Micah Franklin defeated eight-time defending champion Patrick Foster in the men’s final of the Digicel National Championships at the Bermuda Squash Racquets Club on Saturday night.

Franklin, the top-ranked men’s player in the competition, won a pulsating final 9-11, 11-6, 11-5, 6-11, 11-1.

Reflecting on his victory, Franklin said: “I’ve been dreaming about winning this title for years and I’m just so happy.”

Runa Reta triumphed over first-time finalist Rachel Barnes in an exciting women’s final to retain her title.

Reta continually pressured Barnes, who attends college in the United States, by moving her to all corners of the court, winning 11-3, 11-6, 11-2.

In the veteran’s final, Liz Martin retained her women’s title, defeating Jane Chapman 11-6, 11-7, 11-8, while Murray Brewer took his first national veteran’s title after defeating his brother, Jan, in a four-game encounter.

Foster, the men’s finalist and BSRA director, said: “It was another fantastic event for us with over 90 players taking part. I congratulate Micah, Runa and all the winners and want to thank Digicel for all their support”

In Friday’s women’s semi-finals, Reta beat Liz Martin 11-5, 11-4, 11-4, while Barnes defeated Laura Robinson 11-9, 11-3, 11-5.

Franklin, who plays on the world tour, was pushed all the way by Nick Kyme in the men’s semi-finals, prevailing 11-9, 11-8, 11-6.

Foster enjoyed a comfortable victory over Robert Maycock in the other men’s semi-final 11-3, 11-3, 12-10.

For results, page 10