The 17th Open Suffolk Veterans’ Tennis Tournament was staged over the Easter holidays at the Ipswich Sports Club Centre in Henley Road. A pleasing entry of 91 competitors from 15 counties as far apart as Scotland and Avon competed, with players enjoying the usual high standard of keen competition and comraderie.
Gary Keens was a late withdrawal, though many other defending champions performed with distinction, Elizabeth Eden (50s), Mark Sanders (55s) retaining their titles, with Elizabeth Eden also capturing the Ladies’ 40 Singles title. Jenny King and Louise Woods (40s), James Hunter and Mark Sanders (55s), and Keith Palmer and Colin Stephenson (65s) also successfully defended their Doubles titles.
Paul Hammond regained his Men’s 45 Singles title with a hard-fought victory over Rod Valentine, Brian Morgan took the Men’s 65 crown from 2010/2011 winner Mike Ellis, and Brian Brown went one better than 2011 when he overcame Gene Harris 3-6 7-5 1-0 (7) in an exhausting Men’s Singles 70 decider. Charlie Fulcher showed his Doubles prowess with victories in the Men’s 45 and Mixed 45/40 Doubles events.
The Tournament was refereed by Steve and Julie Pilcher, with assistance from Peter Mornard, Keith Palmer and Kevin Holley. Keith Flewitt, Christine Nugent and Joan Hassell once again provided invaluable organisation, and this 17th Open Tournament once again proved to be a huge success.
Click here to view the Tournament Results!!