T&RA Annual Report 2019/20

2019/20

Annual Report

The Tennis & Rackets Association Limited

The Queen’s Club, Palliser Road, London.

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Tennis & Rackets Association Contents

The Tennis and Rackets Association: Board, Consultants & Committees

2

The Chairman’s Statement

4

The Chief Executive’s Report

The Treasurer’s Report

Benefactor Scheme & List of Benefactors

Obituaries

5

6 7

8

Tennnis & Rackets Courts around The World

14

Tennis Courts UK

16

Tennis International

19

Rackets Courts UK

20

Corporate Members, Schools, Alumni and Others

22

Front cover : Tara Lumley (Ladies World Doubles Champion, Tennis & Rackets)

Review by the Chairman of the Tennis Committee

23

We are grateful to the following photographers for their kind permission to use their photographs:

British Real Tennis Academy

28

30

Tim Edwards, Tory Wall.

Ladies Real Tennis Association

24

26

The Dedanists’ Foundation Report IiP Investing in Professionals

Junior Tennis

32

Tennis Matchplay

34

International Associations

48

Real Tennis World Rankings

51

55

Tennis Match Play Results

The T&RA thanks the Tennis Club Reports following advertisers for their The ‘David Norman Galleries’ Dinner support: Rackets Initiatives . Brown Advisory

Review by the Chairman of the Rackets Committee

84

. Sarasin

85

• Pol Roger

The Evolution of Girls’ & Ladies’ Rackets

• Tim Edwards Photography

Rackets Match Play Results

• Howard Angus

Rackets World Rankings

111

112

Rackets Match Play

58 78 82

78

Rackets Clubs & Schools

106

AGM

126

Annual Awards

128

Membership Subscription Rates from 1st July 2020 UK(£) Individual/Full Membership Rates* at date of joining 70 and over £36.50 28 - 69 £65.50 21 - 27 £39.00 Under 21 or Full Time Student and under 28 £15.50 Associate Membership Subcription Rates All ages £29.00 Affiliate subscriptions Clubs/Schools/Universities with their own courts

Clubs/Schools/Universities without their own courts Nomadic/Evening clubs (without any court facilities)

£160.00 £40.00 £80.00

*Qualifying age is taken at 1st July each year

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Tennis & Rackets Association

Patron HRH The Earl of Wessex KG GCVO ADC President D M NORMAN Vice Presidents C J HUE WILLIAMS A C LOVELL Brigadier A D MYRTLE CB CBE J A N PRENN Sir JOHN RITBLAT C J SWALLOW P G C MALLINSON A N W BEESON W J MALTBY Chief Executive and Secretary C S DAVIES The Tennis & Rackets Association, c/o The Queen’s Club, Palliser Road, London W14 9EQ (W) (020) 7835 6960 (M) 07533 418869 e: executive@tennisandrackets.com Events and general enquiries: (020) 7835 6937 e: office@tennisandrackets.com Membership: (020) 7835 6957 e: membership@tennisandrackets.com Financial Controller: e:accountant@tennisandrackets.com T&RA website: www.tennisandrackets.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/tennisandrackets Twitter: @TRA_Ltd THE BOARD Chairman D K WATSON e: david.watson55@btopenworld.com Treasurer A C POWER e: acpoweruk@gmail.com Vice President’s Representative W J MALTBY The Chairman of the Tennis Committee C VIGRASS The Chairman of the Rackets Committee J R COYNE R D SUTTON (from 1st July 2020) The Chairman of the Ladies’ Real Tennis Association Ms K J LEPPARD Elected Members M K M FARMILOE A C B GIDDINS C J FOREMAN F C SATOW

2

Tennis & Rackets Association

CONSULTANTS Director of the Young Professionals’ Programme: C S DAVIES Hon Solicitor: R PETTIT Chairman of the Investment Committee: THE HON J H M BRUCE Director of Court Development: R A DALZELL Technical Adviser: H R ANGUS National Designated Officer: Mrs H M CROSSLEY Child Protection Officer: Volunteer wanted Director of Junior Tennis: P C WEAVER, St. James House, Stamford Avenue, Hayling Island, Hants PO11 0BJ (H) (023) 9246 6130 (M) 07740 913841 e: pweaver@btopenworld.com Annual Report Co-Editors: C S DAVIES / Ms V WALL THE TENNIS COMMITTEE Chairman: C VIGRASS (M) 07774 267 335 e: chrisvigrass@gmail.com Secretary & Director of the Young Professionals’ Programme: C S DAVIES Director of Tournaments R G PATERSON

Representative of The International Real Tennis Professionals’ Association J SMITH

Chairman of The Ladies’ Real Tennis Association Ms K J LEPPARD Fixtures Secretary S FLYNN Elected Club Representatives D J SLOAN O SAUNDERS J WHITING Elected Members C LINTOTT MRS J NEWBY P M LUCK-HILLE THE RACKETS COMMITTEE Chairman: R D SUTTON from 1 July 2020 (M) 07738 090713 e: rorysutton@gmail.com Secretary & Director of the Young Professionals’ Programme: C S DAVIES Representative Members The Queen’s Club B C BOMFORD Director of Tournaments P J SUTTON Development M A BAILEY

The Public Schools’ Masters-in-Charge of Rackets C M OLIPHANT-CALLUM

Chairman of the Rackets Professionals’ Association D J MAKEY

Representative of the Rackets Professionals’ Association M J CROSBY Ladies Ms L VAN DER ZWALMEN The Under 25s L D SYMONDS Schools’ Alumni E R B HYDE UK Clubs J A BLACKBURN

Fixture Secretary T H BILLINGS

Elected Members

N J HARDING

A C B GIDDINS (Sponsorship)

3

Tennis & Rackets Association Introduction The year was definitely a game of two halves. The Autumn and early new year provided clear evidence of the encouraging participation and skill of the younger generation. There was a record entry for the Noel Bruce in Rackets and the U18, U21 & U24’s in Tennis saw talent in abundance. Sadly Covid-19 dictated a full lock down for the second half of the season and the cancellation or rescheduling of a huge programme of events ensued. Forced isolation will have reminded us all how much we value, and need, the social and physical interaction of sport. As I write this we are waiting, and pressing, for permission to carefully reopen indoor sports to allow us all to re-emerge on Court.

Our Mission Participation Membership and court hours have remained strong in most venues and I am encouraged in particular by the continuing growth in female participation and skill in Rackets. In Tennis, Clubs welcome members irrespective of age, gender and ethnicity; friendly rivalry on Court is encouraged and normal across the entire membership. Even so, we need to do more to grow awareness of both games and to promote and facilitate participation from all sections of society. A number of Schools and Clubs have evening Clubs and run sessions for local schools which allow non-members to experience a taste of these wonderful games. The T&RA has been delighted to support these initiatives. Consistent with our objectives, the T&RA typically expect commitments to open access as a condition of our financial support for new or enhanced facilities.

Facilities The key project in the year was the redevelopment of the second court at Harrow which has progressed well despite the temporary closure of the school in March. The Hyde and Manchester have signalled important plans. We have been pleased to offer them all significant financial support.

Professionals Anyone who has heard me speak, or has read my previous Chairman’s reports should know how passionate I am about the role of the professionals in our games. Pros are the heart and lungs of every facility. Their energy and enthusiasm for the game needs to inspire and encourage all they meet. Club data is clear that their skill and commitment are the single most critical determinant of financial and sporting achievement.

The Investing in Professionals initiative (IiP) - reported on by John Whiting elsewhere in this report - has benefited from the encouraging contribution from the many volunteers, both Amateur and Professional, who have given their time, knowledge and experience to help us launch this exciting initiative to replenish and re-rejuvenate the professional community.

Governance and The Board My Board colleagues and those who volunteer on our various committees and in Schools and Clubs around the country, deserve our sincere gratitude. I suspect that most, like me, would prefer to be playing the game rather than sitting around discussing their strategy and governance and so I am doubly appreciative of their willingness to help. I am also very grateful for the contributions of James Coyne who steps down after

4

David Watson Chairman

five years as Chairman of the Rackets Committee. My thanks, as always to the Office – Chris, Andrina and Olga for all that they have done to support us.

Membership Following the one-off growth in T&RA members that resulted from Universal Membership, numbers have remained fairly stable over the year and we hope that, despite three months off games, the vast majority will rush back with undimmed energy and ambition.

Tournaments We were delighted to see Tom Billings’ determination and commitment carry him through to his well-deserved World title in Rackets while Lea Van der Zwalmen continues to impress both on and off the court with her professionalism and skill. The British Real Tennis Open was won by Camden Riviere and Claire Fahey comfortably retained her ladies’ titles. *It was fortunate that most of the major events of the season were completed before March 23rd and we look forward to the rescheduling of those events that can still be played.

Sponsorship and Supporters We are extremely grateful to our major sponsors of the Elite events – Brown Advisory and the small group of patrons who finance the British Open Tennis. We are also immensely grateful to PlayBrave and Pol Roger and their generous representatives who support both games so widely. Although major commercial sponsorship of both games remains extremely challenging, the match and tournament reports across the country bear witness to the significant grass roots support provided locally by players and their associates. The curtailment of active sport will, I fear, prove highly destructive for many sporting facilities but I am hopeful that most of our Clubs and Courts will have managed to weather the storm.

If this is indeed the case, it will in large part be due to the considerable efforts of their Boards and the generosity of Club members working together to protect the careers and livelihoods of their pro teams. The T&RA have been pleased to offer support to those in real hardship and stand ready with further assistance, if required, as we move into the new normal.

Looking Forward There is now the reality of a new Court in France and good prospects in the USA and Australia. We remain hopeful that new facilities will also be built within the UK in the next decade.

In the meantime, the priority for the Association is to invest in recruitment and enhanced training for young professionals so we can fill all our Courts with noise and the love of the game.

Tennis & Rackets Association When we reflect on 2019/20, it will be hard not to focus on the latter stages of the season. Tennis and Rackets both ground to a halt, with the residue of their seasons cancelled. As we moved into an unprecedented lockdown, the T&RA assessed the risks and very quickly started looking ahead to the recovery phase.

Links were established to the government and other national associations, such as Sport England, the LTA, England Squash and Badminton England – all faced with the same dilemma.

We were also fortunate to have numerous experts within our community, both immunology and respiratory medicine.

It took time, but we did eventually work our way through the dark times to emerge on 25th July. My thanks to the two Restart Working Groups, who put much effort into formulating Safe Play guidance for both sports, as well as redesigning a somewhat flexible new season. We still wait to see how competitive play will work in a socially distanced environment.

Both seasons look remarkably different as we try to encourage everybody to play safely and to stay socially distanced – not a natural concept in our games.

There were still some exciting events. After 11 years as World Champion, Jamie Stout elected not to defend his title. This left Tom Billings and Alex Duncliffe-Vines to play for the empty crown, with Tom emerging as World Champion. The Ladies also competed for a newly established World Doubles trophy, beautifully crafted by Grays; Tara Lumley and India Deakin overcame Lea Van der Zwalmen and Luisa Gengler-Saint in a thrilling final at Wellington. Earlier in the season, DuncliffeVines had beaten Ben Cawston in Manchester, with Mike Bailey and Nick James sweeping up the doubles. Christian Portz beat Alex Titchener-Barrett to become Amateur Singles Champion, whilst Ben Cawston overcame Titchener-Barrett in the Invitation Singles. World Champion, Billings, returned to action to win the Open Singles, beating a valiant Cawston in the final; then, in partnership with Richard Owen, won the Amateur Doubles. Ben Cawston dominated the Under 21 Open, winning the singles and the doubles with partner George Harvey. Rory Giddins won the Under 24 Open, but it was Ben Cawston and partner Ed Hyde who won the doubles. At the National Schools, Freddie Bristowe won the Foster Cup to end his time at Wellington on a high. For the Ladies, Tara Lumley completed a remarkable year, winning the Open Doubles with partner Georgie Willis, then the Open Singles beating India Deakin, before partnering India to become World Champion. Lauren Gooding and Issie Thorneycroft (Wellington) retained their National Schoolgirls Doubles crown. Many thanks to Brown Advisory who sponsor the Open Championships and the National Schools, supporting both men’s and ladies’ Rackets.

It was good to see Camden Riviere back in action and playing in the UK, beating World Champion, Rob Fahey in the British Open, and partnered with John Lumley to win the doubles.

He was back in the UK in January as part of his campaign to challenge Rob Fahey for his World Title, beating Nick Howell at the Oratory and then Chris Chapman in Boston. The Challenge itself has been beaten by the Coronavirus and will now be played in May 2021, eagerly awaited by many. Rob Fahey won the Professional Singles, beating Bryn Sayers in the final at Wellington. The Under 21 and 24 Opens at MURTC were dominated by Freddie Bristowe and Rob Shenkman. Freddie Bristowe won the Under 21, Robert Shenkman the Under 24, and they combined forces to win the Under 24 doubles.

The Amateur Championships were a rerun of 12 months previous, with Jamie Douglas beating Ed Kay, and then Ed Kay and Jamie Giddins beating Jamie Douglas and Peter Wright in the Doubles. The Pol Roger Cup was played at the Oratory with RTC beating Queen’s Club 3-2, with Leamington

Chris Davies Chief Executive and Secretary beating Jesmond Dene in the Field Trophy, played at Moreton Morrell.

Seacourt triumphed over Radley at the Hyde to win the Brodie Cup. Penny Lumley won the Ladies Masters, with Claire Fahey and Tara Lumley dominating the international Opens, Cesca Sweet (Wellington) won the Under 19s; Olivia Boulton the Under 15s.

We have a new dawn in the UK, where our social environment and our perceptions have changed. It is a question of evolving both Tennis and Rackets to meet this new challenge. We have known for many years that the T&RA needs to invest in the future of its professionals and I’m pleased to report the lockdown has seen the emergence of the Investing in Professionals programme for Tennis, with a Steering Committee led by John Whiting. The challenge ahead will be to find the new candidates and then to deliver the programme.

Elements of this initiative might also incorporate young Rackets professionals. Development has also progressed with the Rackets initiative programme; last season saw more youngsters playing regularly at Queen’s in the Mjolnirs-style.

Next season will see an extended outreach programme along with the re-establishment of the Development Squads; Mike Bailey has moved a few mountains to date. The primary aim is to keep school-leavers and recent university graduates playing, while giving the opportunity to improve their game.

These programmes are for men and ladies alike. A new ladies’ ranking system was developed during lockdown, with the next phase to codify the ladies World Championship Challenge, providing more objectivity and expanding the ever-growing horizons of ladies Rackets.

The T&RA has also continued to support Court Development, providing grants to Eton, the Hyde, Moreton Morrell and Manchester. Richard Dalzell continues his programme to encourage new court development and revitalising the resource material. The Tennis Court Lite project has also reached a point with a costed standalone court project on the drawing board.

Finally, the intention is to redevelop the aging Real Tennis Online software, taking the source code and bringing in into the 2020s. This would permit far easier development of new applications using open source architecture. This is no small task and I am grateful for the support of many to develop this requirement.

The core team is small; Membership Secretary, Andrina, now back in the office; Financial Controller, Olga, and Annual Report co-editor, Tory, both working remotely. There is much to do; not only the Trustees and both Games Committees, but those who give their valuable time running events and numerous other volunteers who make the games happen. Farewell to James Coyne, Rackets Committee Chairman for the last five years, serving on the Committee for ten years before that! Welcome to Rory Sutton who takes over this key role. I have been saddened by the loss of Simon Kverndal, not only a great supporter of both games, but also the Amateur Status Chairman for many years; Robin Hollington has stepped up to this important role.

There is much to do with equipment development (Howard Angus) safety and child protection. Please let me know if you have any ideas, perhaps promoting the games on social media.

No job is too small and no idea is unimportant.

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Tennis & Rackets Association

Andrew Power Treasurer

As in previous years, a simplified Statement of Financial Activities is incorporated. I have set out below the objectives we have established for managing our financial affairs: Regular expenditure: Our subscription income aims to cover the running cost of the T&RA, including upgrades to our IT systems Tournaments: The costs of tournaments should be covered by tournament income, sponsorship and donations for tournaments Development and Investments: Development expenditures support the hiring and training of professionals and the building and refurbishment of courts and related facilities. These expenditures are covered by grants and donations. Grants are generally funded out of interest and dividends earned on our investment portfolios, which were valued at £2.42million at 30th June 2020, and at times by drawing capital from our four investment portfolios since the demand for building and refurbishments of courts varies significantly from year to year.

In the current financial year ended June 30 2020, net income showed an excess of expenditure over income of £22k, which was a significant reversal from the £80.5k net income reported in 2018/19. This was due to the major investments the T&RA has made, or has authorised, for court refurbishments and for the training and development of young professionals.

Regular expenditure: Regular income was £17.8k lower than regular outgoings. This reflects the fact that subscription income was flat, with membership levels the same as the previous year and no increase in the annual subscriptions while expenditure increased slightly due to higher office staffing levels Tournaments: Total income related to tournaments, which includes sponsorship and donations, exceeded tournament costs by £19.2k, compared to £20.5k the previous year.

Tournament income and expenditure this year was not materially affected by Covid-19 since lockdown occurred so late in the playing season Development: A deficit of £71.9k was recorded in 2019/20 compared to a £6.1k surplus the previous year. In 2019/20 a record of £123.8k in grants were authorised, compared to £44.4k the previous year. This included £94.7k for court development, £22.7k for professional training and recruitment, and £9k to encourage participation in the two games. The main grants authorised for court development this year were to Eton, Hyde, Manchester and Moreton Morrell. Given the T&RA’s strategic priorities, we increased expenditure on professional training and recruitment to £22.7k in 2019/20 from £2.9k in 2018/19.

Investments: Interest and dividends of £48.4k were marginally lower than last year, reflecting a continued low interest environment and dividend cuts by many companies. Compared to the previous year’s strong investment performance (a gain

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of £75.1k) our investment portfolios incurred capital losses of £96.4k (realised and unrealised), reflecting the decline in stock markets in the first quarter of 2020. While there was a significant bounce back in stock markets in the second quarter of 2020 this was not enough to erase quarter one losses. As part of good governance practices, we undertook a review of our investment manager and as a result decided to switch the management of our investment portfolios from Smith & Williamson to Brown Advisory and Sarasin.

Over the coming year we are projecting a very similar level of net income, namely a small loss. We intend continued investment in development, especially in professionals training and recruitment, and the redevelopment and enhancement of RTO. Regular expenditure: Outgoings are projected to exceed income by £34k, compared to £17.8k this year. The increase is due to plans to strengthen the functionality of RTO Tournaments: The surplus will fall to £15k from £19.2k as we anticipate a lower level of donations Development: Development will reduce somewhat to a £33k deficit (from a £71.9k deficit). We plan to still invest significantly in grants at £80k, especially in professional development, although that level will be down from the record levels authorised this year. This reflects the episodic nature of court refurbishments Investments: Interest and dividends are projected to be £36k, lower than this year as many companies have cut their dividends and interest rates remain low Simplified Statement of Financial Activities £000s Year End

Year End

30-Jun-20

30-Jun-19

82.0

96.3

164.8

164.3

Advertising in Annual Report

3.7

4.2

Other Income

7.5

7.4

-0.8

-11.4

3.9

2.7

Charitable Donations ( including gift aid) Charitable Activities Membership subscriptions ( including gift aid)

Amateur Tournaments (net) Sales of ball cloth, rackets balls, etc. ( net) Grants ( including TRACS)

-123.8

-44.4

Staff & Related Costs

-140.6

-129.5

Communications & IT

-23.5

-27.3

Other adminstrative costs

-26.6

-24.9

Allocation to Trading Activities Net charitable activities

11.8

15.6

-123.6

-43.3

Trading Activities Sponsorship

21.0

21.0

Non-Charitable Donations

33.0

28.0

Professional tournaments ( net)

-51.0

-42.3

Allocation of support costs

-11.8

-15.6

Net trading activities

-8.8

-9.0

Investment income less managers' fees

28.5

36.6

-22.0

80.5

Total income

Tennis & Rackets Association

T

he T&RA Benefactor Scheme was established in 2013 by our then Chairman, William Maltby. Since that time almost ninety T&RA members have volunteered to make additional contributions in excess of the normal Annual Subscription as part of the Benefactor Scheme. We are always in search of enthusiastic and generous donors and sponsors who, like us are passionate about the games of Tennis and Rackets and wish to help ensure their existence and development for future generations.

Need for Money The T&RA finances are in a reasonable state and have been managed to cover routine expenditure out of regular annual revenue sources. The Association faces a real risk that it will not have the resources to meet the large but frequent requests it receives to provide more structural support to our games. These typically fall into two areas: Development of new and restoration and repair of existing Courts Recruitment and training of Professionals.

The generosity of historic donors and Benefactors has allowed the Association to make significant contributions to both new build (Wellington/Tonbridge) and repair/improvement projects (too numerous to mention individually!) that have greatly enhanced the playing opportunities and experience for our members in many different parts of the country. We have been able to support new LED lighting projects across much of the UK estate and are presently considering requests from two venues for significant structural repairs. These challenges and opportunities will keep coming…

Equally importantly, it is critical that we enjoy the support and capabilities of a skilled and inspirational set of professionals able to draw new players into our games and inspire both young and old to greater heights of play. Both games are suffering from an ageing professional profile and a serious shortage of young professionals which, if not addressed urgently, will leave many Clubs and Schools without a suitably equipped professional team able to teach to a high level and to support the courts’ economic operation. With your support, we are financing programmes in both games to subsidise the training of young professionals so that the next generation can be as fortunate as many of us have been to be taught and inspired by great coaches and players.

Benefactor Benefits The benefits of becoming a Benefactor include all the regular benefits of being a member of the T&RA together with upfront recognition in the Annual Report and on the website; a Chairman’s update report summarising the pipeline of major projects and the T&RA’s support for them; and an annual Benefactors’ Cocktail Party - typically around the time of the Brown Advisory British Open Rackets Doubles in March. In addition, you will receive the Benefactor’s tie, or brooch for the ladies, on joining. Becoming a Benefactor is a wonderful way to contribute to the future prosperity of our games that have given us so much pleasure over the years. I very much hope that you will join me in supporting this initiative.

If you are a higher rate taxpayer, you will be able to claim gift aid on your payments other than in your first year as a Benefactor where, due to the gift of a tie or brooch on joining the scheme, your benefits exceed the HMRC allowance.

If you are willing to become a Benefactor and contribute a minimum of £300 per annum (including your annual subscription), contact Andrina Webb, Membership Secretary, at the T&RA’s office at Queen’s. Many thanks again for your kind and generous support.

T&RA BENEFACTORS Mike Allaway Zandy Anton Robert Appleby Tayt Baldwin Clive Barnes Andrew Beeson David Brazier Con Bridgeman Michael Brooks Nicholas Browne James Bruce George Calvocoressi Paul Cattermull Tim Cockroft James Coyne Richard Dalzell Nick Danby Jean De Pourtales Graham Defries Dominic Delaforce Justin Dowley Charles D’Oyly Charlie Foreman

David Fortune Tony Friend Alan Giddins David Godfray Christopher Green Christopher Griffith-Jones Sir Andrew Hamilton Nick Harding Brendan Hegarty Alex Hoare Christopher Hopton Lord Anthony Hothfield Michael Hough Charles Hue Williams Mark Hue Williams Nigel Hurst Brown Quintin Ings-Chambers Adam Inselbuch John Kemp-Welch Mark Landau Michael Lingens Alan Lovell Peter Luck-Hille

Richard MacAlister Peter Mallinson William Maltby Simon Mansfield Christie Marrian Alastair Maxwell Patrick Maxwell Tim Maxwell James McDermott John McVittie Ben Mekie Tim Milligan David Mills Stephen Morant Sir Geoffrey Mulcahy Paul Nicholls David Norman Colm O’Shea Ronald Paterson Giles Pemberton Deane Pennick Richard Pettit Roger Pilgrim

Tim Pilkington John Prenn Gareth Quarry Mark Rayner Sir John Ritblat Lesley Ronaldson Fred Satow John Shneerson Carl Snitcher Lord John Suffield Charles Swallow Chris Swan Jamie Turner Chris Vigrass David Watkins David Watson Bernard Weatherill Jill Whitehouse John Whiting Forman Wickes Willie Wilks Gordon Woodman

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Obituaries Simon Kverndal June 2020

Simon Kverndal QC, a great friend of Real Tennis and Rackets, passed away, far too young at 62, on Sunday 14th June, peacefully, and surrounded by his immediate family. Simon lived with his long illness and fought it courageously; he also bore his affliction with discretion and with cheerfulness.

Until very recently, he kept the awareness of the illness from which he had been suffering for more than two years from all but a few, and even then he was always upbeat and cheerful. For Simon, his chemotherapy clinic was a “cocktail lounge”.

