David Lloyd Basildon held the popular spring tournament, during the February half term week, again with a slightly increased entry. Essex players had a brilliant week, as last year, taking home all the trophies in yellow ball events and one in the mini events.
The standard of play throughout the week was excellent, as was the behaviour, which cumulated into exciting finals.
Pictured: Boys 18U finalists Nick Wade (winner) and Roland Jones
The boys 12 and under event saw some very close matches, with Toby Terrell (Theydon Bois) beating the No 1 seed Jacob Smith (Chelmsfordians) in the final. Toby is still in the 10 and under age group, a good win for him.
In the 14 and under boy’s singles, Matthew Doe (Great Baddow), the No 1 seed, retained the title he won last year, only dropping 3 games on the way.
The standard of the boys 16 and under event, was superb, with No 1 seed, Matthew Doe (Great Baddow) easing into the final. He played Demi Oni, who he beat in the 14 and under finals and after an easy 1st set, was pushed to a tie breaker in the second. Special mention must be given to Matthew Basham, who beat the No 2 seed in the 2nd round but had to retire in the next round.
Nick Wade (Cranston Park) back from injury justified his No 1 seeding and beat Roland Jones (Parklangley) in an exciting final.
Pride of place in the girls events must go Deniz Soyer (DL Gidea Park) who won the girls 14 and under and 16 and under events. In the 14 and under event, she beat Amelie Fryer (Sevenoaks TC) only losing 3 games on the way. In the 16 and under event she beat No 1 seed Lara Bakhaya (DL Raynes Park) in a close match. The 12 and under event was won by Ella Madle (Cranston Park), beating home club play Rea Learmouth in the final. In the 18 and under event Joanna Rimmington (DL Gidea Park beat the No 1 seed, Hannah Watton (Freedom Fitness) in an exciting match.
In the mini events, Nathalie Crawford (DL Southend), won the 10 and under girl’s event, beating the No 4 seed on the way. All the other mini events were won by players out of the county.
The tournament was organised and refereed by Lesley and Ian Pitt.
RESULTS