tennis NEWS

Chetwood Trophy 2015

This year's Chetwood Trophy was truly the 'Year of the Youngsters'. As always, the event was a roaring success, with all the participants and their supporters having a thoroughly enjoyable weekend. The tournament saw a total of 25 entrants, from 15 different clubs, with handicaps ranging from 14 to 67. Of the 25 entrants, 6 were under the age of 21, and it was this group of players that would have the greatest impact on the Chetwood Trophy 2015. The tournament began with the Group Stage, 5 groups of 5 players would see 3 players from every group progress to the Knockout Stage. There was some fantastic tennis on show, with terrific matches in all of the groups. Rather amazingly, of the 50 group matches, only 5 had a 5-4 result! Perhaps in the shortened format, players who start their matches quickly were able to put this to good effect. Be that as it may, 15 players progressed to the Knockout Stage, and this is where we begin to see the junior players shine through. As we move to the Quarter Finals, 5 of the 8 places were filled by juniors; a fantastic statement for the future of real tennis. The Semi Final places consisted solely of juniors; Tom Lucey (Prested), Zac Ramjane (Prested), Vincent Graham (Radley) and Henry Mullan (Bristol). It was Zac Ramjane who bested his club compatriat to move onto the final where he would play Henry Mullan, a 14 handicapper who is a testament to good handicap tennis. Throughout the tournament Henry played with impeccable consistency and focus, coming through some very large handicaps indeed, including a handicap difference of 49 points! Unfortunately for Henry, it was to be Zac's day, a standout player throughout the event who's competence and ease around the court was a joy to watch. Despite Henry's best efforts, Zac emerged victorious in the final by 8 games to 3. Congratulations to Zac, Prested, and all of the players. The event was well supported throughout, particularly on the final day where most matches were played infront of a full dedans. The Chetwood Trophy is a fantastic Real Tennis event; the players and supporters certainly did themselves proud this year, we have much to look forward to in the 2016 Chetwood Trophy!