British U18 Handicap Singles Tournament
This event was held once again at Seacourt over the weekend of 15th/16th December. There was a really good entry of 41 juniors from many different clubs and the tournament got away on the Friday evening with a mini qualifying event for the very youngest competitors that had entered. This was won by Seacourt juniors Huw Thomas and Ollie Blake who went forward into the main draw.
The “B” competition was held on the Saturday for all players of 65 handicap or higher plus the two qualifiers from Friday. Four round robin groups produced semi-finalists William Flyn & Ollie Blake (Seacourt), Alfred Backhouse (Radley) & Jack Sykes (Oratory). Ollie & Jack reached the final with Ollie coming out on top with a thrilling 6-5 win. A really tremendous performance by Ollie Blake who had come all the way from through from Friday evening qualifying.
On Sunday the “A” grade section took place to find the British Junior Handicap Singles champion. Once again four round robin groups produced semi-finalists, Freddie White, Benedict Yorston (Radley), Theo Wood 9Petworth) and Oscar Wright (Petworth). In the final the prodigiously talented 12 year old Benedict took on last years winner Oscar. In an exciting final Benedict who was giving a small handicap to his older opponent managed to stay close until about half way through but then Oscar’s extra experience saw him take over to win the title for the second year in a row 8-4.
Our thanks as always go out to John Higney of Purrunna who was the generous sponsor of the event.
Paul Weaver
Director of Junior Tennis UK
Completed draws & results