Mahfood, Walters reign supreme at All-Jamaica Squash Championships

Mary Mahfood and Lewis Walters claimed victory at the 45th All-Jamaica Senior Squash Championships on Saturday, securing their titles with decisive performances at the Liguanea Club in New Kingston.

Mahfood, the women’s top seed, defeated No. 2 seed Mehar Trahan in straight sets, 13-11, 12-10, 11-2, to defend her title for a fourth consecutive year.

Walters overcame Bruce Burrowes 11-6, 11-3, 11-5 in the men’s final, winning his first championship.

Mahfood's match against Trahan drew strong support from the crowd, with both players trading shots in a tightly contested opening set. Mahfood edged the first game 13-11 before fending off a determined Trahan, who briefly led in the second. The defending champion pulled through 12-10 before dominating the third to seal victory in under 30 minutes.

"You know, this one feels exciting,” Mahfood said. “I came out here with the mindset of just having fun, and I think that's exactly what I did. I'm so impressed— as I've said previously— by the sport and how many youngsters are out here playing and really putting their best foot forward. There's so much potential, so this one just felt special. I was happy to be here.”

Mahfood praised Trahan’s performance but credited her own preparation and fitness for helping her outlast her opponents. She lost only one game throughout the tournament, winning all her matches in straight sets.

Katherine Risden secured third place in the women's draw, defeating Sanjana Nallapati 11-7, 11-7, 12-10.

The men's final saw Walters assert control early against Burrowes, who appeared fatigued after a gruelling five-set semi-final. Walters moved efficiently across the court, winning in 32 minutes.

"I played really well today," Walters said. "Bruce had a tough semi-final, and I think that played a part tonight. He was feeling the effects of last night’s match, but overall, I’m really happy with how I played this week."

Jonathan Walker claimed third place, defeating Tahjia Lumley in four sets, 11-6, 9-11, 11-7, 11-8.

Jamaica Squash Association president Karen Anderson, a 13-time national champion, said the tournament reflected the sport’s growth.

"Squash is on the rebound. We have been on a good trajectory in terms of the sport itself, crowd support, and the level of play from our players, so we're very excited about this All-Jamaica Championship. It has been very exciting,” Anderson said.

She added that Jamaica would host the Caribbean Championship in November.