ISLAMABAD-American top squash player Todd Harrity termed his visit to Pakistan as highly successful and showed his eagerness to come Pakistan soon to feature CAS International Squash to be played in December.

Talking to The Nation before his departure to USA, Todd said: “It was amazing to play in Pakistan twice and both times, I was lucky to play final of the last year’s Chief of Air Staff International $25,000 which I lost against local lad Nasir Iqbal. But I can never forget the way the crowd responded to me, as they gave me tremendous support and all-out backing.

“When I was coming to Pakistan last year, I was a bit scared, as people told me different negative stories about Pakistan, security issues, biased refereeing and a number of other things and tried their best stopping me to travel to Pakistan, but I decided to take risk and let me share this to each and every Pakistani and international community that I feel proud of my decision to travel to Pakistan, otherwise, I could have not witnessed the great things about the locals. It was absolutely worth coming here and I am so pleased I not only played exceptional squash, but also managed to win many hearts and made a number of friends here,” he added.

He said that his stay at Serena Hotel Islamabad, which was the most luxurious hotel, was remarkable while there were absolutely no complaints about referees as well, it was all like dream come true. “Now coming back to this year’s CNS International, I had already made up my mind to travel to Pakistan, as I had great memories and I wanted to meet people once again. I must say, I wanted to play in the COAS International as well, but due to other commitments, I could not make on that event. This time too, I am returning home with sweet memories.

“I am very impressed with this tournament and I praise the organisers and sponsors for putting on a wonderful event. From the moment I arrived at the airport in Islamabad, I was very well taken care of. Everyone involved in the tournament had been very friendly and all the people I have met at the venue had been hospitable, which was really a great honour for me,” he added.

Todd said: “It was really amazing to meet the spectators of all ages, who came up and talked to me after my matches and asked for pictures and autographs. The all-glass court at the Mushaf Squash Complex is an impressive venue and wonderful facility Pakistanis have, which provides great environment to the participants. The venue was jam-packed particularly during the semis and finals. I also couldn’t forget our trip to the mall, where the PSF treated us to a nice dinner. I feel free to visit Pakistan again to play more and more squash here.”

“Lastly, I want to say a big thanks to all my well wishers, supporters, players, Pakistan Squash Federation, friends of media and especially the enthusiastic crowd. I am not enjoying the best times in squash, as I have mixed results, but as soon as I entered Pakistan, I started producing better results. I am really looking forward to make it to the December event in Islamabad,” Todd concluded.