Though in many ways a typical English gentleman, he was ultimately of Norwegian heritage. His family were part of the shipping industry for several generations, and one branch had come to England and settled here in the 19th century. But he remained proud of his Norwegian roots. Most summers he went with his family to the lakeside cabin in Norway.

From Haileybury, Simon went up to Sidney Sussex College, where he read History & Law. During his four years at Cambridge (1977-1981), he represented the University at both Rackets and Real Tennis, captaining the Real Tennis side for two years and earning a Half-Blue.

Upon graduating from Cambridge, he joined Quadrant Chambers in 1984, subsequently becoming incredibly well-renowned in maritime litigation and arbitration. Having read through some

8

tributes from his colleagues, not only was Simon’s expertise and efficiency valued, but his energetic and caring character was clearly treasured by those who worked with him.

Outside his profession, he was a great lover of Rackets. Not only a well-respected player, he supported the game in numerous ways - serving on many committees, whilst also being the President of Cambridge University Rackets Club (CURC) for six years. During this time, Simon’s contribution to CURC was considerable. From turning up to annual dinners armed with bottles of vintage port and highly amusing stories, to making his presence felt in the viewing gallery at Varsity Matches – his company was always eagerly anticipated.

During the 2019/20 season, he attended both the Alumni and Varsity Matches at Queen’s, proudly wearing his Hawks’ tie. As usual, Simon’s passion for Rackets and CURC was palpable, eager to get to know and catch up with the Cambridge team, whilst offering some vocal support to the Light Blues from the gallery. This was all despite being in the middle of chemotherapy treatment – you would never have guessed.

Simon was a member of many clubs: Hawks, Queen’s Club, the MCC, the Jesters, a T&RA Benefactor, the Garrick and the Honourable Company of Shipwrights. These highlight his sporting prowess.

The Garrick and the Shipwrights were places where

Obituaries he could use his enormous talent for friendship, for bonhomie without superficiality, for wide-ranging conversation and for charm at all times. It was a matter of great pride to him that he had become Prime Warden of the Shipwrights this year, and it is sad indeed that he was unable to complete his term of office.

He was well-known for his real expertise in matters of wine. He had a half-blue for wine-tasting as well as a blue for Real Tennis. He served on the wine committees of the Garrick, the Shipwrights and of the Middle Temple where he was a Bencher.

Simon was a serious professional; a hardworking and popular silk. Having always been a diligent and hard working advocate, he had become a very effective arbitrator, renowned for his pleasantness

and efficiency and, an unusual gift, for getting the right answer. Relatively recently he had started to act as mediator and his personal qualities were generating a rapidly growing and enthusiastic following.

This was a full life indeed. For all his love of wine, music, friends, sport and conviviality, Simon’s chief interest and concern at all times was his family. Noone who knew him could doubt that the centre of his focus was Sophie, along with his two sons, Thor and Finn. We all share in their sad loss.

Simon’s infectious enthusiasm, liveliness and generosity will be sorely missed by all those who had the pleasure of meeting him. Our thoughts are with Sophie, Finn and Thor at this sad time.

Anthony Wilson May 2020 It is with great sadness that the T&RA announces the passing of Anthony Wilson, a special friend to many in our games. Anthony will be sorely missed by the T&RA and his many associates at the Queen's Club.

Anthony took up the game at an early age as his father Peter was a keen player, continuing to participate until recently when his illness finally made him hang up his racquet.

A cunning player with a great eye for the ball, Anthony was a delight to play with, always courteous to his partners no matter how badly they played. A frequent competitor with his son Chris in Fathers and Sons tournaments and club events, in later years Anthony would solidly protect the first gallery leaving Chris to energetically cover the rest of the court.

A long career in banking included 16 years in North America during which Anthony made many good friendships amongst the Court Tennis community – connections that underpinned very successful Pigeons international tours to the USA in 1998, 2005 and 2010, each two weeks long, where every effort was made by the hosts to entertain the Pigeons with lavish social functions in New York (a very rare dinner in the library of the R&T Club), Tuxedo, Philadelphia and elsewhere, as well as a tour to Australia. Over the years Anthony accumulated a vast number of shirts and ties, from every club in the world where he had played.

Our heartfelt condolences to his wife, Sarah, and his family, Chris and Caroline.

9

Obituaries Raymond Lacharme August 2019

We regret to announce the death of the following members since the last Annual Report Thomas Greevy Robin Murray-Philipson

Louis K. Habina September 2019 We are saddened to announce the death of one of our oldest T&RA Life Members. Raymond Lacharme, born 14 November 1924, passed away 01 August 2019.

Raymond took part in all overseas playing trips in the 70’, 80’s and 90’s. The USA summits in Tuxedo, New York, Philadelphia and Boston with the Savile Club in 1981 were memorable.

He answered all calls of help in the UK and often became a member of the clubs in need.

All players of UK clubs became his friends.

He was in Bordeaux, Rue Rolland and in Merignac at the permanent service of our club even when it came to repairing a heater or changing a light bulb. Raymond was passionate about music and produced an American band on the court of Bordeaux in memory of the bicentenary of the French Revolution.

We will not forget he lodged a number of players and professionals in his own home, his house becoming an annex of the club. His intense implication contributed to the reopening of Fontainebleau. He leaves his print on the floors and takes a big part in the history of the game in the 20th century.

We will not forget his charm and smile, our thoughts are with his family and friends.

10

We are saddened to share the news of the passing of Louis K. Habina, a long-time supporter of NARA and the game of Rackets.

Affectionately known as “The Fork", Lou was a member of the Racquet Club of Philadelphia and a fixture on the Rackets tour. Lou was tragically the victim of a car accident and will be greatly missed by the Rackets community on both sides of the Atlantic.

Obituaries Elihu Inselbuch August 2019 A lifelong New York City resident, Elihu Inselbuch died peacefully at his summer home on Shelter Island, NY on August 15, 2019. He was 81. Elihu is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years Harriet, his sons Adam Inselbuch (Kathryn) of Chicago, Frank Inselbuch (Lenora) of Houston, TX and daughter Jessica Malasek (Jan) of Charlottesville, VA, as well as his grandchildren Jacob and Jamison Malasek and Ilana and Isaac Inselbuch.

A renowned attorney of extraordinary intellect and integrity, Elihu practised law for 55 years, the last 32 at Caplin & Drysdale, where he had a distinguished career focused on complex litigation, including asbestos creditors' rights litigation and commercial and securities fraud litigation. He was the head of the firm's bankruptcy and complex litigation groups and he served for many years as Co-Chair of the firm. Beginning in 1985, when he was first retained to represent the Asbestos Claimants' Committee in the Johns-Manville Corp. reorganization, Elihu worked closely with the asbestos plaintiffs' bar and was involved in virtually every asbestos-related bankruptcy, representing asbestos claimants' committees during the bankruptcies and then the trust advisory committees created following the bankruptcies. Throughout his career, Elihu was frequently sought after as a panelist or speaker at conferences across the country. He appeared before many state and federal courts, the United States Senate, the Watergate Special Prosecutor and the U.S. Supreme Court.

Elihu was born in New York City on May 12, 1938, the son of Samson Inselbuch and Frada ("Sunny"), nee Cohan, grew up in Brooklyn, NY, attended Midwood High School (1955), Princeton University (1959), Columbia Law School (1962) and NYU School of Law (1965). At Princeton, Elihu was a saber fencer on an Ivy League Championship team and was music director of the Triangle Club. He served as a private in the US Army and as a second lieutenant in the US Navy. After his military service, he began his legal career at ASCAP. He joined the firm of Gilbert, Segall & Young in 1966 and became a partner there in 1969. He moved to Caplin & Drysdale in 1986, where he practised until his retirement in March 2018. Elihu was an active volunteer for Princeton: he interviewed prospective students in New York City and Mamaroneck, NY; served as both treasurer and president of his class; and was Chairman of the Alumni Council (1993-1995).

Elihu was an avid player and supporter of the game of Rackets, playing at the Racquet & Tennis Club where he was a member for 45 years. Together with Neil Smith he won the Western Open Racquets Doubles Championship in 1994. Elihu was also an accomplished pianist and trumpeter. He pursued his love of music his entire life. In high school, he was the first trumpet in the New York All-City Orchestra. Later in life, he was an active member of the Century Association and the Digressionists.

Elihu was an accomplished sailor and was a member for many years of the Indian Harbor Yacht Club in Greenwich, CT and of the Shelter Island Yacht Club. Elihu will be remembered for his enormous professional accomplishments, his towering intellect, integrity and irreverent sense of humour.

11

Obituaries Giles Myrtle September 2019 The T&RA is saddened to pass on the news that Giles Myrtle died peacefully at home aged 91 on 25 September.

He won the Public School Doubles Championship with H E Webb for Winchester in 1944 and 1945.

Richard Gracey December 2019 We are saddened to share the news of the passing of Richard M K Gracey; Richard died peacefully on Tuesday December 3rd.

Richard was a great Old Tonbridgian, being a key member of the OT Cricketer Cup XI that won the trophy so many times in its formative years. He was also a fine Rackets player, especially in tandem with John Thompson and then Martin Smith. Further, Richard was headmaster of Hilden Grange, which supplied a large number of boys as one of Tonbridge's primary feeder prep schools.

Richard was a serial winner and the Rackets court during the 50s, 60s and early 70s.

Noel Bruce Cup 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959 & 1961 (with JR Thompson) 1969 – 1975 (with MGM Smith).

Amateur Doubles Champions (with MGM Smith) 1964, 1965, 1969, 1970 & 1971

Arthur B. Whitcomb May 2020

12

NARA are saddened to report the recent passing of Arthur B. Whitcomb, Jr. Arthur was an enthusiastic Rackets player and a tremendous supporter of our game. He will be sorely missed both on the court and in the gallery. We extend our sincere condolences to his wife, Gail, and his entire family.

The T&RA join our North American brethren in extending our profound sympathy.

Obituaries Paul Wheeler March 2020

It is with sadness that I inform you that Paul Wheeler, a past President and Honorary Life Member of the RMTC, passed away on Friday 6 March 2020.

Paul became a member of the RMTC in 1971 during the final phase of the Club at Exhibition St, and in 1975 he served on the first Committee after the Club moved to Richmond.

Paul was intimately engaged in Real Tennis and the Club and contributing to both were distinctive features of Paul’s membership over nearly five decades.

In 1978, Paul was a member of the touring side from RMTC that played on all the courts around the world – a Real Tennis odyssey.

Paul was the RMTC President from 1982 to 1985 and he was also Chairman of ARTA – the Australian Real Tennis Association - from 1998 to 2005.

Over the decades Paul was a multiple winner of many major tournaments, including Masters World Championships in different age divisions.

We will remember Paul as a fine Real Tennis player and an outstanding contributor to Tennis at RMTC, in Australia and the world. But much more so for many of us at RMTC and across the real tennis world, we will remember Paul as a fine person who was considerate of others and a good friend.

Charles Lawrence Wade July 2020 It is with great sorrow that we announce Charles Wade died peacefully in his sleep at home Friday night after a long illness aged 83. Charles was a lifelong member of Leamington, a past Captain of Tennis and President of the Club. He had been a member for 64 years during which time his contribution to the Club and to Real Tennis was immense; he will be profoundly missed.

As part of its sesqui-centenary celebrations twenty four years ago, the Club commissioned Charles to write ‘The History of The Leamington Tennis Court Club 1846-1996’ and, in the publication, Charles’s minibiography was as follows: ‘Charles Wade joined the Leamington Tennis Court Club in 1956, following in the footsteps of his father, grandfather and great-uncle. His younger brother Ian is also a member of the club. He is an enthusiastic player and past winner of the Pro-Am Tournament and the Scottish Amateur Doubles Championship but he attributes these successes to the quality of his partners. He entered the Amateur Singles Championships three or four times in the early 1970s and admits he was little more than ‘cannon-fodder’. His other successes on court have been in club handicap events.

Charles Wade was a public relations consultant and writer. He married his wife Liz in 1966 and they have two daughters. In addition to Real Tennis, his other enthusiasms are golf and skiing. At one time he had political ambitions and stood twice for Parliament as a Conservative candidate. He was a member of the club’s committee and captain of Tennis for over twenty years. In that time he organised a large number of national and domestic tournaments. He has also served on the T&RA Council since 1975. One of his most important and lasting achievements in Real Tennis was the invention of the handicapping system which has now been adopted worldwide.’

We extend our deepest sympathies to Charles’ widow, Liz, and their daughters, Lucinda and Sophie. .

13

International

AUSTRALIA

OVERSEAS TOURS AND LETTERS OF INTRODUCTION United Kingdom Tennis and Rackets Clubs or individuals who wish to take touring teams to Australia, Canada, France or the USA are asked to inform the T&RA Chief Executive BEFORE they contact the relevant governing body or the overseas clubs. This avoids embarrassment should several groups be planning a visit at the same time. The Chief Executive will also provide letters of introduction for United Kingdom players travelling overseas.

Ballarat The Ballarat Tennis Club (T) +61 (3) 5333 5755 1 Tennis Court 388 Larter Street, Ballarat, Victoria 3350 e: pro@ballarattennisclub.com.au Professional: Andrew Fowler (Head) www.ballarattennisclub.com.au President: Robert Jolly (T) +61 401 856 797

Hobart The Hobart Real Tennis Club (T) +61 (3) 6231 1781 1 Tennis Court 45 Davey Street e: pro@hobarttennis.com.au Hobart, Tasmania 7000 Professional: Brett McFarlane www.hobarttennis.com.au Melbourne The Royal Melbourne Tennis Club (T) +61 (3) 9429 8744 (F) +61 (3) 9428 3280 2 Tennis Courts 18 Sherwood Street e: admin@rmtc.com.au

Richmond, Victoria 3121 Professionals: Frank Filippelli (Head), Jonathan Howell (Deputy Head), Kate Leeming (Part-time) John Woods Casey (Pro) e: pros@rmtc.com.au Romsey The Royal Tennis Court 1 Tennis Court 160 Glenfera Road Romsey Victoria 3434 FRANCE Fontainebleau Jeu de Paume (M )+33 (0) 616 555 189 1 Tennis Court Chateau de Fontainebleau, Professional: Guillaume Dortu 77300, Fontainebleau e: info@paume-fontainebleau.com France President: Thierry Bernard Tambour facebook: cercledujeudepaumedefontainebleau Paris Club du Jeu de Paume (T) +33 (1) 47 27 46 86 1 Tennis Court de Paris President: Julian Nebenzahl 74 Rue Lauriston, Professional: Mr Rod McNaughton 75116, Paris e: parispros@hotmail.fr France www.squashjeudepaume.jcom Pau Jeu de Paume de Navarre President: Simon Berry 1 Tennis Parc Beaumont, e: jeudepaumenavarre.secretaire@gmail.com and Pau e: simon.berry@fft.fr Trinquet Court France

Biarritz St Martin de Biarritz President: Stephane Duhau 1 Trinquet Court 23 Ave Pasteur Association President: Cecile Alchuteguy 64200 Biarritz e: euskalrealtennis@gmail.com

France (T) +33 (0) 67 69 47 413 +33 (0) 62 55 34 243

14

La Bastide Clairence Maison Forgues President: Ghislaine Potentier 1 Trinquet Court Place des Arceaux e: jeudepaume.bastida@yahoo.com

64240 La Bastide Clairence (T) +33 (0) 67 22 93 269 +33 (0) 67 23 16 106 France

Bordeaux 107 Avenue Marcel Dassault President: Paul van der Linden 33700 Merignac e: paume.bordeaux@gmail.com

France (T) +33 (0) 556 344 194 (M) +33 (0) 685 090 399 www.jeudepaumebordeaux.fr

CANADA Montreal The Montreal Racket Club (T) +1 (514) 849 3697 www.montrealracketclub.org 1 Rackets Court 396 rue Concorde NARA Club Representative: Michael McLernon

Montreal, Quebec H3A 1J2 e: mike.mclernon@colliers.com

Head Professional: Dan Fischer e:mrcproshop@gmail.com USA Aiken The Aiken Tennis Club (T) +1 (803) 648 2152 (after 5pm) South Carolina PO Box 84, 146 Newberry Street SW USCTA Representative: Milton Carothers 1 Tennis Court Aiken, South Carolina President: Michael Sullivan 29802 Professional: Trey Bogue e: aikentennisclub@gmail.com Boston The Tennis and Racquet Club (T) +1 (617) 536 4630 (F) +1 (617) 247 1978 www.tandr.org Massachusetts 939 Boylston Street USCTA Representative: Arthur Drane (T) +1 (617) 291 7730 e: adrane@usps.gov 1 Tennis Court, Boston, Massachusetts NARA Club Representative: Lucas Walsh 1 Rackets Court 02115 (T) +1 (617) 216 6148 e: walsh.lucas@gmail.com Head Professional: Tony Hollins e: tony.hollins@tandr.org

Chicago The Racquet Club of Chicago (T) +1 (312) 787 3200 (F) +1 (312) 787 3207 2 Rackets Courts 1365 North Dearborn Parkway e: pros@racquetclubchicago.org 1 Tennis Court Chicago, Illinois USCTA Representative: Johnathan Lewis 60610 NARA Club Representative: Baker Thompson e: r.baker.thompson@gmail.com

Professionals: John Cashman (Head), Steve Virgona, Conor Medlow Detroit The Detroit Racquet Club Michigan 626 East Woodbridge 1 Rackets Court Detroit, Michigan

48226

Lakewood Georgian Court University New Jersey 990 Lakewood Avenue, 1 Tennis Court Lakewood, New Jersey 1 Rackets Court* 08701

Manager: Glenn Rivers e: glenn.rivers@gmail.com (T) +1 (313) 568 0432 e: drc1902@yahoo.com www.drc1902.com NARA Club Representative: Norb Madison e: nbmadison@sbcglobal.net Rackets Professional: Steve Toseland e: stevetoseland@drc1902.com www.gcrealtennis.org USCTA Representative: Richard Moroscak, Jr Schuyler Wickes e: swickes@gcrealtennis.org (M) +1 (610) 212 4301 Gary Barnes e: gbarnes@gcrealtennis.org * Rackets Court out of use

Manhasset The Greentree Court, All enquiries to USCTA Representative: Peter Di Bonaventura, Long Island Manhasset, New York (private court) 212 Sport Hill Road, Easton, CT 06612 e: racintoday@aol.com 1 Tennis Court Newport The National Tennis Club www.nationaltennisclub.org (T) +1 (401) 849 6672 Rhode Island 194 Bellevue Avenue, USCTA Representative: Brenda Sabbag 1 Tennis Court Newport, Rhode Island Head Professional: Mike Gooding e: NTCpros@tennisfame.com

New York Racquet and Tennis Club (T) +1 (212) 753 9700 (F) +1 (212) 980 7180 New York 370 Park Avenue, USCTA Representatives: Peter Pell, Zach Sacks, Ben Stein, Dan Laukitis 2 Tennis Courts New York, New York e: ppell@csmcapitalcorp.com laukitis@gmail.com 1 Rackets Court 10022 NARA Club Representative: Jonathan Larken e: jlarken@hotmail.com Professionals: James Stout (Head)

Barney Tanfield , Neil Smith , Adrian Kemp, Josh Dodgson (T) +1 (212) 753 9727 e : tennis@rtcny.org

Philadelphia The Racquet Club of Philadelphia (T) +1 (215) 735 1525 (F) +1 (215) 735 4805 Pennsylvania 215 South 16th Street, USCTA Representative: Peter Vogt 1 Tennis Court Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

1 Rackets Court 19102 NARA Club Representative: Jeff Yager e: jyager@salientpartners.com (T) +1 (212) 300 3442 Professionals: Robert Whitehouse (Head), John Lumley (Asst) (T) +1 (215) 772 1544 e: courts@rcop.com Tuxedo Park The Tuxedo Club (T) +1 (845) 351 4791 www.thetuxedoclub.org New York Tuxedo Park, Tennis House (T) +1 (845) 351 7345 (F) +1 (845) 351 7309 1 Tennis Court, New York USCTA Representatives: Xanthe Ranger e: xanthe.ranger@gmail.com 1 Rackets Court 10987 Club Representative: Josh Scherer e: scherer.joshua@gmail.com NARA Club Representative: Guy Devereux e: guy.devereux@yahoo.com Head Professionals: Tim Chisholm e: tchisholm@thetuxedoclub.org, Assistant Professionals: Leon Smart, Marie Alexandre Leduc

Washington DC The International Tennis Club of Washington (T) +1 (703) 556 8801 e: pros@princescourt.com Virginia Prince’s Court, Mclean Sport & Health Head Professional: Ivan Ronaldson, 1 Tennis Court 1800 Old Meadow Road, www.princescourt.com Mclean, Virginia 22102

15

TENNIS UK

Court

Address and telephone number

Hon Sec (S) Fixture Sec (F)

Professional(s) (PT = part-time)

Bristol Real Tennis Club Clifton College Playing Fields, Mr P Moss (S) K King (PT) Abbots Leigh Road, Bristol BS8 3QD B Coleman

(T) (0117) 973 3444

e: email@bristolrealtennisclub.org.uk (T) (0117) 971 1418

www.bristolrealtennisclub.com e: phjamoss@outlook.com Stuart Andrews (F) e: stujohnandrews@yahoo.com Cambridge University Grange Road, Gillian Moore (S) K Ludekens (Head Pro) Real Tennis Club Cambridge CB3 9DJ Christine Marrian (F) P Paterson (Assistant Pro) (2 Courts) (T) (01223) 357106 e: curtc.fixtures@gmail.com As for court www.curtc.net e: pros@curtc.net

Canford School Wimborne Minster, Dorset S J Ronaldson (F) S J Ronaldson (Head Pro)

BH21 3AD As for Professional 48 Oakley Lane, Canford Magna (T) (01202) 881232 Wimborne, Dorset BH21 3AB

e: steve.ronaldson@talk21.com D Neill (S) (H) (01202) 883520 Master-in-Charge (M) 07973 757671

www.canfordtennisclub.co.uk c/o Canford School Canford Magna, Wimborne Dorset BH21 3AD (T) (01202) 847505 J Ryan (Assistant Pro) e: dn@canford.com e: jrar@canford.com Falkland Palace Royal Falkland Palace Tennis Court Ewan Lee (S ) Tennis Club Falkland, Fife KY15 7BU Lawview, Strathallan, Forgandenny, Perthshire.

