Kershaw Cup - Manchester 2017
Kershaw Cup , 17-19 March 2017
Winner: John Prenn beat Richard Moore 6/0 6/3
The Kershaw had an entry limited by holidays, conflicting competitions and injury. However, there was enough quality to satisfy the most rigorous of observers. John Prenn comfortably overcame John Ward in the first semi-final. A topsy-turvy second semi saw Richard Moore take the first set against Ronald Paterson 6/2. Ronald then took complete command and won the second set 6/1 only for Richard to reassert himself from 3-all in the third set to win 6/3.
In the final, John Prenn cruised to a 6/0 first set lead. However, Richard, never giving up at any stage, fought to 3-all in the second set, before John finished the match in some style.
The trophy was presented by Peter Kershaw’s son Richard to a very worthy, elegant and accomplished winner.
John Prenn with Richard Kershaw
Thomas Trophy, 18-20 March 2016
Winners: Nick Pickard & James Barlow beat Norman Hyde & Ian Steele 6/2
Another keenly contested over 60s handicap doubles competition with 12 pairs participating in three round robin groups, played first to 5 game sets.
The redoubtable Norman Hyde and Ian Steele, previous winners of this event, were keen to repair their reputation after Norman had to withdraw from last year’s quarter-final through injury. They duly did so by beating two other familiar and formidable pairs in the quarter and semi-finals, Jamie Bebb/Mark Stefanowicz followed by Simon Johnston/Alan Douglas.
It was a pleasure to welcome a new pair from Hatfield, Nick Pickard and James Barlow, brother of Robin. After playing their 3 group matches, Nick had returned to his hotel to pack his bags for an early departure on Sunday morning believing there was no chance of getting through to the knock-out stage. On returning for the evening dinner, Nick and James were surprised to learn they had sneaked through by one game. Their confidence was further boosted on beating James’ brother and Andrew Mountain. Their semi-final opponents, John Prenn and Richard Moore had valiantly won their ¼ final against the new local pair John Mortimer and Martin Farnworth, 5/4 under a colossal handicap. It was too much to maintain this high level of concentration against Nick and James who won 5/3.
In the Final, Nick and James played error-free tennis to win 6/2 against Norman and Ian.
As always, it was a pleasure to welcome Carole Sweeting to the Club to present the prizes and the Mike Thomas trophy.
Remarkably, the two tournaments ran to time on the Sunday and helped to ensure everyone enjoyed a most hospitable weekend.
Nick Pickard & James Barlow with Carole Sweeting