World Champion Thierry Lincou Confirmed For 2005 Gerrard Grand Prix

Following the unprecedented success of last year's inaugural event, iSQUASHmarketing has announced that the Gerrard Grand Prix will be held at the National Squash Centre in Manchester, England, from 23-26 September 2005. The Championships will again boast a star-studded eight-man line-up, headed by World Champion, World No1 and reigning Gerrard Grand Prix Champion Thierry Lincou.

The Gerrard Grand Prix will feature two pools of four players, leading to finals which will produce a 1-8 finish. Title sponsor Gerrard Limited, one of the UK's leading investment companies, will be joined by Associate Sponsors Manchester City Council through Manchester Leisure, alongside Europe's leading squash brand Oliver.

"Thierry Lincou of France currently stands at the pinnacle of the men's game," said Tournament Director Paul Walters of iSQUASHmarketing. "It is testament to the spectacular success of last year's event that Thierry has agreed so readily to defend his title in 2005. iSQUASHmarketing, with the support of our key partners Gerrard, Manchester City Council - Manchester Leisure, Oliver and sportdiscount.com, are committed to building on the success of last year's event and we look forward to confirm the final eight-man line-up in the coming weeks."

Phillip Monks, Managing Director of Gerrard, said: "We are delighted to be involved with this high calibre tournament. Gerrard has supported British squash for a number of years and this tournament should produce exciting squash for everyone - players and spectators alike."

Jim Byrne, Head of Manchester Leisure, added: "Manchester has developed an unrivalled reputation for hosting world class events and the Gerrard Grand Prix, alongside the National Championships which have found a home in Manchester for the past eight years, play a pivotal role in showcasing the city's unrivalled squash development programme."

Bob Mitchell, Managing Director of Oliver UK, commented: "We are delighted to be involved in this unique event as Official Racket and Official Footwear sponsor. Oliver have been producing squash rackets since 1938 when Jack Oliver worked closely with the Australian national team and our involvement and support of the Gerrard Grand Prix demonstrates our increasing commitment to the sport."