PH2 9EG (M) 07514 672697 e: ewanslee@gmail.com Hardwick House Whitchurch, Reading, Chantelle Harding (S) Berks RG8 7RB Stow House, Thames Road,

(Please post all mail to Hon Sec) Goring, Reading, Berkshire. RG8 9AL (H) (01491) 872706 (M) 07765 400123 e: chantharding@hotmail.com B Lambert(F) (H) (01491) 874299 (M) 07174 356485 e: hardwickfix@gmail.com Hatfield House Tennis Club c/o Fore Street Lodge, Hatfield House J Barlow (S) J S Dawes (Head Pro)

Old Hatfield, Herts AL9 5NF 11 Edmunds Walk ,

J Law (T) (01707) 273391 London N2 0HU e: proshhtc.co.uk (H) (020) 88836972 As for court www.hatfieldhouserealtennis.com (M) 07983 782656 e: jamesbarlow20@hotmail.com Jackie Sherman (F) e: jas4@talktalk.net (M) 07971 680367

Holyport Real Tennis Club Holyport Street, Holyport, J Evans (F)

Maidenhead, Berks SL6 2JR As for court

(T) (01628) 673964 e: clubdirector@hrtc.co.uk e: pros@hrtc.co.uk www.hrtc.co.uk

16

J Evans (Club Director)

TENNIS UK Court

Address and telephone number

Hon Sec (S) Fixture Sec (F)

Professional(s) (PT = part-time)

The Hyde Tennis Club Walditch, Bridport, Terry Hand J Brodie (Head Pro) Dorset DT6 4LB e: tfhand@aol.com S Grier (Club Manager)

(T) (01308) 420777 Ros Clark

e: clubpro@hyderealtennis.co.uk e: alrosclark@gmail.com (F) www.hyderealtennis.co.uk As for court

Jesmond Dene Matthew Bank, Jesmond, Richard Sanderson (S)(F) M Eadle Real Tennis Club Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 3RE (M) 07768 147080 S Harris (Admin)

(T) (0191) 281 6854 e: ar.sanderson@btinternet.com As for court

e: club@jdrtc.co.uk

The Leamington 50 Bedford Street, Leamington Spa, F Dixon (S) Tennis Court Club Warks CV32 5DT As for court (T) (01926) 424977

e: tenniscourtclub@hotmail.com B Taylor-Matthews (F) www.leamingtonrealtennis.co.uk As for court

B Taylor-Matthews (Head Pro) C Aley (Assistant Pro)

The Manchester Tennis 33 Blackfriars Road, Salford 3 Jamie Bebb (S) S Heap (General Manager) and Racquet Club Manchester M3 7AQ 106 Talfourd Road S J Brockenshaw (Head Pro)

(T) (0161) 834 0616/0161 241 9260 London D Long (Senior Pro) (F) (0161) 834 4909 SE15 5NZ As for court e: manager@mtrc.co.uk (M) 07947 859954

e: professional@mtrc.co.uk Carl Hamill (F) e: hamill747@yahoo.co.uk

MCC The Tennis Court, B A Sharp (F) Marylebone Cricket MCC, Lord’s Ground 4a Woronzow Road, London NW8 6QE Club St John’s Wood, London NW8 8QN (H&W) (020) 7722 1135 C J Swallow

(T) (020) 7616 8685 (020) 7586 1063 (M) 07768 611493 J Clifton (Assistant Pro)

e: tennisandsquash@mcc.org.uk e: bsharp318@aol.com As for court Middlesex University Middlesex University Real Tennis Club C Bray (S) C J Bray (Director of Real Tennis) Real Tennis Court The Burroughs e: pros@murtc.co.uk W Burns (Head Pro) Hendon (T) (02084) 579568 As for court NW4 4BT J Harrington (F) (T) (020) 8457 9568 (M) 07734 054126 e: pros@murtc.co.uk e: harrington@btconnect.com Moreton Morrell Moreton Morrell, Warwick, J B Miller (S) Tennis Court Club Warks CV35 9AL 2 Diana Lodge, Little Kineton,

(T) (01926) 651229 Warks CV35 0DL e: pro@mmtcc.org (H) (01926) 640440 (M) 07855 475586 e: johnmiller095@gmail.com

T Granville As for court L Pettiford (Assistant Pro)

The Newmarket Fitzroy Street, Newmarket John Saville (S) A Knibbs Real Tennis Club Suffolk CB8 0JT (M) 07968 912046 (M) 07074 268787

(T & F) (01638) 666612 e: john-saville@ntlworld.com As for court e: pros@newmarketrealtennis.club J Becher (F) www.newmarketrealtennis.club (M) 07738 784594 e: becher510@btinternet.com

17

TENNIS UK Court

Address and telephone number

Hon Sec (S) Fixture Sec (F)

Professional(s) (PT = part-time)

The Oratory Tennis Club The Sports Centre, Mark Candlish R Fahey (Head Pro)

The Oratory School, Woodcote, e: admin@ortc.uk C Fahey (Head of racquets for Reading, Berks RG8 0PJ Oratory School) (M) 07375 898995 e: pros@ortc.uk Oxford University c/o Merton College, Merton Street Derek Williams (S) Tennis Court Oxford OX1 4JD (M) 07774 987731 (T) (01865) 244212 e: del636@yahoo.co.uk

e: pros@outc.org.uk

As for court www.outc.org.uk A J Davis (F) As for court

A J Davis (Head Pro) C Greenhalgh

Petworth House Estate Yard, Petworth House, J Petersen (S) T Durack (Head Pro) Tennis Court Petworth, Sussex GU28 0DU Pear Tree Cottage Beech Hill, L Gordon

Hambledon As for court (T) (01798) 343527 Surrey e: phtc@btconnect.com GU8 4HL e: jonepetersen@gmail.com C. Swan (F) e: christopher.swan@rathbones.com (T) (07506) 173480 The Prested Hall Prested Hall, Feering Chase, Mark Hobbs M Hobbs (Head Pro) Racket Club Feering, Nr Kelvedon, Essex CO5 9EE As per court As for court (2 courts) (T) (01376) 570220

e: bookings@prestedtennisclub.co.uk www.prested.co.uk

The Queen’s Club Palliser Road, London W14 9EQ A Drayson (F) B Ronaldson (Head Pro) (2 courts) (T) (020) 73863405 (M) 07812 024434 B D Sayers e: rackets@queensclub.co.uk e. fieldhouse248@me.com N MacKenzie e: realtennis@queensclub.co.uk

Radley College c/o Sports Centre, Radley College, Master-in-Charge C J Ronaldson (Head Pro) Tennis Court Radley Abingdon, Oxon OX14 2HU M F Dean N Merola (T) (01235) 543176 e: mfd@radley.org.uk As for court e: cjr@radley.org.uk (H) (01235) 202973

The Royal Tennis Court Hampton Court Palace, P Newton (S) N C Wood (Head Pro)

East Molesey, Surrey KT8 9AU (M) 07764 471702 69 Tennis Court Lane

(T) (020) 8977 3015 e: paulnewton2@live.com Hampton Court Palace e: info@royaltenniscourt.com

w: www.royaltenniscourt.com Giles Day (F) A L P Ronaldson (PT) As for court J Smith e: RTCFixtures@gmail.com S Blaber As for court Seacourt Tennis Club 20 Victoria Avenue, Hayling Island, (T) (023) 92466122 A Lyons (Head Pro) Hants PO11 9AJ e: pros@seacourt.com As per court

Wellington Real Dukes Ride D Jones (Head Pro) Tennis Club Crowthorne (T) (01344) 444245 Pro Shop A Player (Senior Pro) West Berkshire (M) 07471 905661 RG45 7PU e: realtennis@wellingtonfitness.co.uk e: DPJ@wellingtonfitness.co.uk

18

International AUSTRALIA Australia Real Tennis Association Chairman: Graeme Bradfield c/o The Royal Melbourne Tennis Club, 18 Sherwood St, Richmond, Victoria 3121 (T) +61 (3) 9429 9788 e: graeme.bradfield@bradfields.net.au Chair of Tennis; Alistair Curley e: alistair.curley@nab.com.au Honorary Secretary: Julie Davies, e: julie.m.davies@bigpond.com

FRANCE Comité Français du Jeu de Courte Paume (Fédération Française de Tennis) President: Tim Batten e: president.cfcp@gmail.com CFCP, 74 ter rue Lauriston, 751164 Paris Secretary General: Emmanuel Chelli e: secretaire.cfcp@gmail.com IRELAND Irish Real Tennis Association President: Síle Reilly (USA) Chairman: Mike Bolton, Kilcoagh, Donard, Co. Wicklow (T) + 353 45 404623 Secretary: Ben North Membership & Competitions Secretary: Bear North 64 Old Cabra Road, Dublin 7 e: info@irishrealtennis.ie www.irishrealtennis.ie

THE NETHERLANDS The Dutch Real Tennis Association Chairman: Theo Bollerman (T) +31 (70) 3465794 Treasurer: Lucie Douwes Dekker e:luciedd@planet.nl Secretary: Cees de Bondt Sweelinckplein 19A, 2517 GM Den Haag (T) + 31 (70) 345 3774

USA The United States Court Tennis Association President: Jim Zug (T) +1 (202) 288 4644 e: jameszug@gmail.com 1st Vice President - Vern Peterson-Cassin 2nd Vice President - Dacre Stoker Treasurer - Ken Forton Secretary: Mary Livingston e: mary.livingston@gmail.com Membership Secretary - Gary Swantner

USA AND CANADA The North American Racquets Association President: Jonathan Larken e: jlarken@hotmail.com Comms Director: Conor Medlow e: conor@racquetclubchicago.org

19

RACKETS UK Court

Professional(s)

Address and telephone number

Master-in-Charge

Address and telephone number

BRNC Dartmouth The Sports Officer Britannia Royal Naval College Dartmouth, Devon TQ6 0HJ (W) (01803) 832141 Ext 7016

Charterhouse M J Crosby (T) (Court) (01483) 291655 A G Johnson c/o Brooke Hall, Charterhouse, School (T) (School) (01483) 291671 Godalming, Surrey GU7 2DX (2 courts) e: mjc@charterhouse.org.uk (T) (W) (01483) 291671 e: agi@charterhouse.org.uk Cheltenham M P Briers Cheltenham College, Bath Road Cheltenham College, Bath Road College Cheltenham Glos GL53 7LD Cheltenham Glos GL53 7LD (T) (O) (01242) 265600 (M) 07717 457204 (M) 07771 988935 e: m.briers@cheltenhamcollege.org e: m.coley@cheltenhamcollege.org

Clifton College R Williams Clifton College, Clifton, R Williams 32 College Road, Bristol BS8 3JH Clifton, Bristol BS8 3JH (T) (School) (0117) 315 7000 e: rcjwilliams1@hotmail.com (T) (Court) (0117) 315 7279 (M) 07779 248666

Eton College P Brake Eton College, Richard Montgomerie 1 Willow Place (2 courts) Windsor SL4 6DW Eton, (T) (Court) (01753) 370473 Berkshire SL4 6HJ (M) 07900 306044 (M) 07917 132414 e: p.brake@etoncollege.org.uk

Haileybury G Tyndall Haileybury College, Jocelyn Jennings Haileybury College, College Haileybury, Hertford e:j.jennings@haileybury.com Haileybury, Hertford SG13 7NU SG13 7NU (M) 07872 559506 (T) (Court) (01992) 706371 e: g.tyndall@haileybury.com

Harrow School J M Eaton 33 West Street, Harrow-on-the-Hill, P J Warfield Cairnryan, (2 courts) Middlesex HA1 3EG Harrow Park, (T) (H) (020) 8422 3298 Harrow-on-the-Hill, (T) (Court) (020) 8872 8227 Middlesex HA1 3JE (T) (School) (020) 8872 8000 (T) (020) 8872 8202 e: rackets@harrowschool.org.uk e: pjw@harrowschool.org.uk Malvern College N A Brett College Road, Malvern, (2 Courts) Worcs WR14 3DF (T) (Courts) (01684) 581639 (T) (School) (01685) 581500 e: nab@malcol.org e: nab@malverncollege.org.uk The Manchester S J Brockenshaw 33 Blackfriars Road, Salford 3 Tennis and Manchester M3 7AQ Racquet Club (T) (0161) 834 0616/ 834 4909 e: professional@mtrc.co.uk

S M Heap (Manager)

e: manager@mtrc.co.uk

Marlborough R H Wakely c/o The Rackets Court, M Bush (M) 07773 901484 College Marlborough College, e: mplb@marlborough.org (2 courts) Marlborough, Wilts SN8 1PA

(W & court) (01672) 892491 (M) 07967 557036 e: rhw@marlboroughcollege.org

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RACKETS UK Court

Professional(s)

Address and telephone number

Master-in-Charge

Address and telephone number

The Queen’s Club B Ronaldson Palliser Road (2 courts) B C Bomford London W14 9EQ (Head Professional) (T) (020) 7386 3405 e: rackets@queensclub.co.uk Radley College J Rock 6 Walled Gardens, Radley College, Kyle Willis-Stovold Abingdon, Oxon OX14 2HR (T) (W) (01235) 543000 e: JCR.Rock@radley.org.uk

Rugby School P Rosser 13 Horton Crescent, F Hemming-Allen The Senior Common Room (2 courts) Rugby, Warks CV22 5DJ 20 Horton Crescent (T) (01788) 576507 Rugby, Warks CV22 5DJ e: pjr@rugbyschool.net (T) (H) (01604) 740148 (T) (W) (01788) 556157 (M) (01788) 556280 e: fha@rugbyschool.net RMA Sandhurst Major C M S Lytle The Royal Military Academy,

Sandhurst, Camberley, Surrey GU15 4PQ e: max.lytle235@mod.uk Seacourt Tennis Club 20 Victoria Avenue, Hayling Island, Hants PO11 9AJ (T) (02392) 466122

St Paul’s School S Tulley St Paul’s School, Lonsdale Road, Dr E.A.Beesley St Paul’s School Barnes, London SW13 9JT e: EAB@stpaulsschool.org.uk (T) (School) (020) 87489162 (M) 07972 037095

(T) (Court) (020) 8746 5314 e: steve.tulley@stpaulsschool.org.uk Tonbridge School D J Makey 10, Cedar Crescent, Tonbridge, John Gibbs (2 Courts) Kent TN10 3QW (T) 078986 554496 (M) 07941 518686 e: jdg@tonbridge-school.org e: djm@tonbridge-school.org

Wellington College R Tulley Wellington College, C M Oliphant-Callum Wellington College, Crowthorne, Berks RG45 7PU Crowthorne, Berks RG45 7PU (T) (Court) (01344) 444251 (T) (01344) 444145 e:rst@wellingtoncollege.org e: cmoc@wellingtoncollege.org.uk Winchester T E R Cawston c/o The Rackets Courts, College Winchester College, Winchester (2 Courts) Hants SO23 9LX (T) (Court) (01962) 621137 (T) (College) (01962) 621200 (M) 07930 381707 e: terc@wincoll.ac.uk

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Corporate Members, Schools, Alumni & Others The Brigands Tennis Club (Tennis) MALCOLM THORP (M) 07785 265 651 e: mt59@btinternet.com Bryanston Bumblebees (Tennis) GUY MALLINSON Mulberry House Rax Lane Bridport Dorset DT6 3JJ e: guy@mallinson.co.uk Charterhouse Monks (Rackets) MARTIN J CROSBY Brooke Hall, Charterhouse, Hurtmore Road, Godalming, Surrey GU7 2DX (W) (01483) 291655 e: mjc@charterhouse.org.uk Clifton Boasters (Rackets) C K (SAM) BEALE 6 Elgin Park, Redland, Bristol BS6 6RU (M) 07980 562086 e: cksambeale@gmail.com CURTC K LUDEKENS Grange Road Cambridge CB3 9DJ e: pros@curtc.net Dutch Real Tennis Association Sweelinckplein 19A The Hague, 2517 GM NETHERLANDS e: luciedd@planet.nl Grays of Cambridge Int. Ltd Station Road, Robertsbridge East Sussex, TN32 5DH Harrow (Tennis) SIMON ROUNDELL 3 Newstead Way, Wimbledon, London SW19 5HR (H) (020) 8946 9707 (M) 07770 865631 e: sroundell@googlemail.com Harrow (Rackets) TOMMY FABER Hartham Park Stické Tennis Club Hartham Park, Corsham Wiltshire, SN13 0RP Honourable Artillery Company Tennis and Rackets Club c/o MR A ANDERSON Armoury House, City Road.

London EC1Y 2BQ e: alexander.i.anderson@gmail.com IBM Real Tennis and Rackets Club NEALE TURNER e: neale.turner@btinternet.com

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Jesters (Tennis) ADAM DOLMAN (M) 07977 296896 e: adamdolman@yahoo.co.uk Jesters (Rackets) ALISTAIR GOURLAY 17 Crabtree Lane, London, SW6 6LP (H) (020) 73813403 e: alastair@parkdrivepictures.com Malvernian Society Ltd Malvern College Malvern, Worcs WR14 3DF e: malsoc@malcol.org Old Etonian Racquets & Tennis Club JAMES BINGHAM Puttenham Place Farm Elm Road, Penn Bucks HP10 8LE e: jambingham@hotmail.com (M) 07904 092821 Old Harrovian Real Tennis and Rackets Association SIMON ROUNDELL 80 Devonshire Road London W5 4TP (M) 07904 409671 e: sroundell@googlemail.com Old Wykehamist Tennis and Rackets Association Flat 4 No. 5 Gwendwr Road London W14 9BA Oxford (University Tennis) ANDREW J DAVIS c/o Merton College, Merton Street Oxford OX1 4JD e: real-tennis.club@studentclubs.ox.ac.uk Sun Court Tennis Club 8 Blavenhead Irvine, Aryshire KA10 1KF The Army Tennis & Rackets Association CAPTAIN OLLY SNELL e: snello846@mod.uk The Dedanists’ Society JOSH FARRALL 12 Putman PLace Henley-on-Thames. Oxon RG9 1BZ (M) 07990 857 912 e: johnfarrall@iib.ws The Haphazard TOM ROBERTSON e: tom@tomrobertson.org

The Hurlingham Club TONY DUTTON e: tony.dutton@hurlinghamclub.org.uk The Ladies’ Real Tennis Association KATIE LEPPARD 43 Southfield Road, Oxford. OX4 1NX (M) 07979 525 932 e: chairman@ladiesrealtennis.com The Tiverton Real Tennis Club MIKE SEYMOUR 4 St Aubyn’s Park, Tiverton, Devon EX16 4JG (H) (01884) 259200 Tonbridge (Rackets) RUPERT OWEN-BROWNE (H) (01825) 830078 (M) 07917 357620 e: rupertob@me.com Tonbridge (Tennis) GEORGE E NODDER e: george.nodder@gmail.com Westminster School Head of Station Little Deans Yard London, SW1P 3PF Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum Church Road, Wimbledon London, SW19 5AE Wykeham Rackets (Monday) Club NEALE TURNER e: neale.turner@btinternet.ccm Wykeham Rackets (Wednesday) Club Tim Bolton-Carter Crossways House Damerham SP6 3EU e: Tim.BoltonCarter@rathbones.com Wellington Rackets and Real Tennis Dukes Ride Crowthorne West Berkshire RG45 7PU (T) (01344) 444245 e: realtennis@wellingtonfitness.co.uk

Tennis & Rackets Association I will try to avoid unnecessary duplication of comments made earlier in this report by the Chairman and the CEO. I want particularly to highlight the main achievements and successes in our Tennis world until the season came to a stop in March.

The Champions Trophy at Hampton Court took place at the end of July 2019. There was the usual strong field and Rob Fahey had his first win of this title against John Lumley. The event promoted Real Tennis to a large audience and it was good to hear that there were over 20,000 social media hits.

Congratulations to Sue Haswell and Simon Talbot-Williams on winning the Amateur Doubles Tournament which ran alongside the main event and then beating two professionals in their ‘prize’.

In October Rob Fahey beat Bryn Sayers to win the Peter Luck-Hille IRTPA Championship. Rob was then beaten in the British Open by Camden Riviere. The highly anticipated World Championship has, unfortunately, had to be postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The eliminator process in January and February saw many fine matches between Chris Chapman and Ben Taylor-Matthews and Nick Howell and Camden Riviere, resulting in the white puffs of smoke identifying Camden Riviere as the challenger.

There is plenty of evidence that a lot of junior talent is coming through. The British Open Juniors held at Queen’s in August 2019 had a large field and William Flynn won the Under 18 singles. The Under 12 final was reportedly the best ever at that level with 8 year old Max Warner from Queen’s being triumphant. Subsequently in November the Under 19 Doubles were won by Freddie Bristowe and Max Jones against some very tough competition. In the 2020 British Open Under 21 and Under 24 Singles and Doubles, Freddie Bristowe beat Ned Batstone and in the Under 24 Singles Rob Shenkman (of Podcast and You Tube fame/infamy) beat Levi Gale. There were two relatively new names in the mix as well when the Under 20 competition held at Prested Hall saw Benedict Yorston beat Magnus Gorson.

There was much play to laud too in the continuing tussle between Jamie Douglas and Ed Kay, with Jamie beating Ed in the Amateur Singles in February but Ed with Jamie Giddins being victorious in the Doubles.

In January 2020 it was very pleasing to hear that an English team had won the Boomerang Cup in Melbourne. Many congratulations to Derrick and Charlie Wells, Katie Leppard and Julian Stafford. Persistence has been rewarded. Unfortunately, unlike The Ashes, everyone has to return to Melbourne every two years for the next challenge.

The premier inter-club competitions of the Brodie Field and Pol all reached successful finals. Seacourt beat Radley in the Brodie, Leamington beat Jesmond Dene in the Field and RTC beat Queen’s in the Pol. The last T&RA sponsored tournament to take place was the category E on the 16th March at Hatfield where Chris Manson beat Alex Brodie. Then everything stopped on the 20th March when HMG announced the closure of gyms and then three days later the full lockdown started.

This was all on the games side. On the governance and strategy side much work has continued both pre and post Covid. As mentioned previously and as part of David Watson’s ‘mission statement’, significant strides have now been taken to try to ensure there is appropriate recruitment, training and

Chris Vigrass Chairman of The Tennis Committee

skilling of professionals in order for our game to continue and to thrive.

The Investing in Professionals programme, has come together under the facilitation and sponsorship of John Whiting to whom I am very grateful. This has involved a multi-faceted approach involving the pros, the clubs and senior individuals to produce a programme for the future. The overall programme delivery is supported and funded by the T&RA. The programme and its structure were described to Tennis Club Chairmen in May and was very well received. Several multi disciplinary teams have been put together to address; attraction/recruitment/ retention; business and career including sports club management; Real Tennis specific including equipment and player development; programme planning and project funding.

The overall programme will address the needs of the clubs and the pros for the future. Somewhat ironically, the intervention of Covid has enabled various people on the teams to be able to devote much greater attention to this programme than might otherwise have been the case. We hope to launch it fully soon.

Finding a new major sponsor for the game has remained challenging. Having exhausted all internal resources, a sports marketing and sponsorship specialist firm, Sports Sphere Ltd, were retained, as you know, to assist in this challenge.

Unfortunately this has not yet yielded any results. One potential impact is upon the British Open. Its funding has been a result of the generosity of a handful of generous individual patrons for the last few years and some new structure will need to be found in 2021.

The Tennis Committee has also been addressing a vision and strategy for the future of the game. The elements include pro recruitment, demographics, participation, marketing, communications, new courts, diversity, safety, promotion, and the role of the relevant bodies. We are pleased to have had Peter Luck-Hille joining the Committee in April and are very grateful for all the contribution, support and enthusiasm that Freddie Adam added when she was a Committee member.

At the time of writing there is no clear steer from HMG as to when the lockdown restrictions will be relaxed. Every frustrated player and supporter who has been forced to be an inactive observer since March can only welcome the time when the restrictions are lifted. Hopefully we can have virtually a full programme of Tennis in the forthcoming season as would be the norm.

I thank all the individuals who volunteer and give their time and attention or otherwise to our game and to the whole T&RA secretariat whose efforts and assistance in keeping things going needs to be suitably noted and appreciated, in particular their assistance in helping clubs in these Covid times re steps to take, access to furloughing and preparing for a resumption.

In the meantime, please stay safe!

23

LRTA

Ladies Real Tennis Association

LRTA Chairman’s Report 2020 Katie Leppard Chairman

As I write this report, we have been four months without any Tennis. Gosh how we all took it for granted. Not just the competition and the strive for progression and improvement but also the social aspects of our game, the food and wine and the many important friendships that go with it. And so we move forward to our “new normal” with singles play due to start shortly and doubles following some time afterwards.

We will appreciate it all the more when we get back on court.

Whilst the 2019/20 year hasn’t quite turned out to be quite what was expected, it was otherwise a good and busy one full of fixtures and events with high quality Tennis, promising players and lots of fun. For me as new chairman, it has been a year of listening and learning, building relationships and engaging more with our membership.

We felt somewhat cheated at the end of our Tennis season with many tournaments and matches cancelled but instead of focussing on lack of play, let’s celebrate the successes: Tournament Results: UK: High/Low Handicap, Newmarket Doubles – Rebecca Kashti & Jacqueline Siu British Ladies Handicap, Prested Singles - Div 1 Ali Kirkwood & Div 2 Megan Hawkey British Ladies Handicap Doubles - Div 1 Candida Nicholls/Amy Pye & Div 2 Megan Hawkey/ Jacqueline Siu Billy Ross Skinner, Hatfield Mixed doubles – Sue Haswell/Simon Mansfield Masters – Penny Lumley British Open – Postponed International - Cancelled 24

Girls U21 Handicap Singles – Laura Neill National School Girls U19 Singles – Cesca Sweet National School Girls U19 Doubles – Cesca Sweet & Lilly May Redshaw National School Girls U15 Singles – Olivia Bolton National School Girls U15 Doubles – Olivia Bolton & Marina Hammond International: French Open, Paris: Singles – Claire Fahey French Open Doubles: Claire Fahey & Tara Lumley Australian Open, Melbourne Singles – Tara Lumley Australian Open Doubles – Penny & Tara Lumley Congratulations to all our winners over the 2019/20 season.

Our top five women players come from all corners of the world. Claire Fahey (UK – handicap 5.8) continues to dominate at the top of the ladies’ game as world champion and British Open champion since 2011 - a phenomenal achievement. Lea Van der Zwalmen (France handicap 16.5) our ladies world no. 2 made a great improvement in handicap last year and won the T&RA’s Greenwood Trophy for most improved player. Kate Leeming (Australia – handicap 24.2) is our ladies no. 3 and featured heavily at the Australian Open. Tara Lumley (UK – handicap 24.5) our no. 4 has been doing some trophy collecting of her own and won both the French Open doubles and Australian Open singles and doubles this year. Saskia

LRTA Bollerman (Netherlands – handicap 28) is our no. 5 and it was wonderful to see her back playing doubles in the Australian Open after some injury time out last year. Our top ladies continue to be a huge inspiration and we were sorry not to be able to showcase all our talent at the International at Petworth this year. We are however looking forward to Ladies World Championships at Fontainbleau in April directly following our British Open.

