Men’s Singles Club Championships 2013.
This weekend saw another terrific final of Rugby LTC’s Men’s Singles Championships (The Graeme Baker Cup) During the last 3 months, 16 players have taken part in this knockout event. Early stand out matches saw Liam Victoros managing to save a match point before going on to beat Steve Rose 7-5 4-6 7-6(2) in the quarter final. Liam then had another tough battle in the semi’s before beating David Heathcote 6-2 7-5. In the other half of the draw, Marcus Powell saw off the spirited challenge from Sam Barnes 6-2 6-2 in the quarter final before overwhelming Graeme Morgan 6-2 6-1 in the semi -final. So to the final! Liam got off to a great start, taking the 1st set 6-3. Marcus responded strongly by stepping up his concentration levels and game plan which saw him racing into a 5-2 lead. However, Liam wasn’t done for and produced some great passing shots and heavy topspin at the feet of the incoming player. This enabled him to secure the vital points in a string of very close games to fight back and win 7-5. Well done for all who made this another great competitive event.
Rugby LTC Xmas American Mixed doubles.
Rugby LTC held their annual Xmas tournament this weekend with perfect numbers of 8 Ladies and 8 Men taking part. The first stage of the event saw Men and Ladies playing for their group places. Notable performances at this stage came from Lucy Eaton who won the most games overall in this her first event and from another first timer Paul Raddan on securing a place in the top group. In the “all important” Mixed Doubles stage of the event, Natalie Baker won Group 1 with a total of 16 games, one more than Claire Victoros back in second place. John Victoros captured the top male spot with 15 games, one more than Paul Raddan. In Group 2, Michelle Stuchbury and Paul Strange were both runaway winners with an impressive 17 games won. Once again, thanks to all who played and made this an enjoyable Xmas event.
By Graeme B