Rugby Stars Support Squash Olympic Bid
Squash’s campaign to become part of the 2020 Olympic Games received a boost this weekend when England captain Chris Robshaw, along with Chris Ashton, Dan Cole, Henry Thomas, Tom Youngs, Joe Marler and Mako Vunipola showed their support for the movement.
Speaking ahead of England’s crucial Six Nations win over Italy this weekend, the player’s support follows the launch of a new online campaign to build support for the sport’s ambition to join the Olympic Games using the Twitter ID @vote4squash.
The World Squash Federation campaign has already gained the support of current and former athletes including Roger Federer, Sachin Tendulkar, Muttiah Muralitharan, Victoria Pendleton, Greg Searle, and squash legend Jahangir Khan.
WSF CEO Andrew Shelley said: ‘It’s great to have the support of members of the England Rugby team, particularly given Rugby Sevens’ success in gaining a place in the Olympic Games at Rio in 2016.’
‘We are entering a crucial few months in our campaign to join the Olympic Games Sports Programme and building online support and awareness is an important part of our campaign strategy.’
Meanwhile, England’s hopes of a first Grand Slam in a decade remain alive after scrapping past a resurgent Italy 18-11 at Twickenham. The side will now travel to Cardiff for the Six Nations decider this weekend.
