A maximum field of 18 pairs challenged for this years “Mixed Doubles Championships” at Webb Ellis Road on Sunday. The weather was fairly kind on the day and the quality of tennis was very good, especially from some of the younger players o display. Amy Barnes, Katie Thomas, Harry Brignal, Gemma Trodd and Liam Victoros all gave a good account of themselves when playing against the adults.
This year’s champions were first time winners as Rachael Baker & Steve Rose saw off the strong challenges from Natalie Baker & Chris Hinds 6-3 in the semi-final and also produced a similar 6-3 win against Rebecca Thomas & Gareth Davies in the final. Rebecca & Gareth had previously beaten Cat Strickland & Chris Haynes 6-1 in their semi-final match.
The middle group final saw Peter Brinkley & Katy Outhwaite overcoming Alastair Leckie & Sue Barnes 6-4 to win this section. Earlier Duncan & Anna Grime and Nigel & Amanda Trodd had put in valiant efforts at the semi-final stage.
In the consolation group final, John & Natalie Victoros ran out comfortable winners 6-0 against Ian Capewell & Michelle Stuchbury who had expended all their energy seeing off the determined challenge of Steve & Amy Barnes in the narrowest of semi-final mathces. First timers Steve Fancourt & Sarah Springett put in a good display and were the other semi-finalists in this group.
Finally, I’d like to thank all who helped make the day a success.
Graeme Baker