Ladies Real Tennis usually run a very full fixtures list with around 30 fixtures during the year and we encourage all women to participate whatever age and standard. We are grateful to all the clubs who host us and of course to the professionals who make us feel so welcome.

Our thoughts have very much been with all the professionals during this difficult time – we have missed them all but look forward to working with them again next season.

At junior level, we are very encouraged with the talent coming through – Cesca Sweet and Olivier Boulton have both excelled in their respective age groups. There has been some great competition at our junior events and we are excited to be introducing our first junior LRTA match for the coming season which we hope will encourage and inspire the girls further. We have close links with The Dedanists’ Foundation in our junior Tennis and are proud as an Association to be a Dedanists’ Diamond Patron donating to their cause each year. We continue to invest in our juniors working with the clubs and pros to nurture talent in a fun, friendly and safe environment.

the range and depth of tournaments which are so crucial to the ladies’ game and provide great competition and enjoyment to all. We are indebted to all those who have sponsored and supported us namely Peter Luck-Hille, Addison Law Solicitors, The Jesters, Beard Construction, Wineflow, Champagne Pol Roger, The Dedanists’ Society, Mayfield Press and our anonymous donors. Thank you all for your generosity and for helping us to promote womens’ Tennis.

I would like to thank all of my fellow committee members for their dedication and hard work which they manage to fit in to their already busy lives. I am extremely grateful for everyone’s help, support and enthusiasm throughout the year including those on our sub-committees, match and tournament managers, club representatives and all our volunteers who generously give their time. Without all these lovely people our Association would simply not function. All their work, both visible and behind the scenes, is hugely appreciated.

Here are a number of ways you, the T&RA membership can support us: • Become a member for as little as £10 per annum – women and men, young and old are all welcome – we want to continue to grow our community • Encourage all ladies at your clubs to sign up for our matches and tournaments – there is something for everyone whatever standard.

• Sponsor a match, event or tournament – or if you know of someone who would sponsor, please put us in touch • Follow us on social media and help to raise awareness • Make a donation for womens’ Tennis either for something specific or for general development • Leave a legacy • Offer the most precious thing, your time - we always welcome volunteers, good initiatives and feedback

T&RA As chairman of the LRTA I sit on the board of the T&RA and am a member of the Tennis committee providing an important link between the two Associations, diversity on the board and at times a different perspective. It has led to some interesting work during the year. We strive for Tennis to be an inclusive sport for everyone and look forward to working closely with the T&RA in the coming year for Our Tennis community may be small, but it is the benefit of the wider game. definitely strong, passionate and enthusiastic.

We look forward to building on this in the coming Sponsorship & Support year increasing awareness, participation at all Without sponsorship we could not provide levels and of course enjoyment for all.

25

The Dedanists’ Foundation

By David Mills, Chairman We are a grant giving charity (No. 1145526) whose sole aim is to increase the number of young people from all backgrounds playing Real Tennis. We are fully supported in this aim by our President and World Champion, Rob Fahey, our hard working Ambassador, Paul Weaver and our Board of Directors.

ACHIEVEMENTS DURING THE PAST YEAR In the past twelve months we have continued to deliver our support for junior Real Tennis programmes at clubs around the country. We aim to assist clubs in the formation and delivery of their junior Tennis programmes, to attract new junior players into the game on an open access basis. As well as the support we already give to many clubs, we have started this year three new initiatives at Jesmond, MURTC and The Hyde.

NATIONAL UNDER 18 HANDICAP SINGLES 2019 The National U18 Handicap Singles Tournament took place at Wellington College over the weekend of 14th/15th December and was sponsored by The Dedanists’ Foundation. There was a very large entry this year including eight girls and as a result the very early rounds had to take place on the Friday evening.

There were large contingents from Wellington and Seacourt but many other clubs were also represented.

The trophy was presented to Toby Barton (Wellington)

by Paul Weaver who is the Dedanists’ Foundation Ambassador and T&RA Director of Junior Tennis.

The Dedanists’ Foundation were delighted with the number of entries and particularly by the high proportion of girls playing. Dan Jones & Adam Player marked superbly throughout and the event was well attended by parents and supporters of young players.

TRAIN THE TRAINER WORKSHOPS An important part of the charity’s work is the running of a series of courses to train the country’s professionals in the specific methods required to coach groups of juniors. Coaching youngsters has to be a combination of learning and fun and is quite different from coaching adult players. These courses have been run by Dan Jones and Paul Weaver at the Wellington court. Dan and Paul were involved in creating the very successful junior programme at Seacourt which has created so many fine young players over the years.

Almost all of the country’s Real Tennis professionals have now attended these valuable sessions.

26

GAP YEAR APPRENTICE SCHEME The Dedanists' Foundation together with the Dedanists’ Society and the T&RA are supporting an important new initiative that took place at the Cambridge club. The objective is to support two youngsters whilst they are given a six month insight into life as a Real Tennis professional with a view to them choosing this as a career. Currently the game is suffering from a shortfall in the number of young players seeking to become professionals. It is hoped that if this initiative is successful it could become a blueprint for similar schemes at other clubs.

As part of their general training the Gap Year students had a day at the Wellington court. They took part in a one day “Train the Trainer” course with Dan Jones & Paul Weaver sponsored by The Dedanists. They also had a four day work experience trip to Seacourt to see how another club is run.

Dan & Paul are two of the most experienced Junior coaches in the country and the course aims to teach aspiring young professionals how to attract juniors to a club and how to run group coaching sessions for youngsters.

Apprentice learning the ropes

THE PETER LUCK-HILLE CUP 2019/20 The PLH Cup is an inter-club junior competition that encourages junior players to get involved in club matches for the first time and meet juniors from other clubs. It is aimed at the average junior player rather than elite players as these top juniors already have plenty of other junior tournaments. This season 10 clubs entered teams and the event was played on a knock-out basis for the first time.

The tournament had reached semi-final stage by the time that it was stopped in its tracks by the club closures forced upon us by Covid-19. The four clubs that reached the semi-finals are Seacourt, Oxford, RTC and Petworth. It is hoped to complete this event in the Autumn.

INTER-UNIVERSITIES TOURNAMENT 2020 Once again The Dedanists’ Foundation has jointly sponsored the Inter-Universities Tournament. This event was held at the Cambridge/Newmarket courts over 6th-9th March. 13 university teams took part, with a total number of students in excess of 50. A Tournament Dinner and Ceilidh were enjoyed enormously by all.

Fun at the Ceilidh!

Finals Day

Peter Luck-Hille congratulates the victorious 2019 RTC team

UNIVERSITIES We have identified University Student Real Tennis Clubs as a very effective means of recruiting new young players, and well worth our support.

We have awarded cash grants to each of the following university student clubs: Bristol, Durham, Middlesex, Exeter (who play at the Hyde and Bristol courts), Newcastle, St Mary’s and St Andrews. We have awarded these grants on the basis that the student clubs have proper governance, elected Officers, formal University recognition and a formal relationship with their local Real Tennis club.

THREE NEW DIRECTORS JOIN THE BOARD

HONOURS BOARD We now have 19 Diamond Patrons and 26 Founder Patrons, whose names will appear on the new Dedanists’ Foundation Honours Board, which will be erected in the dedans of the West Court at Queen’s Club. If you are interested in becoming a Patron please see below for details.

The Charity has appointed three new Directors, Simon Mansfield, former Chairman of Real Tennis at Queen’s, Danny Jones, the senior Professional at Wellington RTC and Francis Moore of the Moore Family Office, who are the main sponsors of Rob Fahey’s next World title defence.

LEGACY GIFTS We have produced a short booklet which will act as a guide to help those who wish to leave donations to The Dedanists’ Foundation in their will. The booklet explains how to do this and provides information such as suggested wording to make things simpler.

All donations are greatly appreciated and will go towards helping us to achieve our ambition to increase the number of young people playing this great game on an open access basis.

HOW DO I BECOME A PATRON OR MAKE A DONATION? We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our Founder Patrons who have between them raised a considerable amount of money which we use to fund all of our projects. In order to carry on with the good work we are doing the Charity always needs to secure further donations. Up until now there has only been a single option for potential donors which was to become a Founder Patron of the Foundation. Now we are pleased to announce that in future there will be a new category of Patron for the Charity, namely Diamond Patrons. If you would like to become a Founder Patron or a Diamond Patron to help us continue with this good work please email one of the following:David Mills, Chairman dsmills1949@gmail.com Josh Farrall, Director josh@dedanistsfoundation.org Paul Weaver, Ambassador pweaver@btopenworld.com To make a donation please go to the ‘DONATION’ tab on our website:-

www.dedanistsfoundation.org 27

TENNIS UK The British Real Tennis Academy 2019-20 A Dedanists’ Society report

by Josh Farrall & Graham Tomkinson

T

he British Real Tennis Academy is the UK national coaching programme for the best young players in the country. Each year, it typically selects 25 or so young players who are a mix of amateurs and professionals, men and women and from 12 to 24 years of age. Players are selected from across all clubs on the basis of match play results, commitment, potential and the recommendation of their club head professional. The Academy curriculum includes Real Tennis strokeplay, matchplay, physical training, nutrition and sports psychology. Players are streamed into squads according to age and proficiency. Coaching of the Senior Squad, the lowest handicap players, is delivered via individual one-on-one sessions with coaches such as Rob Fahey and Ben Taylor-Matthews. Coaching to all other squads is delivered via a mix of group coaching days at Queen’s and Middlesex, match play days at Wellington with Dan Jones and additional private sessions for players in the high performance programme. The Real Tennis coaches include Rob Fahey, Ben Ronaldson, Bryn Sayers, Ben Taylor-Matthews, Dan Jones, Chris Bray and Andrew Lyons. The Society works with the Department of Sport Sciences at Brunel University to ensure that the design and content of Academy programmes include current research and best practice from the wider world of elite sport. The Dedanists’ Society funds and runs the Academy. It is also a primary sponsor of the World Under 18, the British Under 21 & 24 and the British Girls Under 15 & 19 Junior Championships. The Society receives significant funding and support from the T&RA. During 2019-20, the Academy delivered 16 group coaching days and a further 50+ sessions of individual one-on-one coaching to 27 of the best young players in the country. These individual sessions included Tennis coaching, physical training, sports psychology and match video analysis. Coronavirus and court closures shortened the coaching season by three months.

General Comment The handicaps of 50% of Academy players improved significantly over the last 12 months.

Outstanding achievements in this regard were delivered by William Flynn, Magnus Garson, Henry Henman, Ivo MacDonald, James Medlow, Max Trueman and Bertie Vallat. An annual improvement of 7 points is a good performance for higher handicap players and an improvement of 4 points is good for those with lower handicaps. Handicap is not the only valid measure of a player’s performance but it is certainly clear and objective. Typically, the rate of a player’s handicap improvement is not constant. It varies from year to year depending upon practice, coaching and the adoption, or 28

Robert Shenkman, winner of the U24 Singles

TENNIS UK

not, of fundamental changes in technique, fitness and mental strength. A player’s handicap may deteriorate in the short term while he or she is adopting new methods for longer term benefit.

This year, we launched a high performance programme of additional personal coaching for players with especially high potential. We put the ladies-only squad on hold and coached young women and men together, streamed according to handicap. The Cadet Squad completed its second year and is now an established success.

The number of young professionals in the Academy, including trainees, fell from four to three players. It is encouraging that a number of Academy players are interested in becoming professionals and certainly have the talent to do so.

Tournament Achievements Congratulations to the following for special achievements during the season: Championship Winners 2019/20 British Junior Tournaments Under 24 singles Robert Shenkman Under 21 singles Freddie Bristowe Under 20 singles Ben Yorston Under 19 singles girls Cesca Sweet Under 18 singles William Flynn Under 16 singles James Medlow Under 14 singles Bertie Vallat Under 12 singles Max Warner World Under 18 singles Freddie Bristowe Other Notable Achievements: Freddie Bristowe Seacourt Silver Racquet – winner

British Open - 2nd round William Flynn British Amateur entry at age 17

Clubs Congratulations to Radley on being the home club and primary developer of 22% of the young players in the Academy. The game is beholden to all clubs with the drive and capacity to recruit and develop the young players who represent the future of Real Tennis and from whom Academy players are selected.

Programme Directors & Coaches Programme Directors Graham Tomkinson, Stef King, Simon Roundell.

Tennis Coaches Chris Bray, Rob Fahey, Dan Jones, Andrew Lyons, Ben Ronaldson, Bryn Sayers, Ben Taylor-Matthews.

Physical Training Andy Chinneck, Graham Smith Sports Psychology Aura Goodman, Alex Lucas, Alison Maitland Diet & Nutrition Tracy Parker Microtactics Tennis coaches plus Graham Tomkinson.

Academy Chairman Josh Farrall 29

Investing in Professionals What’s the problem?

A recent study of the 24 Real Tennis Clubs in the UK showed that a third of the full and part-time professionals are over 45 years old and at least one quarter are expected to retire from the game in the next 5 years. Although a number of Clubs and Pros have regularly been recruiting and training, the current rate of new professionals coming into the game is so low that the situation will only get worse.

Why should we care?

All the data shows that energetic and capable pros are pivotal to the vibrancy and economic success of Clubs. Without motivated and outgoing professionals, levels of play will fall, fewer new players will be encouraged to play, youngsters will not be coached, courts will not be filled, playing standards will decline and some courts, and ultimately the game, may find it difficult to survive.

So what’s the solution?

Investing in Professionals (IiP). A new initiative to Attract, Recruit, Train and Retain.

IiP is a new programme sponsored by the T&RA and supported by both the Dedanist Society and Dedanist Foundation and endorsed by the IRTPA. IiP is supported by a working party of 37, comprising Players, Professionals, Club Chairmen and Representatives, who have come together in five connected Teams to work out a way to help save our game.

The mission is to Attract, Recruit, Train and Retain new professionals, initially at the rate of four per year. We plan to do this by linking the training of Real Tennis skills to the training of more Transferable sports management skills and Apprenticeship schemes. This approach, which offers the attraction of a career pathway to becoming a well-paid professional club manager or higher, is designed to be appealing to talented youngsters and, as importantly, their parents.

The scheme is well advanced, powered by teams working, pro bono as follows . Attract, Recruit & Retain.

• Apprenticeships and Transferable management skills

• Coaching, Fitness & Dietary • Real Tennis Skills: Marking, Equipment, Coaching, Player development, Club management • Fun 30

How will it work?

IiP has employed Sports Structures, an organisation which offers sport training solutions, to run the apprenticeship schemes, deliver the transferable management skills and train our own professionals in coaching and training. They will also be ensuring that assessment and accreditation throughout the scheme will be to the highest possible national and internationally recognised levels. Sports Structures will administer and manage IiP going forward.

What can I do to help?

There are still lots of challenges ahead and Clubs, Professionals, and the Real Tennis community will have key roles to play: Clubs IiP is dependent upon Clubs volunteering to be Host/ Incubator clubs, where the trainee professionals/ apprentices will learn their trade. These Clubs will receive up to 75% subsidy for salaries during their training period.

Professionals IiP will need experienced and skilled professionals to teach, train and mentor the Trainees Individuals. If you have skills in training, teaching, mentoring or project management and want to help then please get in touch with John Whiting (John@whitinguk.com) Money IiP has formed the Real Champions Club, supported by Hon President HRH The Earl of Wessex, to raise funds to support the programme.

Please sign up to be a member @ ÂŁ395 p.a. by contacting Carl Snitcher (carls@wissant.co.uk) Thank you IiP wants to thank all the volunteers who have committed their time and expertise to get this game saving project to where it is.

David Watson T&RA and International Rob Fahey MBE AOM IRTPA & Professionals Simon Mansfield Club Chairs & Representatives Carl Snitcher Funding John Whiting Facilitator

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2019/20

JUNIOR Tennis

All the winners at The British Junior Championships. Max, Bertie, James & Will

T

he message that juniors are the future of our game is really starting to get through and junior participation in Real Tennis has now become one of the sports top priorities.

The T&RA junior tournaments remain the backbone of the junior season and are the highlight of the junior calendar. The season started with the flagship event, the British Junior Singles Championships which are held at Queen’s Club in August. A large number of youngsters from many different clubs around the country competed over a 3-day period 16th18th August.

The U12 section saw the best final ever played at this level! 8-year-old Max Warner (Queen’s) defeated George Jameson 8/7 in an absolute thriller to become the youngest ever winner of the under 12 title. The U14 final was won by Bertie Vallat (Queen’s) who defeated Henry Henman (Radley) 6/3 6/2. The U16 final was an all Seacourt affair with James Medlow defeating Max Trueman 6/3 6/3.

The U18 section was dominated by William Flynn in the group stages but in the final he struggled to maintain his superiority. After a nervous start he then recovered well to win defeating Patrick Smart (Queen’s) 2/6 6/1 6/0.

The Nat Duncan Trophy and Racket was presented to Henry Henman for outstanding sportsmanship. Every player that entered received a superb commemorative Tennis shirt provided free of charge by the Dedanists’ Foundation.

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JUNIOR Tennis

Under 14 Singles final

Under 19 Doubles presentation

The next tournament was the U19 Doubles event held at Wellington on November 17th. This event was won by Freddie Bristowe & Max Jones (Wellington) who defeated James Medlow & Max Trueman (Seacourt) 6/3 6/1.

This was followed by the U18 Handicap Singles tournament held at Wellington on 14th/15th December. The “B” grade event was won by Henry Weekes (RTC) who defeated Fergus Thomson (Wellington) 6/5. The “A” grade final was also a thriller with Toby Barton (Wellington) defeating Hugo Pennant (Wellington) 8/7 to take the title.

The Dedanists’ Foundation which is a grant giving charity supporting junior Tennis continues to expand its very important contribution to the junior game. This year the inter-club junior tournament, the Peter Luck-Hille Cup, attracted a record entry of ten clubs playing in a knockout format for the first time. Youngsters from Seacourt, Prested, Petworth, Oratory, Wellington, RTC, Queen’s, Radley, Oxford and Bristol took part.

Sadly, this event (and some other 2020 junior events) had to be suspended at semi-final stage in March due to the Covid-19 outbreak.

As well as these traditional junior events, the schools Tennis programme continues to flourish under the guidance of Mick Dean. There are now a large number of schools getting involved in the inter-schools’ championships which took place very successfully early in 2020 in several locations.

Finally, our thanks once again go out to the main sponsors of the junior tournaments, the T&RA and the Dedanists’ Foundation for their continued generosity.

Paul Weaver 33

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Matchplay August 2019 - March 2020

British Junior Open Championships 2019 DAY 1 The group stages of the Under 12 & Under 14 sections were completed on Friday 16th August.

The final group of four in the U12s were Laszlo Garson, Max Warner, George Jameson and Louis Morgan.

The top two who qualified through to the final on Sunday were George Jameson & Max Warner.

The final group of four in the U14s were George Parsons, Bertie Vallat, Henry Henman & Ambrose Garson.

The top two who qualified through to the final on Sunday were Bertie Vallat & Henry Henman.

DAY 2 The group stages of the Under 16 & Under 18 sections were completed on Saturday 17th August.

The Finalists at the British Junior Championships

The final group of four in the U16s were Max Trueman, James Medlow, Edward Alder & James Rossiter. The top two who qualified through to the final on Sunday were Max Trueman & James Medlow.

The final group of four in the U18s were Max Jones, Patrick Smart, Alfred Backhouse & William Flynn. The top two who qualified through to the final on Sunday were Patrick Smart & William Flynn.

Finals Under 12 - Max Warner beat George Jameson 8/7 Under 14 - Bertie Vallat beat Henry Henman 6/2 6/2 Under 16 - James Medlow beat Max Trueman 6/3 6/3 Under 18 - William Flynn beat Patrick Smart 2/6 6/1 6/0

David Watson presenting the U18 trophy to William 34

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Henry Leaf Cup 2019 Eton (Jamie and Rory Giddins) won the Henry Leaf Cup, winning an exciting final against Charterhouse, 6/2 6/0, This is Eton’s first triumph in this prestigious competition since 1964.

IRTPA Championships 2019 Rob Fahey wins The Peter Luck Hille IRTPA Championships

HUGE congratulations to our winners of the 2019 IRTPA Championships.

The Peter Luck Hille IRTPA Championships saw Rob Fahey take the title against Bryn Sayers 6/5 6/2 6/2.

The Ged Eden IRTPA Satellite was won by John Woods-Casey who defeated Adam Player 6/2 6/3.

The Taylor Cup was won by Nino Merola, who beat John Woods-Casey 6/2 6/5.

A special thanks to Ryan Carey for providing phenomenal streaming throughout the week long event and also to our Official Photographer: Tim Edwards.

Some of the winners and finalists with HRH The Earl of Wessex, Susie Falkner & Dan Jones

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Tennis Court Action at Wellington.

IRTPA 2019

36

Matchplay August 2019 - March 2020

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British Under 19 Doubles Championships 2019 This tournament attracted young players from many clubs including Radley, Wellington, Queen’s, Oratory and Seacourt.

There was a high quality entry of eight pairs with great matches all day. The standard of play was excellent with youngsters playing off very decent handicaps as low as 14!

The first semi-final saw a win for Junior World Champion Freddie Bristowe (Wellington) and Max Jones (Seacourt) who defeated Huw Thomas (Seacourt) and Benji Barnes (Welligton) 8/1. The 2nd semi-final was a much closer contest with Seacourt pairing James Medlow and Max Trueman narrowly defeating Ed Crowston and Max Wetton from the Oratory 8/5.

The final was exceptional with great play from all four boys on court. In the end it was the power of Freddie Bristowe ably assisted by his partner Max Jones that prevailed 6/3 6/1.

A great event which saw some amazing performances by the younger entries. 13 year olds Henry Henman (Radley) and Bertie Vallat (Queens) very nearly made the semi-finals and the Seacourt finalists did extremely well to reach the final at just 14 and 15 years old.

Our thanks to Adam Player who marked superbly all day without a break and to the Wellington Club and it’s members for hosting the event. Also, importantly to the T&RA for their sponsorship.

Results: Semi-finals F.Bristowe & M.Jones bt H.Thomas & B.Barnes 8/1 M.Trueman & J.Medlow bt E.Crowston & M.Wetton 8/5 Final F.Bristowe & M.Jones bt M.Trueman & J.Medlow 6/3 6/1

Ed, Max, Max and James

Over 50s Amateur Singles 2019 Top seed and holder Peter Wright beat second seed and past winner William Maltby 6/1 6/1, in a final that was much closer than the score suggests, to retain the Bridgeman Cup at Lord’s on 24 November. Earlier in the competition Simon Talbot/Williams and Charles Human came through the draw to challenge third and fourth seeds Simon Barker and Great Britain Over 50s captain Peter Holmes but the semi -finals and final went in accordance with the seedings.

Jeremy Taylor beat Ronald Paterson in the final of the Plate.

The matches were marked immaculately

by Chris Swallow and Jack Clifton and can be viewed on the MCC YouTube Real Tennis channel.

Results Final P Wright bt W Maltby 6/1 6/1 37

Tennis

Matchplay August 2019 - March 2020

BRITISH OPEN 2019

Camden Riviere lifts the trophy at Queen’s Club

A few of the big hitters were missing this year: Kieran Booth knew that he was not able to challenge for the World Championships in 2020, so I imagine he might pick up the Amateur torch again next year. Steve Virgona is very happy to be a new father, so we await his return to the circuit, and poor Tim Chisholm had a very painful knee operation after the British Open last year. He will threaten the doubles court again soon, but what happens with singles remains to be seen. On a more positive note, the Queen’s professionals were pleased the balls were more round than usual by the end of the tournament…

As such, the standard of the British Open was a little weaker than usual – not just at the top, but there were also far fewer entrants in general to the extent that the Qualifiers held at Radley consisted of only one match, and there was no doubles qualifier at all. Next year (if all the relevant parties agree) Queen’s hopes to host the Qualifiers in the hope that more of London’s Amateurs might be able to join in.

John Lumley turned up in the hopes of surpassing Nicky Howell as they were vying for the last spot in the World Championship challenge. Nicky was sporting a hand injury after a glass had seriously lacerated his hand in multiple places. John needed to reach the final and do better than Nicky, but Ben Taylor-Matthews managed to see him off in the quarters in four sets. Nicky lost in straight sets to Chris Chapman who had made his first journey back from Australia after 38

Tennis forces than he did in the Spring of 2018, but both players were retrieving brilliantly. Rob’s railroads were keeping Camden’s returns pinned down, but Camden had rocked up to the tournament will a bevy of serves that we had not seen from him at Queen’s before as he attempted to restrict Rob’s destructive returns using a trio of high serves and a little more spin on his usual fare. leaving Hampton Court Palace in the summer.

