Eastern Region Tennis
Gosling Sports Park, 6-7 May
Following an absence of over ten years, the Eastern Region tennis competition was held over two days at Gosling Sports Park, Welwyn Garden City.
As expected after a long break, there were a limited number of competitors, ten men and four women. However, plenty of tennis on indoor and outdoor courts ensured everyone had an enjoyable time.
The mens singles event was staged on a knockout basis, with losers entering the Plate. There were some hard fought matches and excellent recoveries. In the semi final Ian Halls came from 0-4 down to force a tight finish with Nick Anthony, which Nick pinched 6-4.
The final saw Nick playing Tom Arthurs of the MoD. Tom's heavier serving and pinpoint volleying caused Nick plenty of problems and Tom predictably won 6-4, 6-3.
The men's doubles event used a round robin format with Gordon Little and Nick Anthony unbeaten, winning the crucial match against Tom Arthurs and Vijay Patel. Although he was narrowly beaten, Vijay did win the award for having the biggest tennis bag, complete with the most bling!
The ladies singles proved to be a contest between experienced HMRC lady, Julie Mortimer, and Lucy Foster from Lowestoft`s jobcentre. The newcomer Lucy proved to be the stronger player and went on to win the treble, sweeping the board in the doubles with Julie and then teaming up in the mixed doubles with canny Scot, Gordon Little. Gordon's unique style was once compared to a Scottish bacon slicer - and even after retirement he still manages to bring home that bacon!
The Eastern Region's Business Development Executive, Luke Roberts, came along to present the trophies and took some photos to round off a very good couple of days. I would like to thank Luke for attending and also to CSSC for funding the event at a costly but high quality venue. Thanks to all those who competed and I hope we can get more numbers next year. A special mention must go to Lucy Foster, who was clearly player of the tournament, winning three titles.
Nick Anthony (Eastern Region Tennis Organiser)
23/05/2010
