report unprecedent growth in squash racket and ball sales in the past three quarters, celebrated the success of one it's star players. At the same time, Dunlop has signalled it will increase its investment in squash to continue its market share growth.

Fitz-Gerald, who in an illustrious career has accumulated over 33 World Tour titles, more than any other current player, including three (3) World Championships, was unable to defend her three consecutive World Championship wins in 1999 because of her injuries to her left knee. Beginning in December, she has returned to the World Tour with a vengance, determined to re-establish her prominence in the women's game.

She is unbeaten in 2000 after winning the Glidden and Greenwich Opens in the USA and then the Rosebowl Classic, England. Along the way she recorded wins over several of the world's top players including the world's number three, four, six and Britain's number two, Sue Wright.

Fitz-Gerald commented, " Dunlop have played a huge part in helping me achieve my goals over the past ten years. I am 100% committed to my rehabilitation, which has been designed to give me the best possible preparation to retaining the World Championship later in 2000. Receiving Dunlop's inaugural 'Digging Deeper Award' is a great honor, and has given me increased confidence to go forward as the new season approaches.

Fitz-Gerald returns to Europe only two (2) weeks after receiving the Victorian Institute of Sport 'Athlete of the Year' Award. Sarah will continue her training and fulfill several promotional commitments, and seeks to continue her unbeaten streak with her next tournament, the Bavarian Open, Munich, Germany from 10-16 April.

Sarah Fitz-Gerald, is a professional squash player from Melbourne, Australia. Sarah is three-times World Squash Champion and winner of thirty-three (33) Women's International Squash Player Association (WISPA) World Tour titles, making her the most successful present day player. After holding the #1 ranking position unbroken for two (2) years, Sarah underwent knee surgery in December 1998 and May 1999, returning to competition in 2000 winning the WISPA Glidden Open and Greenwich Open in the USA, and Rosebowl Classic in England. Sarah Fitz-Gerald is the current president of WISPA, and her principal equipment sponsors are Dunlop rackets and Hi-Tec shoes.

For further information, visit www.squashtalk.com/sarahfitz

or email: sarah_fitz_press@mindspring.com

5th April 2000