This left the World Championships Challenge process decided with Camden facing Nicky, whilst Chris Chapman would be due to play Ben Taylor-Matthews.

It was a wonderful final to watch, but ultimately Camden won in straight sets 6/3 6/3 6/2, but we expect Rob to pull a few tricks out of the bag for the World Championships on his home ground next year.

It was nice to see Bryn Sayers back on the circuit again, but he had a tough quarters against a Riviere who was on fire for the whole week. Matthieu Sarlangue also had a swift quarter against the World Champion.

Ben and Chris both lost their semis in straight sets to Rob Fahey and Camden Riviere

In the doubles Rob and Nicky managed to see off Bryn and Ben Taylor-Matthews in four sets, although they managed to lose the second to love. Despite Nicky’s hand injury he managed to volley fiercely well throughout at the galleries.

The other semi was far more comprehensive as Camden and John Lumley made very short work of Matthieu and Chris Chapman.

respectively, setting up a final that was quite momentous for a couple of reasons: Firstly if Camden were to win it would be his second ever grand slam; secondly Camden had never beaten Rob at Queen’s.

The final saw some great Tennis as Camden was showing perhaps more resilience to Rob’s

The final was explosive as the World Numbers 1 and 2 nailed ball after ball, but after losing the first two 6/4 6/3 Nicky had to re-dress his hand wound as the stitches had started coming loose.

The last set was over really quite quickly 6/1.

Camden managed to go through the whole British Open without dropping a set and we are all pleased to see he has bounced back into form since his affliction last year.

Report by Ben Ronaldson 39

Tennis

Matchplay August 2019 - March 2020

Under 21 & 24 Singles & Doubles British Open 2020 ​ he 2020 British Open Under 21 Singles, Under 24 Singles and Doubles T Championships, - Sponsored by the Tennis & Rackets Association and The Dedanists’ Society, held at the Middlesex University Real Tennis Court.

Under 24 Doubles Semi Final Zack Smart & Levi Gale beat Charlie Defries & Josh King 6/0 6/2 Under 24 Singles Semi Finals Levi Gale beat Ned Batstone 6/0 5/6 6/0 Rob Shenkman beat Freddie Bristowe 5/6 6/5 6/2 Under 21 Singles Final Freddie Bristowe beat Ned Batstone 6/2 2/6 6/3 Under 24 Singles Final Rob Shenkman beat Levi Gale 6/2 6/1 Under 24 Doubles Final Rob Shenkman & Freddie Bristowe beat Zack Smart & Levi Gale 6/2 6/3

Cattermull Cup 2020 Congratulations to Stonyhurst who beat Wimbledon High School 10-8 in the Final.

40

Tennis There was another fantastic entry for the Cattermull Cup this year, 19 schools were represented, and 21 pairs arrived at Middlesex University Real Tennis Club to once again do battle for the coveted trophy. Over the three days of superb competition, 41 matches were played in great spirit with handicaps ranging from high 20s to mid 60s.

Amateur Singles and Doubles Championships 2020

The final was a match truly worthy the tournament. The match was close all the way until Stonyhurst dealt the conclusive blow.

The Old Stonyhursts sealed a well-deserved victory and with it the championship and the end of a fantastic tournament.

Seacourt Silver Racquet 2020 Congratulations to Freddie Bristowe, Silver Racquet Champion!

Jamie Douglas Jamie Douglas beat Ed Kay to retain the amateur championship Ed Kay and Jamie Giddins retain their amateur doubles title

Andrew Lyons, Luke Danby, Peter Luck-Hille & Freddie Bristowe

Singles Report Both finalists had survived five-set semi-finals prior to Saturday's final.

Ed Kay was engaged in an epic 53-game thriller against doubles partner, Jamie Giddins, recovering from a two game deficit to finally reach the final. Both players know each other's game even better!

Meanwhile, Jamie Douglas was seemingly cruising towards the final against Robert Shenkman, 41

Tennis

before his younger opponent turned the tables winning, the third and fourth games at the rush.

Normal service was resumed in the fifth.

In a repeat of last year's final, the two Bathurst Cup stalwarts fought out a tight first set, which saw Douglas slowly gain the upper hand with some powerful boasts and finding his targets at the right times. More of the same in the second set, despite some strong resistance from Kay, volleying defensively under pressure. At 2-all in the third, the match was at a tipping point but now Kay dug deep, cutting beautifully to perfect length, to capture the set and establish himself in the match. But now Douglas was spurred into action and played devastating Tennis to lead 5-0. A purple game from Kay only delayed the inevitable, with Douglas taking the second of two championship points in the next game, and successfully defend his title.

Matchplay August 2019 - March 2020

Under 20s Singles Amateur Championships 2020 Benedict Yorston takes the Title 6/5 6/3 over Magnus Garson A jam packed day at the British Amateur U20s Championship playing for the Prested Cup. It was fantastic to see so many players coming from far and wide and an extra large entry for our new 'Satellite' division. The high handicap round robin matches were well contested, three Prested juniors came through the box along with Henry Weekes from RTC. In the Prested battle Ben Dickson beat Jake Mead to advance to the final and Henry beat Jack Evers, a relative 'newbie' to Real Tennis competition. In the handicap final both Henry & Ben played far better than their respective handicaps, especially Henry who seemed to drop in handicap points every match he played! Ben put up a great fight but there was no catching Henry today he won the final 6/0.

Onto the Satellite knock out. An incredibly high standard of Tennis across the board. We had most matches go to 3 sets, with the Tennis getting better and better as the day went on. It was hugely impressive to watch and no matter how competitive, all matches were played in the right Jamie Giddins & Ed Kaye retain their amateur doubles title. They beat Jamie Douglas & Peter Wright in the final 6/4 6/5 4/6 6/4.

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Tennis spirit - a credit to all these youngsters. The final of the Satellite would be played between James Rossiter and Magnus Garson. A rematch of last year's final. These two battled hard in the final, in front of a full crowd and after many long points, it was Magnus who won the match 6/3 6/5.

British Over 40 Amateur Doubles Championships 2020

Magnus Garson then advanced to play Benedict Yorston for the British Amateur U20s Championship (Prested Cup). What a match.

Magnus with plenty of matches under his belt, was up against Benedict who was feeling a bit fresher and had a significant handicap lead.

This did not stop him though as he battled his way to 5 all in the 1st set, only to have a set point but let it slip away. Benedict regrouped and pulled away in the second set, showing how far his Tennis has come in the last 12 months. Benedict secured the title 6/5 6/3.

A fantastic final to finish a great day of Junior Tennis. Benedict was awarded the Trophy and a Grays racquet by Mike Carter.

National Over40s Doubles Champions Peter Wright & Steve Taylor Congratulations to the National Over 40s Doubles Champions - Peter Wright & Steve Taylor

Mike Carter presenting the trophy to Benedict

Although a smaller draw than usual, the National Over 40s Doubles still put on a brilliant display of amateur Tennis. Three pairs fairly evenly matched in the high teens meant some incredibly long, hard fought matches. Particularly notable was the SemiFinal between Prested's own Peter Holmes & Tom Shrager v. Holyport’s Nick Baker & Andy Keeley, finishing 6/5 in the 3rd! However the stand out pair of Peter Wright & Steve Taylor looked to be in control throughout the day and eased their way past Sprott & Potter & then Shrager & Holmes to another victory & title.

43

Tennis

Matchplay August 2019 - March 2020

Varsity Tennis 2020

Rory Giddins in action

Oxford win both Men's and Ladies' Real Tennis at MCC Ladies Match Charlotte Hoskin beat Ulla Petti 6/3 6/2 Nanami Yamaguchi beat India Blaksley 6/2 6/0 Eve Shenkman beat Jacqueline Siu 6/0 6/1 Georgie Willis beat Sophia Lewis 6/0 6/0 Eve Shenkman & Nanami Yamaguchi beat Jacqueline Siu & Ulla Petti 6/0 6/1 Georgie Willis & Charlotte Hoskin lost to Sophia Lewis & India Blaksley 1/6 5/6

Oxford Ladies won 5-1 Men's Match Frederick Freeman beat Jack Drew 6/3 6/2 James Bates beat Marc Bonaventura 2/6 6/4 6/2 Benedict Yorston lost to Ivo Macdonald 4/6 6/5 3/6 Rory Giddins beat Ed Hyde 6/1 6/0 Benedict Yorston & James Bates beat Marc Bonaventura & Jack Drew 3/6 6/2 6/0 6/1 Rory Giddins & Frederick Freeman beat Ed Hyde & Ivo Macdonald 6/2 6/3 3/6 5/6 6/5

Oxford Men won 5-1

Oxford teams celebrating 44

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Brodie Cup 2019/20 Seacourt beat Radley 3-2 35 Doubles Max Jones & James Medlow beat Giles Fitzpatrick & Tony Munsey 6/3 6/5 50 Singles: Graham Law lost to Martin McNair 5/6 4/6 40 Singles: Nigel Ireson lost to Max Wetton 5/6 3/6 30 Singles: Max Trueman beat Edward Crowston 5/6 6/2 6/0 45 Doubles: Neil McCue & Matt Boulton beat Edward Alder & Hugo Axel-Berg 6/3 5/6 6/3 Seacourt’s Brodie Cup winning team

Field Trophy 2019/20 Leamington beat Jesmond Dene 5-0 Leamington have, this year, assembled an extremely strong team that, on the evidence of the Field Trophy Final, will push the big three metropolitan teams next year. A 5/0 score line masks the fact that Jesmond Dene put up some feisty resistance throughout the day.

Their 2nd Doubles pair of Felix White and Ollie Taylor seemed to have surprised themselves by going a set up 6/4 against Chris Kroeger and James Coyne but their defiance faded as the Leamington pair played more consistently to mop up the next two sets 6/1, 6/3.

Robert Shenkman is one of the top four amateurs in the country and displayed his quality of stroke in a 6/0 6/0 victory against Paul Hetherington. Robert’s place in the post-match dinner depended on a clean sweep and sadly Paul disappointed the dedans when on one occasion being advantage up!

In the third singles tie, young Alex Dyter put up a spirited performance against Leamington captain Freddie Dixon who, after squeezing through to a 6/5 first set win, had fewer problems in the second set.

In the dead rubbers, Ollie Martyn-Hemphill looks an exciting prospect, taking Tom Seymour Mead to three sets having taken the first 6/5. However, Tom’s experience and determination and quality shone through in relatively easy 6/1, 6/2 set wins.

In the first doubles match Julian Snow and Rob Stewart were far too strong for John Duns and Richard MacAlister – former World Championship contender Julian has lost none of his skills even if years of play has left his hips and knees in need of rejuvenation.

It was a most enjoyable and sociable day with many thanks to James Simpson and Pol Roger for their most generous sponsorship and Tom Granville for marking and masterminding the day.

Good luck to both teams in next year’s Pol Roger.

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Pol Roger Trophy 2019/20 RTC beat Queen's Club 3-2 at the Oratory The Pol Roger trophy is the amateur level inter-club championships, with each match made up of three singles and two doubles matches. RTC have made it to the final for the last two years but lost 3/2 both times. Having made routine progress to the final on March 7 this year they were hoping to break the trend against Queen’s Club.

This meant it all went down to the final match, with Peter Wright and David Watson facing Harry Eddis and Ben Boddington. The RTC pair came flying out of the blocks and stormed the first set 6/0 with some ruthless play, leaving their opponents looking shell shocked.

Queen’s, and in particular Ben, decided to throw caution to the wind and it paid off some outrageous shot-making gave them the second set 6/3. Fittingly it came down to the final set, where Peter and David steadied the ship and some more errors started to show from the Queen’s pair. Ultimately RTC’s quality came through and Peter and David took the final set 6/3, which started the celebrations Up first were Charlie Packham and James Sohl and the flow of superb Pol Roger champagne! against Freddie Kalfayan and Richard Elmitt.

Charlie and James have been a safe bet all A big thank you to all our supporters who season, combining James’s killer instinct at made the journey, to Nick Wood for his advice net with Charlie’s reliable retrieving. The first on the day, to Oratory for hosting the match, set followed this pattern and RTC went ahead Nino Merola and Levi Gale for marking the 6/3. But Queen’s fought back and took it to a matches and to Pol Roger for sponsoring the deciding set, but with some brutal play from competition. The cover photograph shows James helped RTC to close out the match. captain Phil Dunn receiving the trophy from James Simpson MW, managing director of Pol Captain Phil Dunn had his work cut out for him Roger. Matches marked by Nino Merola and playing Matthieu Sarlangue, one of the top- Levi Gale, with Maggie H-T managing the day. ranked amateurs in the world. The match was full of excellent Tennis and Phil definitely gave Results: 2nd Doubles: Charlie Packham & Matthieu something to think about; however it James Sohl beat Freddie Kalfayan & Richard was not to be, and the match went 6/2 6/2 to Elmitt 6/3 3/6 6/3. 1st Singles: Phil Dunn lost Queen’s. to Matthieu Sarlangue 2/6 2/6. 2nd Singles: James Watson beat Matt Shaw 6/2 6/4. 3rd Next James Watson took on Matt Shaw, where Singles: Tom Freeman lost to Jonny Whitaker Queen’s had the advantage on paper. However, 6/5 2/6 1/6. 1st Doubles: Peter Wright & David a determined looking James took to the court Watson beat Harry Eddis & Ben Boddington more quickly than his opponent and won the 6/0 3/6 6/3 first set 6/2. The second set was a tense affair with Matt starting to find his rhythm and James 2nd Doubles: Charlie Packham & James Sohl beat losing his accuracy on serve. But RTC’s man Freddie Kalfayan & Richard Elmitt 6/3 3/6 6/3 found his best Tennis when he needed it and 1st Singles: Phil Dunn lost to Matthieu Sarlangue won the second set 6/4.

2/6 2/6 2nd Singles: James Watson beat Matt Shaw Knowing a win in either of the last two matches 6/2 6/2 would be enough to take the trophy Tom 3rd Singles: Tom Freeman lost to Jonny Whitaker Freeman was up against Jonny Whitaker. 6/5 2/6 1/6 Tom dug deep and came from behind to win 1st Doubles: Peter Wright & David Watson beat a topsy-turvy first set 6/5. However, Jonny Harry Eddis & Ben Boddington 6/0 3/6 6/3 gathered himself and found some fierce hitting Report by James Watson to win the next two sets 6/2 6/1.

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World Championship 2020 Eliminator News Camden wins the Final Eliminator 7-1 Despite a valiant effort by Nicky Howell, Camden Riviere progressed to the 2nd round of the World Championship Eliminator, winning 6/3 6/1 6/1 6/4 6/2.

Chris Chapman beats Ben Taylor-Matthews by 5 sets to 3! An amazing performance by both players saw Chris Chapman progress to the 2nd round of the World Championship Eliminator, winning 6/4 1/6 6/4 4/6 6/4 4/6 6/4 6/3.

Camden Riviere beat Chris Chapman in the Final Eliminator, 6/3 6/0 6/1 6/5 6/4 1/6 6/1 6/1

On 27 January a near-capacity crowd of 130 eager spectators gathered at the magnificent three-tiered Oratory court to see the first bout of the 2020 Men’s World Championship Elimination process. The match pitted the highest ranked player in the world, Camden Riviere, attempting to regain the title that he won so convincingly in 2016, against Nick Howell, ranked at number five, who spent his formative years at this venue. The format was the best of nine sets, with four sets to be played on the first day.

On paper the match appeared to be one-sided, as there was a gulf between their respective handicaps but Nick, making his first challenge for the title, was determined to put in a valiant effort in front of his voluble supporters.

Mention should be made of the courage of a small group of Oratory members who underwrote the event and who then put in a magnificent effort to promote the occasion in a short space of time. Finally, we were indebted to that most consistent and generous sponsor of Real Tennis, James Simpson of Pol Roger, and to a new supporter, the West Berkshire Brewery.

Report by CJ Ronaldson 47

International Dutch Real Tennis Association

By Theo Bollerman, President

T

he year started well with two groups of Dutch playing in different countries. One group consisting of André Driessen, Rogier Botting, Marian van Koesveld, Feikje Nassy, Erik Gunter, Henk Jan Meere, Florentine Molkenboer and top player Andreas van Braam Houckgeest, had their yearly meeting in Cambridge with a good enough result. The Cambridge team beat the Dutch 7–5. Many thanks again to Christie Marrian, who organized the meeting for the umpteenth time.

The other group stayed in Australia. In Ballarat Lucie and Theo Bollerman competed in the lovely handicap doubles tournament for the Joey Cup. They came third. Robert Jolly held one of his great speeches. After that the trip went to Melbourne where they joined forces with Huub and Kim van Boeckel to play the Roo. Saskia Bollerman was also there but could not play in the Australian Open and Ladies World Championships as she was still injured. Her hip procedure took place in June; after that she was not allowed to do any sport for at least six months.

The yearly Dutch week at Radley College was attended by some 60 people of which 42 competed in the Dutch Real Tennis Championships and the handicap doubles tournament.

In the absence of Saskia, Stephanie Zaaijer was a worthy successor, who later that year went to the RMTC for a three-month period to assist in the pro-shop. Second place was for Marian van Koesveld. The men’s tournament was won again by Paul Bollerman in a very good match against Hugo van der Meer. Many extra activities were undertaken; a group of Dutch even took part in a session of Eton Fives. Of course golf, Rackets, fives and lawn tennis were also very fashionable. It was a great week again, made possible by Chris Ronaldson, his assistant Nino Merola and the super friendly ground staff who prepare the grass courts especially for the Dutch.

By Ben North, Secretary

D

uring 2019, the Irish Real Tennis Association made several playing trips to the UK, starting with Jesmond Dene in January. In March, we successfully defended our title in the Celtic Challenge, playing at Radley against a Scottish side, and also played against The Haphazard at Hardwick House. April saw us visit Bristol for a fixture, and then in June we were back at Radley for our 2019 Open Championship, won by Henry Henman. A trip in July combined two fixtures: one against Hatfield House, and one against MCC. Our 2019 Irish Closed Championship was held at Prested Hall in September, where James Rossiter took the title. Also in September, we took part in the Brigands tournament at Hardwick House. We are very grateful to all the clubs, professionals, and members who welcomed us so warmly over the course of the year.

It was another year of little progress with regard to the Dublin Real Tennis Court. We have

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continued to make ourselves available to the relevant authorities, to help them to satisfy the requirement of the 2016 planning permission: “The developer shall submit a detailed proposal to the planning authority for the temporary re-instatement of the penthouse galleries and any other essential features required for playing Real Tennis matches.” Our offers have not been taken up to date; nonetheless, we continue to press for the restoration of this historic court to its intended purpose.

We keep our website www.irishrealtennis.ie up to date with news of playing trips and any other developments.

The IRTPA 2019/20 Season

By Susie Falkner

T

he first half of the season was as it should have been. Events played, players travelling and competing for the all-important race points with the British Open being the last ranking tournament before the four players would be known and their position within the race being finalised. For those who do not know, the race is the method the four top finishing players are selected for going through to the world eliminators for the right to play the defending Champion in the challenge.

The four players were Camden Riviere, Chris Chapman, Ben Taylor-Matthews and Nick Howell.

The first round of the eliminators saw Riviere versus Howell and Chapman versus TaylorMatthews. Riviere defeated Howell at The Oratory and Chapman defeated TaylorMatthews at The Royal Melbourne Tennis Club. The final eliminator was played between Riviere and Chapman at The Boston Tennis & Racquet Club with Riviere defeating Chapman.

The IRTPA would like to thank these three clubs for hosting the events and their work behind the scenes to make them successful, with each venue packed out with spectators.

The IRTPA Championships were held at the Wellington Real Tennis Club. The week and the Tennis events were sponsored by Peter Luck Hille. Peter’s continued generosity to Tennis remains unabated and without this Tennis would be in a very sad state. From

all of the association “Thank You”. The finals were attended by HRH The Earl of Wessex KG, GCVO who presented the three trophies to the winner of the IRTPA Championship, the Ged Eden IRTPA Satellite and the Taylor Cup. The season’s results are: Real Tennis Champions Trophy Rob Fahey beat John Lumley French Open Singles Camden Riviere beat Rob Fahey French Open Doubles Camden Riviere & John Lumley beat Rob Fahey & Nick Howell The Taylor Cup Nino Merola beat John Woods-Casey Ged Eden IRTPA Satellite John Woods-Casey beat Adam Player Peter Luck Hille IRTPA Championships Rob Fahey beat Bryn Sayers British Open Singles Camden Riviere beat Rob Fahey British Open Doubles Camden Riviere & John Lumley beat Rob Fahey & Nick Howell Australian Open Singles Chris Chapman beat Kieran Booth Australian Open Doubles Chris Chapman & Nick Howell beat Kieran Booth & Bret Richardson U.S. Open Singles Camden Riviere beat Nick Howell U.S. Open Doubles Camden Riviere & Tim Chisholm beat Steve Virgona & Ben Taylor-Matthews 49

International The IRTPA National League 2019/20 The IRTPA National League is an opportunity for British players to compete seriously at all levels at a variety of clubs. Until Covid-19 reared its ugly head the National League was thriving. By 23rd March nearly all the round robin matches had been played amongst seven divisions with over 240 players in 54 teams. Many thanks to Chris Ronaldson who scheduled all the matches.

No finals could be played and so the Most Valuable Players and the Ladder Winners of each division were calculated. Congratulations especially to Hatfield House Tennis Court Club who won three of the divisions and Seacourt who won two.

Most Valuable Players Div 1/2 Neil Mackenzie Div 3/4 Tom Bomford Div 5 Matt Potter Div 6 Ivo MacDonald Div 7 Nick Brodie Div 8 Max Trueman Div 9 Mark Gillespie Team Winners Div 1/2 Queen’s 1 Div 3/4 HHTCC 1 Div 5 Seacourt 1 Div 6 HHTCC 2 Div 7 HHTCC 3 Div 8 Seacourt 2 Div 9 MURTC 2 The good news is that we have a sponsor for 2020/21 FLM Wealth Management www.flmltd.com differs from other financial advice/wealth management companies (and other ‘partners’ and practices of St James' Place) because they employ an in-house team of highly qualified and experienced tax advisers who are specialists in the financial advisory industry who work side-by-side with FLM's Chartered Financial Advisors.

The Premier League will be invigorated and we hope all Tennis players will be delighted that the team at FLM Wealth Management is taking an active interest in our great game.

50

Real Tennis World Rankings

2020 www.irtpa.com/world-rankings/ Ladies’ Real Tennis World Rankings

Men’s Real Tennis World Rankings Rank Player

Singles Handicap

Rank Player

Points 101529

1.

Claire Fahey

Rob Fahey

78312

2.

Lea van Der Zwalmen

16.5

3.

Chris Chapman

54233

3.

Kate Leeming

24.2

4.

Ben Taylor-Matthews

43662

4.

Tara Lumley

24.5

5.

Nick Howell

33110

5.

Saskia Bollerman

28.0

6.

John Lumley

28938

6.

Nicola Doble

30.2

7.

Steve Virgona

27699

7.

Penny Lumley

30.3

8.

Matthieu Sarlangue

18292

8.

Sue Haswell

31.5

9.

Bryn Sayers

15880

9.

Marie Leduc

32.3

10.

Kieran Booth

15150

10.

Becca Lunnon

34.6

1.

Camden Riviere

2.

Junior Real Tennis World Rankings

5.8

Singles Handicap

Rank Player 1.

William Flynn (Seacourt)

15.0

2.

Max Trueman (Seacourt)

24.0

3.

Ben Dickinson (Newport)

27.1

4.

James Medlow (Seacourt)

27.9

5.

Oliver Pridmore (Hobart)

30.4

6.

Patrick Smart (Queen’s)

31.5

7.

Alfred Backhouse (Radley)

33.8

8.

Bertie Vallat (Queen’s)

35.2

9.

Magnus Garson (Oxford)

35.8

10.

Sam Legg (Hobart)

35.8

51

International

By James Zug

T

he Unites States Court Tennis Association is at a major inflection point. Previous to March, we were functioning at a superb level. We had more than eleven hundred active members, our highest-ever. Courts were never busier. Prize money was at its highest mark.

Founded in November 2009, our monthly e-newsletter, Chase the First, celebrated its one-hundredth issue. Our 2019-20 fixtures list was never more crowded with thirty-seven separate weekends of tournaments—national championships, handicap events, four womenonly events, the return of the Parent & Child, our summer camp for juniors and casual doubles events that feature elaborate costumes.

