Squash and Serenity: An Unforgettable Weekend Getaway at a Connecticut Horse Farm

Open Squash members, get ready for an extraordinary weekend! Richard von Hirschberg, a lifelong squash enthusiast, is opening his stunning 96-acre horse farm in Connecticut for a two-day squash tournament on May 16th and 17th. This is not just a tournament; it's an experience you won't want to miss.

"I've been a lifelong squash player," Richard shares. "I've played squash since I was like 15 years old in South Africa and I've played almost continuously throughout the decades." Now, he's inviting the Open Squash community to join him for a weekend of fun.

"I always sort of dreamt of having a squash court here," Richard said, and a deal with his son-in-law led to the construction of a workshop and two squash courts. "The reason I built two was that if I have two then I can do tournaments,” he said. 

What to Expect:

• Two Days of Squash: With two indoor squash courts, the tournament will feature balanced team play to ensure "every participant in a team has a good game against their opponents." Richard notes, "We've had 5.5 level players in the top ranks before, and then it goes all the way down to the 3.0."
• More Than Just Squash: The weekend includes a Friday night dinner, Saturday lunch and dinner (cookout), and "all the booze, as well." For just $90, you'll get accommodation (for up to 21 people on a first-come, first-serve basis) as well as meals and drinks. As Richard jokingly admits, "I usually do actually go out of pocket here."
• A Saturday Night Party: Expect a big party with a cookout on Saturday night, alongside the squash. Husbands, wives and partners of squash players are also invited to the evening events.
• Horse Farm Ambiance: The farm boasts about 40 horses! "Players can certainly see them," says Richard. “By arrangement they could also rent them if they want to take a lesson."
• Meeting Fellow Enthusiasts: "I just find the people that I meet are a phenomenal bunch," Richard reflects on his years of playing squash in various locations. This weekend promises to be an excellent opportunity to connect with fellow squash lovers.

Getting There:

The farm is approximately a two-hour drive from New York City, depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can take the train to Hartford, CT, and then an Uber. "If you don't own a car, that's probably the most convenient way," Richard suggests.

Interested? Here's How to Sign Up:

To express your interest, email Open Squash co-founder James Green. 

With limited space (Richard can accommodate about 30 players given the two courts), it’s best to reach out soon. "Depending on the interest level, if I have too many, we're going to have to make a cut somewhere," Richard said, sadly. 

So don’t miss this chance to combine your love for squash with a unique countryside experience. Whether you're a seasoned player or just looking for a fun weekend getaway, Richard von Hirschberg's horse farm is the place to be on May 16th and 17th!