The weather was not promising, but the whole programme was achieved, even if some of the matches were played in drizzle!
The Men's Singles Final saw a hard hitting match between Mark Whitehouse, the 2010 champion and Andy Sharp who won the title in 2003 and 2004. Mark's power hitting, immaculate length and speed around the court made for good viewing and the occasional short angled shot helped him to a 6-1 6-1 victory.
In the final of the Ladies Singles, Lucy Charlton and Emily Boden, the title holder, put on a wonderful display, which lasted almost two hours. Base line rallies dominated this match and there were several exchanges in excess of twenty shots. Lucy regained the title, which she last won in 2011, by a score of 6-4 6-3. The score belied the length and quality of the match which was watched by a good sized crowd of spectators.
After a barbecue lunch, the Men's, Ladies and Mixed Doubles were decided.
The Men's Doubles went to Adam Skalsky and Mark Whitehouse and the Mixed to Dougal Bridger and Sarah Pearson. The Ladies Doubles Final saw a good match between the singles finalists, Lucy Charlton and Emily Boden, who teamed up for this event and Hannah Ferret and Caroline Watson. Lucy and Emily were the winners.
The day was rounded off with tea and strawberries and some relief that the event had been completed in spite of the pessimistic weather forecasts.
Next year, the time given to members to sign up for the Club Open Tournament will be increased and the time over which the tournament rounds are played will also be increased. It is becoming apparent that those members entering more than one event have difficulty meeting the round dates. The vagaries of the weather, injuries, holidays and work commitments just add to the pressure, so it is hoped that these changes will make it easier for everyone.