Professionally, the USCTA National League managed to wrap up not one but two distinct seasons within weeks of each other. The sixtyseventh U.S. Open went for the second time to Chicago, where Billy saw Camden Riviere win his ninth singles title (tying Wayne Davies atop the all-time list) and Riviere & Tim Chisholm took their ninth doubles title (beating Ben Taylor-Matthews & Steve Virgona 6/5 6/5 5/6 6/3). Two weeks later, at the very end of February, the Tennis & Racquet Club hosted the Final Eliminator. Over the match, Chris Chapman hit more grilles (seventeen to fifteen) and winning galleries (five to one) and served fourteen more points than Riviere, but Riviere won seven sets to one.

A fifth of our membership gathered in New York in December for our twenty-second annual dinner, held during the eighty-sixth annual Whitney Cup. We handed out our yearly awards, including the George Plimpton Prize to Richard Travers, who came all the way from Melbourne almost literally for the night. We also inducted Bill Vogt into our hall of fame. The most poignant note was perhaps when we remembered all the members who

52

had passed away in 2019, especially Tommy Greevy, who had been a beloved professional in Philadelphia and then Tuxedo since 1956.

A high moment came when a dozen former Van Alen and Clothier cup alumni joined the victorious 2019 team for a celebratory photograph.

Change happens in our game at a slightly slower pace than in the wider world. Typically, tennis (with a small t) has been an oasis of stability in an ever-changing world. Many of us appreciate the timelessness of the game, how it has remained more or less the same, that a player from the seventeenth century would instantly recognize and understand the game today. The current pandemic marks a decisive break with those many, many decades of continuity.

In contrast, the spring was incredibly challenging due to the pandemic. All of our courts went dark. We had to postpone sixteen fixtures, including four professional tournaments, one world championship and our annual summer junior academy. Three professionals were furloughed. Members fell ill, and we lost a special person in our game, Arthur Whitcomb of New York.

Things began to slowly turn around, though. In early May, Aiken reopened, and in early June, Newport followed suit, so two of our courts began to welcome play again and more were set to follow in the summer. The efforts to build a Tennis court in Charleston resumed as well.

The biggest news, like with so many things in the past few years, came out of Washington.

But instead of politics, it was about our game.

A quarter century after Prince’s Court opened, a new facility might appear ten minutes down the road. This is at Westwood Country Club in Vienna, Virginia. Similar to Prince’s Court, the larger building will include a few indoor lawn tennis courts and then a magnificent Court Tennis facility. Like with Charleston, twothirds of the estimated $3 million price tag has already been raised. A year from now, I hope I can happily report in this publication that both courts have actually broken ground.

International

Comité français

By Tim Batten PARIS

FONTAINEBLEAU

The 2019 season began as usual with the French Open with support of the French Tennis Federation and 10 corporate sponsors. This year welcomed 15 men and four women, from all four continents and celebrated victories

by Chris Chapman’s and Claire Fahey for the singles titles. This was the 2nd year the Paris club streamed the event, broadening access and visibility of the club and tournament.

During the rest of the fall and early winter, the club held four Inter-club events verses Queen’s, Oxford, the Dedanists & Leamington. While the Bronze national tournament took place in Fontainebleau as usual, the Silver Racquet was won by a new member Julien Tizot, extending his lawn tennis skills to the Paume court. The last event of the season before COVID 19 shut down the club was La Coupe de Thélème (previously known as Coupe Antoine-Henri Masson), a 10-20 handicap tournament which welcomed some players from the UK- the semi-finals and finals were streamed/recorded as well.

Like many other clubs we aim to salvage what is left of the season in late June and July and wish all players a healthy and safe conclusion to the season and a strong re-start in the fall.

New professional since October, Guillaume DORTU, is revitalizing the club and its busy junior school.

The beginning of the season in 2019 was dedicated to improve the club facilities and preparing the 30th anniversary of the court reopening in 1990.

The celebrations were supposed to start in April 2020 with the first edition of the French Ladies Championship, continuing throughout the year with social events, tournaments, demonstrations of ball games in the castle (Pallone col Bracciale, Longue Paume, Pasaka), concert and lasting with an exhibition about Real Tennis History in Fontainebleau.

In June, the 500 year anniversary of the diplomatic meeting between Francis I and Henry VIII should have been also the occasion of the first edition of the Cloth of Gold Trophy celebrating the brand new twining of the Cercle du Jeu de Paume de Fontainebleau with the Royal Tennis Court (Hampton Court).

Unfortunately all of these events had to be postponed to 2021 which is going to be an awkward but hopefully joyful 30+1 anniversary.

BORDEAUX

PAU

Mr Bayrou has been reelected Mayor of Pau. We hope we can now move forwards with this Club is finally open. Excellent news after so fantastic court and get it back to what it was many years without a club. Opening was initially. delayed due to Covid19, but now running.

54

TENNIS MATCHPLAY................................

British Junior Open Singles Championships The Queen’s Club, 16th -18th August Under 18 Final William Flynn bt Patrick Smart 2/6 6/1 6/0 Under 16 Final James Medlow bt Max Trueman 6/3 6/3 Under 14 Final Bertie Vallat bt Henry Henman 6/2 6/2 Under 12 Final Max Warner bt George Jameson 8/7

Quarter-finals Ben Taylor-Matthews bt John Lumley 6/5 2/6 6/2 6/4 Camden Riviere bt Bryn Sayers 6/3 6/1 6/2 Chris Chapman bt Nick Howell 6/2 6/4 6/4 Rob Fahey bt Matthieu Sarlangue 6/1 6/2 6/4

Henry Leaf 2020 The Queen’s Club 28th - 29th September Final Eton bt Charterhouse 6/2 6/0

Final Camden Riviere bt Rob Fahey 6/3 6/3 6/2

IRTPA CHAMPIONSHIPS Wellington College, 7th - 14th October Peter Luck Hille IRTPA Championships Rob Fahey bt Bryn Sayers 6/5 6/2 6/2 Ged Eden IRTPA Satellite John WoodsCasey bt Adam Player 6/2 6/3 Taylor Cup Nino Merola bt John WoodsCasey 6/2 6/5 British Under 19 Doubles Championships Wellington College, 17th November F Bristowe & M Jones bt M Trueman & J Medlow 6/3 6/1 British Over 50s Amateur Singles Lord’s, 22nd – 24th November P Wright bt W Maltby 6/1 6/1 National Under 18 Handicap Singles Wellington College 14th – 15th December Toby Barton bt Hugo Pennant 8/7 T&RA British Open Singles and Doubles Championships The Queen’s Club, 12th – 21st November Singles First Round Craig Greenhalgh bt Nino Merola 6/1 5/6 6/4 6/4 Will Burns bt Aaron Flippence 6/3 6/3 6/1 Jamie Giddins bt Neil Mackenzie 3/6 3/6 6/0 6/5 6/1 Jamie Douglas bt Robert Shenkman 6/2 6/5 6/5 Josh Smith bt Rory Giddins 6/4 6/3 6/4 Freddie Bristowe bt Rod McNaughtan 6/2 6/3 6/5 Claire Fahey bt Luke Danby 6/4 6/1 6/2 Darren Long bt Zak Eadle 6/4 6/5 6/0 Second Round Ben Taylor-Matthews (4) bt Will Burns 6/0 6/0 6/1 Rob Fahey (2) v Craig Greenhalgh 4/6 6/1 6/1 6/1 Matthieu Sarlangue (8) bt Josh Smith 6/1 6/3 6/1 Bryn Sayers (7) bt Jamie Giddins 6/1 6/0 6/2 John Lumley (6) bt Claire Fahey 6/1 6/1 6/2 Nick Howell (5) bt Darren Long 6/3 6/0 6/2 Chris Chapman (3) bt Freddie Bristowe 6/3 6/0 6/1 Camden Riviere (1) bt Jamie Douglas 6/2 6/1 6/0

Semi-finals Rob Fahey bt Ben Taylor-Matthews 6/4 6/2 6/1 Camden Riviere bt Chris Chapman 6/1 6/2 6/2

Doubles First Round Neil Mackenzie & Josh Smith bt Will Burns & Jon Dawes 6/3 6/3 6/2 Darren Long & Robert Shenkman bt Alistair Lumsden & Ben Ronaldson 6/1 6/2 6/3 Nino Merola & Adam Player bt Claire Fahey & Rod McNaughtan (5) 3/6 6/5 6/5 6/3 Jamie Douglas & Peter Wright (6) bt Adam Dolman & Zak Eadle 6/2 6/2 6/5 Quarter-finals John Lumley & Camden Riviere (1) bt Darren Long & Robert Shenkman 6/1 6/0 6/2 Bryn Sayers & Ben Taylor-Matthews (4) bt Nino Merola & Adam Player 6/2 6/5 6/2 Rob Fahey & Nick Howell (2) bt Neil Mackenzie & Josh Smith 6/1 6/4 6/1 Chris Chapman & Matthieu Sarlangue (3) bt Jamie Douglas & Peter Wright 3/6 6/1 3/6 6/4 6/3 Semi-finals Rob Fahey & Nick Howell bt Bryn Sayers & Ben Taylor-Matthews 6/3 0/6 6/3 6/2 John Lumley & Camden Riviere bt Chris Chapman & Matthieu Sarlangue 6/1 6/0 6/1 Final John Lumley & Camden Riviere bt Rob Fahey & Nick Howell 6/4 6/3 6/1 Under 21 & 24 Singles & Doubles and Under 21 Singles Championship MURTC, 2nd to 5th January Under 21 Singles Semi-final Ned Batstone bt Zack Smart 6/1 6/3 Final Freddie Bristowe bt Ned Batstone 6/2 2/6 6/3 Under 24 Singles Group 1: Freddie Bristowe bt Oliver Taylor 8/3 Levi Gale bt Zack Smart 8/2 Levi Gale bt Oliver Taylor 8/1 Freddie Bristowe bt Zack Smart 8/2 Oliver Taylor bt Zack Smart 8/6 Levi Gale bt Freddie Bristowe 8/5 Levi Gale and Freddie Bristowe qualify

RESULTS

Group 2: Rob Shenkman bt Ned Batstone 8/3 Rob Shenkman bt Charlie Defries 8/2 Rob Shenkman bt Josh King 8/0 Ned Batstone bt Charlie Defries 8/1 Ned Batstone bt Josh King 8/4 Josh King bt Charlie Defries 8/5 Rob Shenkman and Ned Batstone qualify Semi-finals Levi Gale bt Ned Batstone 6/0 5/6 6/0 Rob Shenkman bt Freddie Bristowe 5/6 6/5 6/2 Final Rob Shenkman bt Levi Gale 6/2 6/1 Under 24 Doubles Semi-final Zack Smart & Levi Gale bt Charlie Defries & Josh King 6/0 6/2 Final Rob Shenkman & Freddie Bristowe bt Zack Smart & Levi Gale 6/2 6/3 Cattermull Cup (Alumni Handicap) MURTC, 18th – 20th January Stonyhurst bt Wimbledon High School 10/8 World Challenge Eliminators Oratory, 27th January Camden Riviere bt Nick Howell 6/3 6/1 6/1 6/4 6/2 Royal Melbourne Tennis Club, 28th & 30th January Chris Chapman bt Ben Taylor-Matthews 6/4 1/6 6/4 4/6 6/4 4/6 6/4 6/3 Amateur Singles & Doubles Championships Queen’s Club, 15th – 23rd February Singles 1st Round R Giddins bt A Dolman 4/6 6/4 6/4 6/3 F Bristowe bt W Flynn 5/6 6/2 6/3 6/4 A Duncliffe-Vines bt C-A Hurstel 4/6 6/1 6/5 (ret.)

T Bomford bt P Dunn 6/4 6/2 5/6 6/5 Quarter-final J Douglas (1) bt F Bristowe 6/1 6/1 6/1 R Shenkman bt R Giddins w/o J Giddins (4) bt A Ducliffe-Vines 6/0 6/0 6/0 E Kay bt T Bomford 6/1 6/1 6/3 Semi-finals E Kay bt J Giddins 5/6 5/6 6/5 6/3 6/5 J Douglas bt R Shenkman 6/2 6/0 0/6 2/6 6/2 Final Jamie Douglas bt Ed Kay 6/3 6/2 2/6 6/1 Doubles Quarter-finals A Dolman & J Acheson-Gray bt P Jarvis & R Elmitt 6/2 6/4 6/1 E Kay & J Giddins (2) bt N Baker & C Kroeger 6/0 6/0 6/0 F Dixon & W Morse bt P Dunn & T Bomford 6/3 6/2 2/6 6/4

55

RESULTS

................................TENNIS MATCHPLAY

Semi-finals E Kay & J Giddins bt A Dolman & J AchesonGray 6/4 2/6 6/2 4/6 6/0 J Douglas & P Wright bt F Dixon & W Morse 6/1 6/3 6/2 Final E Kay & J Giddins bt J Douglas & P Wright 6/4 6/5 4/6 6/4 Under 20s Singles Amateur Championships Prested Hall, 22nd – 23rd February Benedict Yorston bt Magnus Garson 6/5 6/3 World Challenge Final Eliminator Boston, 24th & 26th February Camden Riviere bt Chris Chapman 6/3 6/0 6/1 6/5 6/4 1/6 6/1 6/1 British Over 40 Amateur Doubles Championships Prested Hall, 28th February – 1st March Peter Wright & Steve Taylor bt Peter Holmes and Tom Shrager 6/0 6/1 Varsity Tennis Lord’s 28th – 29th February Ladies Singles Charlotte Hoskin beat Ulla Petti 6/3 6/2 Nanami Yamaguchi beat India Blaksley 6/2 6/0 Eve Shenkman beat Jacqueline Siu 6/0 6/1 Georgie Willis beat Sophia Lewis 6/0 6/0 Ladies Doubles Eve Shenkman & Nanami Yamaguchi bt Jacqueline Siu & Ulla Petti 6/0 6/1 Sophia Lewis & India Blaksley bt Georgie Willis & Charlotte Hoskin 6/1 6/5 Men’s Singles Frederick Freeman bt Jack Drew 6/3 6/2 James Bates bt Marc Bonaventura 2/6 6/4 6/2 Ivo Macdonald bt Benedict Yorston 6/4 5/6 6/3 Rory Giddins bt Ed Hyde 6/1 6/0 Men’s Doubles Benedict Yorston & James Bates bt Marc Bonaventura & Jack Drew 3/6 6/2 6/0 6/1 Rory Giddins & Frederick Freeman bt Ed Hyde & Ivo Macdonald 6/2 6/3 3/6 5/6 6/5 Inter Schools Doubles Level Championship Seniors A – The Queen’s Club Wellington bt Eton 8/4 Seniors B – The Queen’s Club Canford bt Eton 6/3 Under 16s – Radley College St Pauls bt Winchester Under 14s– Wellington College Winchester bt Canford 1 6/4 Under 13s – The Oratory School MCS bt Westbourne 6/1

56

Pol Roger Cup Quarter-finals Moreton Morrell beat MCC 3-2 Tom Bomford bt Horatio Carey 6/0 6/4 Tom Lewis lost to Neil Roxburgh 2/6 2/6 Philip Shaw-Hamilton bt Nick Warner 6/2 6/3 Martin Riogers & Rich Wills lost to Peter Jarvis & Jolyon Symonds 3/6 2/6 MMTCC second doubles w/o Seacourt beat Cambridge 5-0 Luke Danby bt Alex Evans 6/1 6/0 Tom Weaver bt Ed Pearson 6/2 6/0 Will Flynn bt Andy Smith 6/2 6/0 Paul Weaver & Hugh Latham bt Duncan Colquhoun & Jules Camp 6/3 /6/3 Mark McMurrugh & Henry Liddington bt Andrew Petrie & Mark Perriton 6/0 6/1 Queen’s Club beat Petworth House 3-2 Jonny Whitaker lost to Angus Williams 3/6 2/6 Harry Eddis bt Freddie Bristowe 6/4 6/4 Matt Shaw bt Mark Drysdale 6/4 6/2 1st Doubles: mitt lost to Adam Dolman & Nick Harris 6/4 5/6 1/6 Nick James & Freddie Kalfayan bt Charles Fuente & Bill Chambers 6/1 6/3 Semi-finals RTC beat Seacourt 4-0 Charlie Packham & James Sohl bt Charlie Danby & Mark McMurragh 6/1 6/0 Peter Wright bt Tom Weaver 6/2 6/1 Phil Dunn bt Will Flynn 6/2 retired James Watson w/o Queen’s Club beat Moreton Morrell 5-0 Matthieu Sarlangue bt Tom Bomford 6/1 6/2 Harry Eddis bt Tom Lewis 6/0 6/0 Richard Elmitt bt Phillip Shaw-Hamilton 6/3 6/4 Richard Owen & Mike Bailey bt Martin Rogers & Rich Wills 6/2 6/1 Nick James & John Prenn bt Fred Freeman & Vaughan Hamilton 6/3 6/5 Final Oratory, 7th March RTC beat Queen’s Club 3-2 Charlie Packham & James Sohl bt Freddie Kalfayan & Richard Elmitt 6/3 3/6 6/3 Phil Dunn lost to Matthieu Sarlangue 2/6 2/6 James Watson bt Matt Shaw 6/2 6/2 Tom Freeman lost to Jonny Whitaker 6/5 2/6 1/6 Peter Wright & David Watson bt Harry Eddis & Ben Boddington 6/0 3/6 6/3

Julian Snow & Rob Stewart bt Stewart Licudi and James Bates 5/6 6/5 6/4 Robert Shenkman bt Rob Walker 6/0 6/0 Freddie Dixon bt Anthony Bewes 5/6 6/4 6/2 James Coyne lost to Charlie Defries 6/5 1/6 1/6 Semi-finals Holyport lost to Jesmond Dene 2-3 Nick Baker lost to Paul Hetherington 2/6 6/2 1/6 Robert Peel & Andy Keeley bt Richard MacAlister & Mark Dickinson 6/5 6/2 Ed Popplewell lost to Alex Dyter 1/6 0/6 Simon Talbot-Williams & David Barker bt John Duns & Simon Johnston 6/1 6/0 Charles Human lost to Oliver Taylor 5/6 5/6 Hatfield lost to Leamington 1-4 Jonathan Fisher & Joe Thompson lost to Andy Dixon & Will Todd 2/6 2/6 Josh King lost to Simon Shenkman 4/6 0/6 Nick Lloyd lost to Tom Seymour-Mead 2/6 0/6 Nick Brodie lost to Graham Defries 5/6 6/2 5/6 Mark Devonald-Smith & Martin Richards beat John Lillie & Chris French 6/0 6/4 Final Moreton Morrell, 7th March Leamington beat Jesmond Dene 5-0 Chris Kroeger & James Coyne bt Felix White & Ollie Taylor 4/6 6/1 6/3 Robert Shenkman bt Paul Hetherington 6/0 6/0 Freddie Dixon bt Alex Dyter 6/5 6/3 Tom Seymour Mead bt Ollie MartynHemphill 5/6 6/1 6/2 Julian Snow & Rob Stewart bt John Duns & Richard Macalister 6/0 6/0 Brodie Cup Preliminary Round Prested lost to Petworth 2-3 30 Singles w/o to Prested Dom Palmer Tomkinson & Richard Ramjane lost to Hereward Taylor & Simon Armstrong 3/6 1/6 Clive Turner lost to Jon Petersen 1/6 4/6 Mike Cotton lost to Simon Fisk 3/6 3/6 Richard Pilcher & Amy Pye beat David Fortune & Adrian Warburton 6/5 6/3 Oratory lost to Holyport 0-5 Alex Orchard & Dave Lambert lost to Richard Merryweather & Attila Kerekes 4/6 4/6 Mark Candlish lost to Renaud Besnard 6/3 4/6 3/6 Vaughan Williams lost to Neil Harrison-Smith 2/6 1/6 Richard Dilger lost to Tim Bertram 4/6 3/6 Derek O’Sullivan & Gordon Tanner lost to Hugh Kingsmill Moore & Alex Fell 0/6 6/4 1/6

Field Trophy 1st Round Jesmond Dene beat Prested Hall 3-2 Mark Dickinson & Duncan Edwards bt Stuart Levett & Mike Norgrove 6/0 6/0 Ollie Martyn-Hemphill bt Peter Holmes 6/5 5/6 6/2 Alex Dyter lost to Tom Shrager 4/6 6/3 4/6 Paul Hetherington lost to Matt Potter 3/6 6/3 5/6 Richard MacAlister & Ollie Taylor bt Colin Sprott & David Hunter 6/4 6/2

Seacourt beat Jesmond Dene 3-2 James Medlow bt Richard MacAlister 6/2 6/2 Nigel Ireson lost to Richard White 6/5 4/6 4/6 Graham Law bt Dean Juric 6/5 6/3 Max Jones & Max Trueman bt Ian Waddelow & Nigel Penna 6/4 6/5 Matt Boulton & Adrian Warden lost to Will Robertson & Peter Dean 6/5 4/6 1/6

Leamington beat Oxford 4-1 Tom Seymour Mead & Chris Kroeger bt Frazer MacDiarmid and Julien Fox 6/0 6/3

Manchester lost to Newmarket 2-3 James Lindrup & Andy Nevett lost to Ken Smith & Chris Hollingsworth 3/6 5/6

TENNIS MATCHPLAY................................

