SIX-TIME former York Open squash champion Steve Hodgson is to take his first crack at the York and District Veterans' crown.

The veterans' championships spring into action at Dunnington Squash Club from Monday, January 21 through to Saturday, January 26, during which current holder Andy Tordoff will bid to retain his title.

However, he is expected to face a strong challenge from Hodgson, while Tordoff's team-mate Mark Thompson and York RI's Brian McRobbie complete the top four seedings.

The draw for Monday - 6.40pm N Clifford v K Todd, M Sellars v B Fletcher; 7.10pm B McRobbie (4) v G Rhodes, S Hodgson (2) v D Booth; 7.40pm: A Tordoff (1) v J Bailey, M Goliger v A Williams; 8.10pm: D Goddard v G Jackson, M Thompson (3) v S Broadhurst.

A plate competition will be held for first-round losers.

Meanwhile, entries are now being taken for both the York Open and Vintage Championships from Sunday, February 3 to Saturday, February 9.

The early rounds, up to and including Wednesday, February 6, will be held at York Squash Club after which the championships will move to York RI.

Entry forms for players, or an affiliated club, within a 20-mile radius of York, are now available from IT Sports York and District Squash League secretary Alison Sellars at 35 Alwyne Grove, Rawcliffe, York YO30 5RT.

The closing date is Friday, January 18 and all entrants have to include a stamped addressed envelope.

Updated: 12:11 Wednesday, January 16, 2002