For the third year in a row, the SEKISUI Open took place in Sportpark Pilatus in Kriens, Switzerland. The tournament is made possible by its main sponsor SEKISUI CHEMICAL CO., LTD., who declared their full support from 2013 to 2020. The racquet sport requires flexibility as well as speed and brings together countless people from different countries in international tournaments – values, which are anchored also in the corporate philosophy of SEKISUI. Due to the engagement, the company reinforces the brand by also making a significant contribution for the promotion of squash in Europe.
In May this year, top squash players from around the globe competed again for 10,000$ of prize money. At almost summery temperatures the various long matches were followed by a highlight 107 minutes final between Denmark’s Kristian Frost and Tom Ford from England. Perfect conditions for Kristian, who was able to demonstrate all his skills to win his 4th title in Kriens, and his 2nd at the SEKISUI Open. The final left nothing to be desired: a comeback after being down 0-2, an injury break and thrilling long rallies. “I am so happy winning the match and the tournament. Thanks to the sponsors who made this possible,” the lucky winner announced while looking forward to next year’s tournament.
Interview with Mr. Igor Allinckx, CEO, SEKISUI Alveo AG
Q: What was the main idea behind SEKISUI Open?
A: 5 years ago, nine of the European companies got together along with SEKISUI CHEMICAL CO., LTD. and looked at ways to unify their activities and what they do have in common despite their different business structures and markets. We recognized that we all value CSR and a common brand “SEKISUI”. From the CSR side we have been actively promoting environmental activities like developing products having a positive contribution to the environment, biodiversity checks and the SEKISUI European Children’s Eco Summit. From the brand side we discussed possibilities to reinforce the brand internally as well as externally. Due to my contacts to the Swiss Squash Federation I proposed to the other European companies and our Headquarters in Japan to set up the SEKISUI Open and we agreed that this is a way to promote our brand in associating it with:
- A possible success if Squash would be included in the Olympics as SEKISUI brand would benefit from having been an “early supporter” of this discipline.
- A very healthy sport, so it contributes to people’s well-being.
- A very international approach as already with a 10,000$ prize money event you already get players from 10 to 15 different countries.
Q: What aspects do you like about squash?
A: I love the fitness needed to play, the speed of move and the tactical “chess play” needed as well as the fairness of (mostly) all players on court and outside. I enjoy the international scope (played in more than 180 countries) and the fact that many nations are represented in international tournaments.
Q: How much do you think squash deserves to be in the Olympic Games?
A: Absolutely a MUST. Squash is a sport that has all Olympic values and is neither corrupted by money nor by doping. In addition it is one of the healthiest sports.