David Summersgill beat Charlie Wells w/o Andrew McDonald lost to Tom Marriott 2/6 3/6 Dave Stevinson lost to Charles Pittaway 5/6 4/6 Graham Heap & Paul Seakins beat Mark Gooden & John Burnett 6/3 2/6 6/4 First Round HRTC lost to Hardwick 1-4 Renaud Besnard & Andy Parkinson lost to Nick Parkinson & Eric Walker 5/6 4/6 Richard Lawrence lost to Simon Constantine 6/4 0/4 retired Neil Harrison-Smith lost to Juliette Lambert 6/4 5/6 4/6 Tim Bertram lost to David Enticknap 3/6 0/6 Nick Broad & Alex Fell bt Katie Leppard & Peter Mawson 6/3 6/3 RTC beat Queen’s Club 3-2 Fred Satow bt Nick Browne 0/6 6/4 6/5 Owen Saunders & Dick Cowling bt Luke Readman & Bill Colegrave 6/4 6/4 Ivan Barker lost to James Skeggs 5/6 2/6 Sophie Dannreuther & Araminta Oldham lost to Simon Mansfield & Michael Lingens 3/6 1/6 Karen Prottey bt Jan Vleck 6/3 3/6 6/3 MCC beat Leamington 4-1 James Pittaway & Henry Stuttaford bt Sam Gill & Adam Stokes 6/4 6/4 Rory Turner lost to John Lillie 1/6 4/6 Tom Carew Hunt bt Simon Gill 6/3 6/3 Ben Martin bt Nigel Wright 6/1 3/6 6/1 Ronald Paterson & Tom Hemingway bt Henry Bryan & Kevin Higgins 6/4 6/1 Radley beat Cambridge 4-1 Matthew Alden lost to Neil Stutchbury 5/6 2/6 Martin McNair bt Gerald Smith 6/5 6/1 Rupert Henson & Tony Munsey bt Julian Stafford & Andy Smith 6/4 3/6 6/4 Magnus Garson bt Aaron Wienkers 6/1 6/5 Ed Alder & Dom Stone bt Christie Marrian & Ben Geytenbeek 6/2 6/2 Newmarket lost to Middlesex 0-5 Ken Smith & Steve Milton lost to Stuart Kerr & David Offen 5/6 6/4 2/6 Tom Marriott lost to Mark Rayner 5/6 2/6 Mark Elliott lost to Mark Gillespie 3/6 2/6 Mark Gooden & John Burnett lost to Mark Heffernan & Sam Powell 4/6 5/6 Dan Mules lost to Dave Davies 5/6 2/6 Oxford lost to Wellington 2-3 Julian Fox lost to Sue Haswell 6/4 3/6 2/6 Fraser MacDiarmird & James Kempton lost to Graeme Marks & Francis Moore 3/6 4/6 Natalie Barber won (walkover) Rafa Perez-Salazar & Quentin Geroult bt Dowie & Spurle 6/2 6/3 Derek Williams lost to Clive Watson 2/6 6/5 1/6 Petworth lost to Hatfield 1-4 Julian Wilkinson lost to John Savage 4/6 3/6 Hereward Taylor & Simon Armstrong lost to Alex Brodie & Chris Handley 6/3 4/6 1/6 Jon Petersen lost to David Hudson 4/6 6/4 3/6 David Fortune & Adrian Warburton lost to Mike Asplin & Don Fahrenheim 5/6 3/6

Simon Fisk bt Adrian Akers 5/6 6/4 6/4 Seacourt bt Moreton Morrell 3-2 James Medlow bt Alan Moug 6/2 6/1 Nigel Ireson lost to Mark Leefe 6/5 1/6 2/6 Graham Law lost to David Harris 5/6 2/6 Max Jones & Max Trueman bt Simon Hobson & Mark Maclure 6/4 6/3 Matt Boulton & Adrian Warden bt David Prophet & Jeremy Hawkins 6/5 6/1 Quarter-finals Wellington beat Hatfield 4-1 Graeme Marks & Francis Moore bt Alex Brodie & Chris Handley 4/6 6/1 6/3 Sue Haswell lost to Nick Brodie 5/6 3/6 Richard Henman btDavid Hudson 6/3 6/5 Clive Watson bt Martin Tucker 6/3 3/6 6/2 Drew Dowie & Willem Sweet bt Mike Asplin & Dom Fahrenheim 6/5 6/5

RESULTS

Max Jones & James Medlow bt Giles Fitzpatrick & Tony Munsey 6/3 6/5 Graham Law lost to Martin McNair 5/6 4/6 Nigel Ireson lost to Max Wetton 5/6 3/6 Max Trueman bt Edward Crowston 5/6 6/2 6/0 Neil McCue & Matt Boulton bt Edward Alder & Hugo Axel-Berg 6/3 5/6 6/3 Category E Open Championship (Level Singles for Handicaps 40-49) Prested Hall, 20th - 22nd March Handicap 45-49 Bill Sproul bt Tim Harper Handicap 40-44 Chris Manson bt Alex Brodie

Radley beat MCC 5-0 Ed Alder & Henry Henman bt Robert Kilgour & Henry Stuttaford 6/4 6/4 Edward Crowston bt Rory Turner 6/4 6/2 Magnus Garson bt Tom Carew-Hunt 6/2 2/6 6/2 Martin McNair bt Ben Martin 6/1 2/6 6/2 Giles Fitzpatrick & Tony Munsey bt Ronald Paterson & Tom Hemingway 6/5 6/4 Seacourt beat Hardwick 3-2 James Medlow bt Simon Constantine 6/4 6/4 Nigel Ireson lost to Juliette Lambert 6/3 4/6 3/6 Jerry Way lost to David Entichnap 5/6 1/6 Max Jones & Max Trueman bt Nick Parkinson & Eric Walker4/6 6/2 6/1 Matt Boulton & Graham Law bt Katie Leppard & Peter Mawson 6/4 6/4 Middlesex lost to RTC 2-3 Mark Rayner bt Fred Satow w/o Mark Heffernan & Sam Powell lost to Dick Cowling & George Sleightholme 0/6 1/6 Mark Gillespie lost to Ivan Barker 5/6 2/6 David Offen & Stuart Kerr bt Sophie Dannreuther & Karen Prottey 6/2 2/6 6/5 Dave Davies lost to Araminta Oldham 2/6 3/6 Semi-finals RTC lost to Radley 0-5 Karen Prottey & Ben Simonds-Gooding lost to Edward Alder & Henry Henman 2/6 1/6 Jess Garside lost to Edward Crowston 0/6 0/6 Peter Dann lost to Magnus Garson 5/6 2/6 Araminta Oldham lost to Martin McNair 4/6 3/6 Dick Cowling & George Sleightholme lost to Giles Fitzpatrick & Tony Munsey 3/6 3/6 Wellington lost to Seacourt 2-3 Willem Sweet & James Rossiter bt Matt Boulton & Neil McCue 6/5 6/3 Sue Haswell lost to James Medlow 5/6 1/6 Graeme Marks lost to Nigel Ireson 3/6 2/6 Clive Watson bt Mark Vinall 6/2 6/0 Simon Roundell & Francis Moore lost to Max Jones & Max Truman 2/6 2/6 Final Hyde, 8th March Seacourt beat Radley 3-2

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By Claire Stacey, Chairman

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s always, our thanks must go to our two professionals, Kevin King and Ben Coleman, who work tirelessly on our behalf arranging and running tournaments, interclub matches, games, lessons and taster sessions, and all the other endless duties that they willingly take on for the Club.

Everything was ticking over nicely, with a goodly number of Trial members taking an interest in the game and court usage improving month by month - then along came Covid-19 and we found ourselves in lockdown along with everyone else. The worst part is the uncertainty and not knowing when things will to return to James Dron, with the bagpipes representing normal - and there are only so many times that Scotland, and Tom Lewis wearing a red shirt, but you can watch Chris Ronaldson on YouTube no leek, for Wales. without getting frustrated!

It’s turning into a rather strange season in terms of fixtures, with everything now cancelled or Cambridge postponed for the foreseeable future. Until

By Ben Geytenbeek 23rd March we had managed to play a number of inter-club matches. We also had some very t was a year of change and innovation at good Club tournaments, which were hard Cambridge, as a new leadership team of Vix fought and entertaining, but four of our major Harvey and Charles D’Oyly took the reins of tournaments have been cancelled or are the committee. Both courts saw face-lifts over unlikely to go ahead, and we are not sure about the summer, with a team of volunteers making being able to run our summer programme. the Green Court greener and turning the Blue Court from red to black. A special mention to But there have been some plus sides. We Simon Stokes who spent several days fixing started the season with a bang – albeit a up our old penthouses and removing centurysocial one – with a very successful Andalucian old decaying hessian from the Blue Court. We Supper, of sherry tasting matched with food. also saw the purchase of some dehumidifiers Ben Coleman and Tom Lewis were playing in to deal with the problem of sweat on our Blue the National League, Division 5, and were doing Court. quite nicely until the lockdown. And just two weekends before the lockdown, we held a Six The club also saw an uptick in activity with Nations Tournament to coincide with the rugby. three gap year assistant professionals (GYAP) The outcome of the rugby is still uncertain, but and an administrator joining the team, making in Tennis terms our final was between Scotland the club a lively and sociable place. Zara and Wales, with Scotland taking the trophy!

Tweed was instrumental to the Ladies Morning

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The senior members have had a successful year as well. GYAP Andrew Barker lead Cambridge to a decisive victory in the second East Anglia Pennant, while fixtures secretary Christie Marrian lead a successful team to the Not the Varsity Match victory. Meanwhile, Ed Kay added to his already impressive palmarès with an Amateur Doubles victory and was the It was a busy year for the student players runner-up in the Amateur Singles. Our Brodie in Cambridge. There were several new or cup team was less successful, losing out to reinvigorated tournaments. Ashwin Ahuja and Radley, while our Pol Roger Team lost to MCC. Ulla Petti took victories in the early season University Student Cup. Ivo Macdonald took Of course, there was a lot of other Tennis (and a clear victory in the Bostock Cup, while eating) through the rest of the season, with Sophia Lewis backed up her victory in the numerous club visits, regular league nights, CURTC Ladies Championship by taking out category tournaments, juniors sessions and the Lawrence Cup. Meanwhile Jacqueline Siu the ongoing churn of social matches, training won LRTA doubles events at the Newmarket sessions and lessons. Many thanks to our Hi-Lo and British Ladies Handicap. Jack Drew sponsors, NW Brown Wealth Management, teamed up with Stephen Doel to win the Alumni Tayabali & White, Pol Roger, Hannay-Robertson focussed Giraffe Club Cup, while Ulla Petti and Financial Planning, Nicholson Gin and all of the members who have generously donated Kate Kirk won the second division. to the Giraffe Club. Huge thanks further to all The Varsity matches were an uphill battle for of the committee and those members who the Cambridge players this year. Highlights for donate their time and effort around the club, Cambridge included a three-hour epic victory and especially our hard-working pros, Kees for Men’s captain Ivo Macdonald, coming off a and Peter. three-hour epic loss in the doubles. But best of all, the Ladies doubles pair of India Blaksley and Sophia Lewis fought to a massive upset Canford win over the Oxford pair of Georgie Willis and

By David Dickson, Chairman Lottie Hoskin. Oxford were too strong in the remaining matches in both the first and the seconds matches, but we hope to do well next year with our rapidly improving talent. s I write this report Real Tennis is still a victim of the COVID-19 pandemic The popular Inter-Universities Tournament and Canford, like every other court, is moved from November to March to provide empty of play. There has been some activity. a longer season of student tennis across the Professional Steve Ronaldson and his Assistant country. Despite large teams from Middlesex James Ryan have taken the opportunity to and Exeter and as strong showing from UCL, repaint the bandeau a corporate “Canford” blue. it was a strong year of the hosts. Cambridge won the Inter-University Cup, while Thomas Until lockdown took over the court was as busy Whitworth took the Division 1 Handicap Cup. as ever. The Canford Graded competition – in its In the evening, the court was transformed to a second year of running – was a great success magnificent dinner and ceilidh venue. We also with 60 players across four groups involved. ran a full online stream for the whole event for Eventual winners were Grade A – Oliver Hunter, the first time.

Grade B – Dave Mason, Grade C – Simon Davey and Grade D – Paddy Mallinson. doubles sessions, while Jim Ludekens and Andrew Barker ran hitting sessions with the senior members, learned how to sew balls and string racquets. Both have also been making rapid improvements with their game with trips to Prested and Seacourt aiding their development.

A

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Team H (Malcolm Baker, Bob McCarthy and Ian Glen) were narrow victors in the Night Pennant with both finalists tied on matches and games won. The match was decided by a “grille-off" with Bob eventually hitting the winner. The Summer Cup was won for the second year running by Iain Fullerton and Mark Garratt.

Iain Fullerton also won the handicap singles title and Jeremy Channon and Mark Thistlethwaite took the doubles.

Encouragingly there are now a steady group of young players coming to junior Squash and Real Tennis mornings each week. We run three sessions on a Saturday with up to 12 children involved.

Albert Blackburn and Will Fountain are first year pupils at Canford who have developed their games at the Hyde and Petworth respectively.

They narrowly lost 4/6 in the U14s National Schools Doubles Championship and are ones to watch over the coming years. We had a further five pairs at Radley and Queen’s in the U16s and U18s events. We have a number of keen players involved across all year groups and it will be exciting to see their development going forward.

Steve and James have been very busy on the ball front having between them made over 600 balls for the French Open, IRTPA and World Championships over the last 12 months. (As Chairman and with emergence from lockdown in mind I was considering asking Steve to make me my own set of white balls so that when play resumes I would only have to play with my balls and not my opponent’s - if you catch my meaning!)

Like everyone in the game – we at Canford are desperately looking forward to getting back on court as soon as we possibly can.

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Falkland Palace

By Ewan Lee

A

nyone for Lawn Tennis?

Returning to Falkland Palace after the relaxation of lockdown was both liberating and strange. The gardens and grounds, usually so beautifully kept and popular with the tourists, lay silent. Nature was beginning to reclaim its territory in every corner; the bird song amplified by the stillness. The door to the Tennis court was open, as usual, to welcome the annual visit of the swallows, those denizens of the viewing gallery eaves whose passage had been unimpeded by the events of the past few months. Before the first ball was hit there was speculation that we would be changing codes (see photo), but a little elbow grease put a stop to all of that! When that first ball was eventually struck onto the penthouse, its dull thud reminded one in a quiet moment of the rituals which give us pleasure, in the hope that this will be experienced very soon in clubs in the wider Tennis community.

Falkland Palace court

Hardwick

By Tim Tomalin

S

eldom do the affairs of the outside world intrude upon our Tennis at Hardwick.

Before the dreaded virus changed our lives so dramatically we were having a busy year. In the autumn we introduced our new level singles competitions. Andy Keeley won the top group, beating Simon Constantine in the final to become the first recipient of the Prince’s Racket Trophy. The tournaments for the over forties and over fifty handicaps were won

by Mike Box and David Enticknap respectively.

All this activity stimulated unprecedented enthusiasm early in the season so that by Christmas our traditional seasonal tournaments were on schedule. Our annual spring meeting and tournaments have of course had to be abandoned but, ever optimistic, we hope we will be able to meet and complete the year’s business in the summer.

Simon Constantine & Andy Keeley

Under the leadership of Peter Mawson, our Hatfield House club Captain, our teams put up creditable

By Steve Brewerton performances in social matches, the Thames Valley League and the Brodie Cup. Peter has organised practice evenings (where we spend more time on court than in the pub!), and dedicated a great deal of time and effort to atfield House Tennis Club was as busy team selection which has paid off handsomely. as ever throughout the 2019 season.

We are not quite sweeping the board yet but We continued to make improvements we have high hopes of bringing home the to our club with minimal interruption to our Bickley Bowl and the Rose Vase before long! busy timetable of competitions, club matches, coaching and friendly games.

The court is looking good though a large old building is for ever presenting new challenges. We have now concluded the refurbishment After a pane of glass fell from a window high in work which was required to keep our court the main wall it was discovered that the all the looking its best and playing as well as we window frames need attention and some will expect. During May of last year, we repaired have to be replaced. We hope soon to begin and painted key sections of the walls which, work restoring the old professional’s rooms thankfully, has not affected how the court plays. with the intention of improving our changing The floor and wall markings were repainted facilities and tidying up our storage and utility and for the more observant amongst you, space. we now have exclusively white lines for the

H

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service box at the hazard end. The changing rooms, corridors and downstairs areas were also decorated which completed the planned works. I would like to thank John Savage who not only coordinated these efforts but generously completed a significant portion of this work in his limited free time.

Before I attempt to summarise some of the playing highlights that occurred last year, I would like to mention that our impressive website has complete information on all competitive results, club activity and upcoming events. I would like to thank James Law for continuing to maintain our website and for taking the time to take and upload the vast majority of the photos and content.

Dedanists, have committed to sponsoring this tournament, which should secure its future at HHTC. The tournament is played over three full days concluding with Sue Haswell and Simon Mansfield beating Alex Brodie and Julian Stafford in the final.

Unfortunately, the Category D tournament in March 2020 had to be abandoned after the first day due to the court closing on the Saturday.

Away from Tennis, we had two summer events, the Annual Summer Garden Party and the HHTC Golf Day.

In September, Martin and Gemma Richard kindly hosted the Garden party, in glorious sunshine, attended by 40 members. This was an excellent event and I am pleased to say we As part of their many duties, our professionals, all behaved well enough to be invited back Jon and James organise all of our competitions again this year. Many thanks to Martin and and club matches throughout the year. This Gemma. includes; the Goldblatt Cup, Summer Leagues, Swiss Singles, the Hurricane to name but a The annual HHTC golf day took place in few. This is no mean feat and their continued July at Mid Herts Golf Club with both of our patience and persistence is greatly appreciated. professionals playing alongside the members.

Please remember to keep an eye out for emails The spoils this year went to John Balfour-Lynn. relating to your matches and reply as promptly Hopefully he will be able to defend his title this as possible. coming summer.

As always, HHTC players travelled the country last season playing in club matches, National Leagues and other competitions. We also hosted a full schedule of home matches which are made special by the team of Match Managers. Due to our national reputation for exceptional hospitality, we are all very grateful for the efforts made by the Match Managers who provide superb lunches and co-ordinate the fixtures.

Holyport

By Mark Piper

W

e are delighted that this entertaining, absorbing and challenging year has seen the Club’s membership reach 250 for the first time, over 100 of whom have I am pleased to report that we were able to joined since our relaunch in 2014. complete the Billy Ross Skinner invitational mixed doubles tournament in February 2020. We are grateful to the long-standing stalwarts This was only made possible with the input for their loyalty and support, and the new from Sarah Sullivan, Liz Fisher and Jackie recruits for their enthusiasm. Both groups Sherman. I am very grateful for the time have been rewarded in their endeavours by they dedicated to making this tournament a providing winners in the year’s twenty or so success. I am delighted to let you know that tournaments. two Tennis foundations, the Jesters and the 62

A popular addition for new and improving players has been the introduction of the Bandit Cup, a competition that produced thrilling play from the participants and enthralled the crowded dedans.

Mixed fortunes followed us in interclub competitions: apart from varying degrees of success (and otherwise!) in our National League divisions we were knocked out of the Brodie Cup, after a comprehensive first round victory, at the Round of 16 stage, and lost an epic semi-final in the Field Trophy, where we were beaten by the doughty and magnanimous team from Jesmond Dene.

We look forward to emerging from our enforced hibernation and to being greeted by the enthusiastic encouragement of Adam Phillips and the staunch stewardship of our resolute and everpresent Club Director, John Evans.

The beautiful historic building of Holyport Real Tennis Court. The court was built in 1889 by Sam Heilbut

year so we can expand the number of children able to come in.

Hyde

By Adrian Paterson

U

ntil our enforced closure at the beginning of March due to the coronavirus, the Hyde was enjoying another positive year with an active and engaged membership.

Much of the credit for this goes to our excellent professionals Jez Brodie and Stephen Grier who work tirelessly in honing the skills of the members, maintaining high court usage and promoting Real Tennis in the community with a particular emphasis on attracting younger players. We currently have one after school club per week for local children and the plan is to offer a second weekly slot in the coming

A big change for the club this year was that we successfully transitioned into a charity and I am particularly grateful for all the advice and help we got from both Jesmond and Petworth in enabling us to make this happen. Becoming a charity was a prerequisite to us being able to open negotiations with our current landlords (the Bridport and West Dorset Sports Trust) with a view to buying the freehold of the building.

We are currently undergoing a fundraising into our newly formed charity and are very thankful for the generous support of both the T&RA and the Dedanists’ Foundation in helping us achieve our goal. If there is anyone else out there who would like to make a donation please don’t hesitate to get in touch!

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CLUB REPORTS Jesmond Dene

By Richard MacAlister

I On the playing front, we hosted the Brodie Cup, the Chetwood Trophy and the Category B 10-19 Handicap weekend. The Brodie Cup final was a scintillating affair with Seacourt narrowly defeating Radley 3-2. Both squads played fantastic Tennis and it was wonderful to see both teams use of both youth and experience.

It was a real pleasure to witness the grit and determination of the juniors and all the matches were finely balanced.

The Chetwood Trophy final was contested between the lowest handicap player Rory Musgrave (32) – Queen’s and the highest handicap player Mark Allen (70) – Wellington.

Despite a late flourish from Mark Allen, Rory Musgrave prevailed 8/6 having played flawless handicap Tennis throughout. The Category B 10-19 weekend served up its usual feast of high quality Tennis with the appearance of one or two players fresh out of the junior ranks. In the final it was one of those, Benedict Yorston, who caused something of an upset beating his more experienced Radley compatriot Nino Merola 6/3 6/1 and securing the title. His consistency and speed around the court was a pleasure to watch and quite chastening for those of us with a few more miles on the clock!

We now patiently await the great unlocking and assuming this happens sooner rather than later, please do come and visit us if you are ever passing.

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t has been another year of change at Jesmond Dene. Firstly, all of our members were sad to see our professional, Scott Blaber, move to Hampton Court. Scott, Kerry and their two lovely daughters have contributed massively to Jesmond. It is a great opportunity for them and we wish them well. We have been very fortunate to have been able to entice an extremely experienced and enthusiastic professional, Mark Eadle, back into the game as replacement.

Secondly, our long-standing Chairman and Secretary, Alan Douglas and Simon Johnston, have stepped down after many years’ service and seeing the Club through a period of significant change. Again, we thank them massively and hope to see them on court soon.

We have had many visitors to Jesmond and, alongside the regular fixtures, we were very pleased to welcome two Australian teams in the Summer, enjoying great matches against both the Wanderers and the Jesters.

2019 was the 125th anniversary of the court and, in September, we held an enlarged Great North Doubles handicap competition, which attracted many old and new visitors to the North East. It was a very enjoyable weekend and included a gin and beer tasting session on the Friday night, alongside the usual annual dinner on Saturday, which was very well supported.

We owe huge thanks to Darren Spurling and his team for organising such a fantastic event.

On the court, we had a new Club Championship Singles winner in Ollie Martyn-Hempell, a student at Durham University, who beat our former professional, Paul Hetherington. Our students also made a considerable contribution to us reaching the final of the Field Trophy, after excellent wins at home against Prested Hall and away versus Holyport. Unfortunately, the final against a very strong Leamington team proved a match too far.

We are all looking forward to getting back on court and to continuing the development of our beautiful court and Club.

Leamington

IBM Real Tennis and Rackets Club

By Neale Turner Chairman, Barrie Cunningham

2

019 saw us reach a new milestone; our 40th anniversary which we celebrated in September with a fun tournament at Seacourt Tennis Club followed by lunch at which we were delighted to welcome Peter and Viv Dawes as our special guests. Peter was the professional at Seacourt at the time the IBM Real Tennis Club was founded by Glyn Edmunds and after lunch Peter entertained us richly with a mix of reminiscences and anecdotes about the "old days".

Our club trophy the Glyn Edmunds Block was competed for by our enthusiastic band of current and former employees of IBM together with our valued friends in a round robin format at eight courts around the country; Holyport, Radley, RTC, Queen's, Hardwick, Canford, Petworth and Seacourt. The emphasis is always on enjoying each other's company while playing a game that we love but the Tennis is no less hard fought for that. Fortunes on the court ebb and flow with the handicaps generally ensuring close matches and a variety of winners and this year your correspondent managed to emerge as the winner of the Block, due in all probability as much to his judicious choice of partners as anything else.

We were greatly saddened in November when Evelyn Gray passed away suddenly and unexpectedly in her sleep. Evelyn was a longstanding and popular member of our small and close-knit group who constantly cheered us with her positivity and happy disposition. She served as our Secretary from the year 2000.

Whilst we are comforted that Evelyn's passing was peaceful we continue to miss very much her sunny companionship.

I should like to express my thanks to the professionals, their assistants and the club officers and members who welcome us to their courts. While Covid-19 has delayed the start of our activities in 2020 we look forward to seeing you all again soon.

D

iscreetly tucked away in the heart of Royal Leamington Spa is a members’ Tennis Club with a history reaching back more than 170 years. Established in 1846, Leamington Tennis Court Club is the oldest purpose built Tennis club in the world.

Ben Taylor-Matthews, Leamington Professional The T&RA wishes to thank LTCC and its members for the generous support to the Young Professionals’ Fund which has helped many aspiring youngsters since 2008.

Farewell to Charles Wade, read more on page 13.

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CLUB REPORTS Manchester

By Jamie Bebb

T

he season began with the traditional pipe-opener, the Smithie Doubles, won convincingly by Jamie White & Brendan Hegarty who beat David Lowe & Dave Fisher 6/2 in the final with Rupert Heap winning the golf.

Tinker Tailor (Sebastian Young, Kerry Knight, David Summersgill & Mel Harding) beat Bear Necessities (Chris Barnes, Jonathan Heaton, John Clarkson & Henry Russell) 4/1 in the final of the Pennant. final and Graham Heap beat John Mortimer, the holder, in the final of the rackets.

The end of October saw the Gold Racquet, the Club’s signature Rackets tournament. Given There were a number of new entries to the that he was training for his World Championship Kershaw Cup – the National Over-60 Singles challenge, it was generous of Alex Duncliffe- tournament – this year but one notable Vines to enter and this year he reversed last absentee. The holder, John Prenn, was unable year’s result, beating Ben Cawston in straight to defend his title due to injury but, in his sets in the final. They teamed up together in absence, William Maltby, Geoffrey Russell and the doubles but were just unable to get the Martin Richards were making their debuts. better of the number 4 seeds, Nick James & William, on handicap, was the strong ante Mike Bailey, who prevailed 15/10 15/3 9/15 post favourite but was taken to the limit by the 9/15 15/11 in a terrific final. unorthodox forcing game of Martin, prevailing 6/5 6/5 in a terrific final – as fine an example Our Pol Roger team was emasculated by the on the Tennis court of the boxer v the slugger loss of Shenkmans pere et fils to another club as you’re ever likely to see. The B singles was and conceded their match to RTC. The Brodie won by Ronald Paterson who deprived Tony team again failed to make it through the first Harrison of a three-pete and the handicap round. doubles for the Thomas Trophy was won by the tried and tested combination of Johns – The annual Golf competition at Stockport GC Mortimer & Oliviero - who beat Geoffrey Russell was won convincingly by Stella Heap. & Martin Richards in a very competitive final.

In the absence abroad of its usual organiser, the Bentley Doubles went really smoothly and was won by Brendan Hegarty & Kerry Knight who came back from a substantial deficit to beat John Mortimer and John Oliviero 8/7.

Theo Taylor & Jack Mitchell won the Lyons Cup for Rackets at the first time of asking.

The Club handicap singles was won by Ross MacLeod who beat Rupert Heap 8/3 in the

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The Club has in course - Covid-19 permitting – a programme of works, both external and internal, to be accomplished by the time it reaches its 150th year in 2026. The external works should be finished within the next year with the remainder being done a couple of years down the road. Any financial contributions from friends and members both at home and abroad would be very welcome.

