In a final that Bathurst Panthers Squash Club vice-president Dave Fuller predicted last week, Karwalski defeated Jeff Bond in the final 11-7, 14-12, 7-11 11-9.

It was an opponent Karwalski was all to familiar with.

“I’ve played Jeff many times over the years. I think we may have played here last year,” he said.

“I grew up playing him. We’ve had a 15 year rivalry now. It’s nice to get some against him the scoreboard in the five to six years.”

In 2016, Karwalski, who is based at Lane Cove, defeated Darcy Evans in three sets. 

Karwalski said the competition was really competitive. 

“They always get a good role out, out here in Bathurst,” he said.

“Dave [Fuller] always put on a fantastic event and everyone always travels out here to support the open.”

Karwalski described the Bathurst Open as the pinnacle event of his year.

“I play this and the NSW Open most years and that’s about it, now that I’m not on the tour anymore,” he said.

“I came off the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow three years.

“So the next big thing for me will probably be the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games. I’ll go up and support the Aussie players up there next year.”

Brown was defeated in last year’s final to Northern Irish talent Madeline Perry but prevailed in five sets against local Bathurst hopeful Alisha Atkinson 12-10, 8-11, 9-11, 11-7, 13-11. 

Fuller had predicted Atkinson to make the final and she lead 2-1 after three sets. 

However, it what was a tough, close game, as Brown fought back to win 3-2 in the best-of-five sets. 

Brown, who is based at The Oaks, was delighted to claim the victory.

“It was a very good final, very tough. [Alisha] was a very tough opponent,” she said.

“I really had to work hard to win.”

She was impressed by the talent on show over the course of weekend.

“It’s always a very friendly tournament, this one. It’s not my first one. I love coming back here,” she said. 

“I’ve really enjoyed the tournament.”

Defending women’s champion Madeline Perry was unable to defend her title.