MCC

By Roger Pilgrim

Our flagship Tennis Weekend was held in February and was won by:

Mason/Sharp - Tony Friend & Robert Kilgour beat Paul Cattermull & Rufus Parkes 7/6 Osborn/Parker - Will Greig & Chris Doyle beat wing to the Covid-19 crisis, tournaments Guy Egerton-Smith & Iain Harvey 7/3 in the latter part of the 2019/20 season were postponed and, at the time of We were pleased to welcome as our speaker writing, the MCC Gold and Silver Racquets at the Tennis Dinner, John Shneerson, who is and All-comers tournament as well as the R.G. writing a history of sports at the MCC other Paterson Bowl have not taken place. than cricket.

O

The D.W. Cull Trophy doubles tournament, MCC Pol Roger Trophy and Brodie Cup teams pairing highest and lowest handicaps, was were both eliminated at early stages in the played in October. Mark Ryan & Carl Snitcher tournaments. defeated Tony Friend & Jonathan Ellis-Miller 6/4 in the final.

Skills nights are great social events which provide another opportunity for players of all standards to meet and get to know each other.

For the first time, we used a Tennis-ball firing machine for one of the skills. 36 Members took part over two evenings and the two winning teams were: Steven Bishop, Nicholas Esses & Paul Buchanan-Barrow (despite BuchananBarrow pulling up lame well before the end) and Richard Brown, Laurence Olins & Peter Brunner with a special mention to John Newton, Ben Martin & Gareth Zundel (tied on points).

Moreton Morrell

By John Miller

I

n 2019 Nick Jury announced his retirement as our assistant professional. Nick did long stints at Leamington under Kevin Sheldon and here at Moreton Morrell under Tom Granville. In his younger days he attained a handicap of 15 and became a renowned maker of quality Tennis balls. After he sustained terrible injuries in a road accident in 2006 his chances of any sort of recovery looked slim but he made it back to work after a few years and The winners of the club’s internal tournaments in time, was even able to play to a handicap of completed at the end of 2019 and in early 2020 34 – a remarkable achievement. Playing now as an amateur clearly suits him as his handicap were: has recently fallen a further 5 points to 29!

D.P. Henry Cup – Tom Carew Hunt beat Stephen This year also saw the retirement of the club’s Bough 6/3 6/5 W.H. Ollis Cup – Iain Harvey beat James Treasurer Mike Harwood. For some 17 years he produced accounts and reports on how McDermott 6/5 6/3 R. Aird Cup – Simon Martin & Paul Cattermull the club was faring through some quite lean years. We are greatly indebted to him for his beat Tony Friend & Stephen Bough 6/4 6/3 H.D. Johns Cup – Gareth Zundel & Simon Wood excellent work. beat Ben Martin & Rory Scott 6/2 6/0 The relaying of our court floor has been put on In January, the MCC Generation Competition hold for obvious reasons. Work will go ahead for pairs comprising parent and offspring was when conditions allow and we are hopeful of a fine new playing surface to rival the old. It will won by Giles and Hugh Pemberton.

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be an expensive job for which we are having to raise funds. Any donations will be gratefully received and valued.

In the final of the Amicus Cup, Tom Bomford gave 48 points to young Gus West. It was a ‘damned close run thing’ but Tom squeaked home after a score of 5-all, 40-all in the 3rd set. It was a great effort from Gus in losing so narrowly in the final but he went one better when he partnered Harry Walsh to victory in the Hobson Cup.

MURTC

By Chris Bray

R

eal Tennis continues to thrive at MURTC with high court usage and increases in membership in all categories. Most pleasingly, student numbers amongst freshers have seen a significant rise which augers well for the next three years at least. Solid team and individual performances against Cambridge University and at the inter-Universities tournament have further enhanced their passion which is generously supported by both MDX University and MURTC club members.

Alex Gordon won the Under 21 Trophy but keen newcomer Chris Marguerie beat him in the final The rise in bookings from students along with of the Parsons Cup. Practice makes perfect. increased bookings from private members has reached the point where in peak season it is Alan Moug had lots of success in doubles difficult to book a court at favourable times. tournaments. He lifted the Ponsonby Cup with Although frustrating in some quarters, it is a Mark Maclure and earlier won the Ogilby Cup clear sign that the Club is moving in the right with Peter Lewis who put bat to ball with great direction. All club tournaments have been well effect. attended with Monday Club nights hosted by Chris Bray and Will Burns often oversubscribed.

In the first round of the Pol Roger, Moreton Our Brodie Cup team had a good run beating Morrell beat reigning champions MCC but Newmarket away before succumbing to a were unable to progress further. strong RTC team on home turf. Our thanks to Stuart Kerr in his first year as Captain.

In the absence of Tom Bomford, Vaughan Hamilton was largely untroubled in winning Mark Heffernan’s division 9 National League the Owen-George club championship. With team consisting of Mark Gillespie and Johnny youth and speed in abundance he beat Philip Bruce performed exceptionally well reaching Shaw-Hamilton in the final. the final only to be denied the chance of a win due to the Covid-19 outbreak. Special mention John Murphy surprised nobody in powering to must go to Mark Gillespie as the divisions best victory in the Garland Cup but Tony Branfield performing player. Our division 7 team were amazed us and himself by snatching the less spectacular, due in large part to several Moreton Morrell Shield from the clutches of injuries to three key players.

David Harris.

In January, the Club hosted the British Open In the National Inter-Club Tournament, the under 21 & Under 24 Championships, won doubles trophy went to Nick Gordon and by Freddie Bristow and Robert Shenkman Tim Roberts of Radley whereas home player respectively. They formidably teamed up to win Jeremy Hawkins made the most of sparkling the Under 24 doubles in convincing style. The form and deservedly claimed the singles cup. overall entry for both events was disappointing 68

Real Tennis continues to thrive at MURTC.

but with a move to just before Christmas this year rather than a 2nd Jan 2021 start, we are hopeful of a bigger entry.

Nineteen schools and twenty one pairs fought over three days for the Cattermull Cup (Schools Alumni tournament) in mid-January which was won by Stonyhurst represented by Paul Brennan and Matthew Page victorious over Wimbledon High School (Alex Brodie and Nicola Doble) in a pulsating final 10/8.

My thanks to the MURTC Board, MDX University, and our Management Committee for their valuable support and advice.

Club Tournament Results: Panke Trophy: Mark Rayner Thursday Pennant: Faheys Children Village Cup: David Offen & Dave Davies Chairmans Cup: Howard Sharman & Hamish Johnston-Stewart

Newmarket

By Hugo Johnsen

A

s I write this report at the end of April, we do not know when we might be allowed to start playing Real Tennis again. In the interim days between partial and full lockdown, we enjoyed a few days when we played with gloved hands and tipped each other’s racquets at the end of the match, but even that was curtailed on March 23rd. Thanks to the government we were able to furlough our professional, Andrew Knibbs. He has told me that he has not spent so much time with his kids since they were born but is now quite keen to get back on court too.

In November we have had a fantastic review of our roof done by a ‘man with a drone’ which enabled us to explore every single tile and fortunately there is only a little maintenance to be completed when we are able to reopen.

Another benefit was that the ‘man-with-adrone’ wants to try out Real Tennis – this was a marketing ploy we had not previously considered!

We wish everyone well and look forward to seeing you all on court very soon.

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Oratory

By Simon Wetton

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t has been a huge year for the Oratory with significant changes and extensive plans for the future finally crystallised. The Oratory has been somewhat quiet in recent times since the heydays of the noughties when it was once one of the privileged clubs to host a World Championship event. In fact, one of only two UK clubs to host the event along with The Queen’s Club in the modern era.

This January the Oratory hosted a World Title eliminator match between Camden Riviere, and Old Oratorian, Nick Howell. The Club welcomed a sell-out audience of 157 to watch a fantastic match but unfortunately for Nick, Camden thundered through to a victory on the first day. Undampened, day two hosted some exhibition doubles with Rob, Nick, Peter Wright and Camden to satisfy the audience’s lust for Tennis and no one was disappointed.

A new not-for-profit club company has been formed and Oratory Real Tennis Club has agreed a long-term hire agreement with the School, who have been fantastically encouraging and supportive of a thriving Real Tennis community. The relaunch of the club was given an immediate boost with the help of Team Radley, as Chris Ronaldson, Maggie, Nino & Levi brought their enthusiasm, energy and management skills to help prepare a rival club in advance of getting its own professional, for the greater good! We are immensely grateful to them for taking us so far, before the virus cruelly paused everything.

As if the Eliminator and the Radley team were not enough for a relaunch, the club and the school have now secured Rob and Claire Fahey from September as the Club and School’s respective rackets professionals.

Quite unimaginable a year ago!

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Oxford

By Neil Mortensen

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ell, demitting Chair Derek Williams certainly went out on a high. One of the clubs most successful years ever has been followed by a few disappointments, but that as they say is sport.

In January we made a presentation to Derek to thank him for six years as Chair and for his huge contribution to Real Tennis in Oxford. He has been outstanding and has committed an enormous amount of his own time and energy and the resources of his printing company Mayfield to the club and the sport more widely.

As well as an engraved claret decanter we gave him a cartoon by Mikko demonstrating his characteristic forcing shot which will adorn our Board Room.

In the Varsity seconds match, played in Oxford this year, the Oxford men’s team the Unicorns beat the Giraffes 6-0 and the Oxford ladies won 4-2. The following weekend at Lords for the Varsity match Oxford men captained by Rory Giddins won 5-1 and the women’s team captained by Eve Shenkman also won 5-1. Our thanks again to Brian Sharp and the team at Lords and to match sponsors Pol Roger for their contribution to a very enjoyable event.

In the individual student competitions, the Silver Racket went to Freddie Freeman beating James Bates, and in the Silver Goblet for women Nina Ludekens beat Eve Shenkman. The event was sponsored by Aldens and we thank them for their generous support for student Tennis.

The Wroth Cup our open doubles nonhandicap final was won by father and son Alan and Richard Oliver. In the Knight Cup for open singles non-handicap players Geoff Baker was victorious. The Grant Bates trophy sponsored

by Nuffield Hospitals was won by Ed Kandel and Nanami Yamaguchi. They beat Mary Strevens and Laura Neill in the all student final.

Our thanks for all the coaching, organisation, marking and enthusiasm of our Pros Andrew Davis and Craig Greenhalgh who make the club such an enjoyable place to come and play. The Committee would also like to acknowledge our other sponsors Bower and Bailey, Strutt and Parker, Interview Advantage, A1 plumbing technology and Savage Selection.

Petworth

By Andrew Falk

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ll was going well at Petworth on court, with our new facilities in full swing, until the season was so rudely interrupted in March. As elsewhere no doubt, many any of the club tournaments remain unfinished.

Happily, our Assistant Professional, Louis Gordon, having made a good recovery from his wrist injury got back into coaching and So, no Brodie Cup this last year, and no 0-9s tournament action. We congratulate our Senior Annual Dinner. But we were awarded the Professional, Tom Durack, on becoming a Thames Valley League after the competition father. was closed early, and the Corona virus looks as though it will put a stop to many other In the tournaments that were completed, the competitions in the coming months. Just before Bevan-Thomas Trophy (Two Generations) was lock down I played in the very last game on the won by David Bevan-Thomas, the donor of the Oxford Court before everything was stopped. Trophy, partnered by his grandson, Harry, who It seems a world away, but we hope to be back beat Tom and Will Fountain in the final. playing again ere long In the final of the Ellis Rich Trophy (scratch doubles) Stephen Goss and James Hamblin beat Adam Dolman and Harvey Rawlings. In the final of the Robinson Trophy (the higher handicap qualifier for the Ellis Rich Trophy) Nick Chambers and George Andrews beat Hereward Taylor and Charlie Maunder. Of the 3 National League Teams (Divs 5, 8 and 9), the teams captained by Charlie Maunder (Div 8) and Adrian Warburton (Div 9) were in contention for places in their respective play-offs.

The Pol Roger team retained their place in the Pol Roger competition when Manchester conceded a walkover in the play-off.

We formally record that the Club, PHTC Ltd, acquired charitable status in November.

Outgoing President Derek Williams is presented with his Mikko portrait by Neil Mortensen

We also record that on 30 June this year after 10 years for both in post, Philip Robinson is standing down as Chairman, with Robert Dolman taking over as Chairman, and Andrew Falk is standing down as Hon Sec, with Jon Petersen taking over as Hon Sec. 71

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enjoyed the 2020 event with Benedict Yorston (Oxford) defeating Magnus Garson (Radley) in an exciting, handicap- and fatigue- defying final. The Prested Cup winners also received Extratec Racquets.

Bevan-Thomas Trophy (Two Generations) was won by David Bevan-Thomas, the donor of the Trophy, partnered by his grandson, Harry, who beat Tom and Will Fountain in the final.

Prested

By Mike Carter

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rom high to low in a couple of weeks. As I write this we are still semi locked-down, HMG are trying to release us, even though they cannot begin to explain or justify it on health grounds, and many people think it’s too soon and would be willing to stay in longer.

Other notable events include: Prested’s Steve Taylor, with his ever-useful partner Peter Wright retained their National Over 40s doubles title, while Steve partnered Toby Bawden to victory in the club doubles and Trevor & Jake Mead won the familial “Blake’s Old Racket”. Most club tournaments of course will remain unresolved and our June Pros Invitation tournament will have to wait a year. In this truncated season The Team Fahey Trophies cabinet has been less added-to than usual with Rob “only” winning the “Champions Trophy” and IRTPA Singles, while Claire was restricted to just the French Open (but took up Padel to representing GB, who came third in “The Europeans”.

For four years now we’ve had the privilege and The season started with the excitement of honour of having the great Team Fahey World Team Fahey being awarded the right to host Champions duo as our club pros.

Rob’s title defence, his 12th, here in April.

Members formed a championship committee, Nothing is for ever though, and they must move beavered away planning events, selling tickets, on to The Oratory with schooling, and Rob’s court improvements were carried out, with likely imminent retirement firmly in mind. We new nets all round, new carpets ordered along wish them both, and the children, good health with chairs and gallery stools. and much happiness in their new adventure, thank them hugely for their time here, and look The season, such as it was could almost, sadly, forward to eventually hosting Rob’s last big be dismissed now as a forgettable irrelevance, challenge. but before lockdown we’d hosted a very large Ladies RTA meeting, to be repeated this Efforts, severely curtailed by the lockdown, November (2020) if we are open. At the start to transfer my lease (of eight courts) into the of the season James Rossiter of Queen’s won newly formed Prested Tennis Club, continue, the postponed 2019 Prested Cup (for amateurs but more complexities keep rearing ugly heads under 20); and just before lockdown we to slow the process down. We’ll get there!

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The Queen’s Club

By Alan Giddins

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ver the past year we have seen record numbers of people playing Real Tennis at Queen’s, and the club played over 40 matches against other clubs and associations.

We have also seen an increasing number of juniors taking up the game. None of this would have been possible without the dedication, encouragement and good humour of our professional team of Ben Ronaldson, Bryn Sayers and Neil Mackenzie, together with the invaluable support we receive from Ben Bomford. We have also benefited from having India Deakin and Tom Panto supporting both Rackets and Real Tennis at various stages during the season.

Sadly the Covid-19 outbreak prevented the Club finishing the various club knock out tournaments, which we will hopefully be able to complete at the start of next season. We were, however, able to enjoy two highly successful handicap weekends, both of which saw in excess of 125 entrants across four tournaments.

The A singles was won by Charlie Horrell (Autumn) and Pascal Grierson (Spring) and the B Singles by Edward Hopkinson-Woolley and Bill Higson. The A doubles was won by Rory Sutton & Louis Winstanley and Will Boys-Stones & Will Carbutt-Todd (Autumn and Spring respectively), and the B Doubles by James & Henry Ash and Will Robertson & Alex Jeffreys.

For the first time in several years, we had two teams representing Queen’s at the Boomerang Cup, hosted at the Royal Melbourne Real Tennis Club, made up from Simon Mansfield, Ronald Paterson, Charlie and Charlotta Horrell, Tony Penny, Hattie Hamilton and Alan and Joanna Giddins. In the Pol Roger, we reached the final versus RTC, losing 2-3, having defeated Moreton Morrell in the semi-final. A huge thank you to Jonny Whittaker for taking over the captaincy of the Queen’s team. We

Max receiving his U12s British Junior Champion trophy from David Watson, also entered teams in three divisions of the National League.

We were extremely pleased to host both the British Open Singles and Doubles and the British Amateur Singles and Doubles.

Queen’s were well represented in the amateur championships, with Jamie Douglas winning the Amateur Singles for the fifth time, and Jamie Giddins winning the Amateur Doubles for the second time. Jamie Giddins also won the US Amateur Singles. Lea Van der Zwalman has moved up to No 2 in the ladies world rankings, having reached the final of the Ladies British Open.

Other notable tournament successes included Max Warner (British U12 singles), Bertie Vallat (British U14 Singles) and Jamie & Rory Giddins (Henry Leaf). Freddie Bristowe also joined Queen’s this year and won the British U21 singles.

We were pleased to be able to support the Dedanists in arranging a number of training sessions for some of the country’s top juniors, and to host several external tournaments, including the Army Championships, Henry Leaf, Charles Acheson-Gray Cup and British Junior Open.

Finally, I would like to give huge thanks to Simon Mansfield, who stepped down after six years as Chairman of the Real Tennis Committee at Queen’s.

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Radley

By Mick Dean

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long with the common disappointment of the virus-truncation to the season, 2019-20 was also a season of ‘almosts’ for RCTC. Captain Maggie-Henderson-Tew’s expert marshalling of the Brodie Cup team made up of juniors and seniors narrowly failed to recapture the title won in 2018 and 2017 – despite singles wins from Max Wetton and Martin McNair.

Hugo Axel-Berg and Ed Alder took it to the third set in the final rubber to determine the outcome and lost to a strong Seacourt pairing.

The loss of Henry Henman from the team that had scored several 5-0 wins but unfortunately with no more success than 2019.

The Club Singles title went to Ned Batstone over Ali Hakimi, who unfortunately had to scratch just before the Final, with a family crisis, and the Club Doubles (renamed, I am proud to say, the Mick Dean Doubles Trophy) also went to Ned, paired with Charlie Human, who beat Stewart Licudi and Paul Kettle. Sarah Backhouse beat Maggie Henderson-Tew for the Ladies’ title, while Boris Salle beat Martin McNair in the handicap event. John Matthews and Christopher Mackarness successfully defended their title in the Xmas hangover doubles – a club first.

The club has continued to host a number of events. The Scots beat the Irish (at last!) in the 3rd Celtic Challenge, run so successfully by Maggie, while the Dutch National Singles was won by Paul Bollerman who beat Hugo van der Meer in a high-quality final. The British Over 60 doubles was won by Mark Nicholls and Philip Shaw Hamilton (a new pairing) while qualifiers for the Open Singles were also entertained.

A great highlight was the club’s annual exhibition match, which this year featuring 74

Camden Riviere (fresh from victory over Nick Howell in his World Eliminator) who took on both Nino Merola and Levi Gale AND gave them a handicap. Nino and Levi played splendidly and a thoroughly entertaining evening of rallies and retrieval enthralled the crowd. This event was soon after Levi had joined the Radley professional team and confirmed that he is a young player of real promise. It was this team (Chris Ronaldson, Nino Merola and Levi, with Maggie taking on the off-court side of things) who shouldered the burden of re-launching the Oratory club in January, with Levi spending most of his time there before the Coronavirus struck. The membership was built up again rapidly, new members were being attracted and significant momentum had been created. Levi will return there post-Covid, when Rob Fahey takes over as Head Professional.

Grateful thanks, to Chris and Nino, for all they do to ensure the continued success of what is one of the busiest courts in the world. RCTC also had to be content with 2nd spot in the Franklins Solicitors League (for the second year running to Oxford!).

The College team also just fell at the semifinal final in the National Schools Doubles. The Senior pair (Ed Crowston & Max Wetton) lost a nail-biter of a semi-final (after some 5 years of Radley victories): the U16 pair of Magnus Garson & Ed Alder – probably favourites in a strong field – were forced to withdraw with illness on the day. George Acheson-Gray & Jonty Duncan played well but were hampered by an unfortunate draw. The U14 pair of Hugo Acheson-Gray and Ambrose Garson also fell at the semi-final stage, though with honour.

Ed Crowston reached the final of the National Schools’ Singles for the second successive year.

On court, there was much to celebrate. We fielded teams across most of the National League divisions, the RTC A team won the The Royal Tennis Court Pol Roger Cup against Queen’s in March, the

By Michael Day CVO RTC Junior team under the leadership of Sarah Parsons won the Peter Luck-Hille Cup against Seacourt; Tom Freeman beat Phil Dunn in he 2o19/20 season was highly successful three tightly-contested sets to become Club on and off the court. Court use continues Champion last May; and George Sleighthome at almost full capacity – I believe we are won the Latham Browne Cup. the most active single Real Tennis court in the world. Similarly, our membership numbers Around the Club premises, the programme remain strong and we have welcomed a limited of modernisation work continued within the but steady influx of new members to the Club. constraints of a 500-year old building. The social programme was as popular as ever In July 2019, we said goodbye to Chris - more than 200 attended the annual Carol Chapman, returning home to Melbourne after Service and the prize-giving supper took place a wonderful nine years at RTC. Chris worked on court in October. hard to become one of the world’s finest players, reaching number 3. During his time On 23rd March 2020, like every other club in here, he won the French Open singles, the the country, RTC went into lockdown. As I British Open and Australian Open doubles and write, it is unclear when we will be allowed to reached four other open singles finals plus the resume play again. Our members have been final of our own Champions Trophy in 2018. marvellous in almost universally committing Chris was a dedicated professional to RTC’s to continuing their subscriptions unchanged members, in his lessons, marking, tournament and I send a heartfelt vote of thanks to them organising and all other aspects of his job, and for their devotion and support of the Club. We look forward to getting back on Court again as a valued colleague and friend.

After a thorough recruitment process, we were soon as possible. delighted to secure the services of Scott Blaber as our new Senior Professional. Scott moved to Hampton Court Palace with his family from the Head Professional role at Jesmond Dene.

These changes also created a new opportunity for Josh Smith to take on the main tournamentplaying role and he has already played in world-ranking tournaments. We look forward to seeing him realise his fullest potential in the years ahead.

T

In July 2019, we hosted the third Champions Trophy in conjunction with Historic Royal Palaces. Ticket sales were up on the previous two years and spectators witnessed some marvellous Tennis. John Lumley emerged from the draw to meet Rob Fahey in the final, which Rob won in three tight sets. Our thanks go especially to the sponsors Mitsubishi James Simpson MW, Pol Roger Managing Director Electric and all our club volunteers. presents the cup to Phil Dunn, RTC Captain 75

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Seacourt

By Simon Flynn

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n abrupt end to yet another successful season at Seacourt!

Seacourt was well represented in a number of the Junior competitions. At the Junior British open, 11 of the 37 competitors were from the Club. William Flynn won the Under 18s title, building on his Under 16s win in 2018. James Medlow won the Under 16s title, defeating Max Trueman, who he’d lost to in the 2018 under 14s competition. Katie Walker won the Girls Plate competition, defeating Eloise Flynn in the final. George Jameson was runner up in the Under 12s competition, missing out on the title by 2 points.

Olivia Boulton, representing Oaklands Catholic School, secured the National School Girls Under 15 Level Singles & Doubles Championships titles, partnering Marina Hammond of Wellington College in the Doubles.

Max Jones & partner Freddie Bristowe won the National Under 19 Doubles Championships, defeating Max Trueman and James Medlow.

The Brodie Cup team Captained by Nigel “Floor Boast” Ireson, triumphed in the Final at Bridport against Radley.

Both of Seacourts National league teams won the titles in Divisions 5 & 8, with Max Trueman taking Division 8 MVP and William Flynn narrowly missing out on MVP in Division 5.

The Seacourt Silver Racquet, sponsored for the second year running by Peter Luck-Hille, was held at the end of January, attracting Rob Fahey and other top pros from around the country. Seacourt also welcomed back a number of its former Pros, including James Law, Adam Player, Aaron Flippence, Louis Gordon and Nino Merola, joining amateur Silver Racquet veterans Charlie & Luke Danby, with first time appearances for Max Trueman and James Medlow and a second time appearance for William Flynn. After three days of spectacular Tennis the crowd were gifted an equally spectacular final, won by Freddie Bristowe, defeating Luke Danby in the final.

Wellington

By Simon Roundell semi-final at home. It was a great campaign and a pleasure to see the club doing so well he club was having an excellent season having been open for such a relatively short prior to lockdown. The most obvious amount of time. We had two National League highlight was the Pro Singles in October teams. Div 1 (Adam Player and Peter Wright) which gave our membership the chance to fared considerably better than our Div 7 side see the best players in the world in action and (Huw Thomas, John East & Simon Roundell) work out what we are all doing wrong. Many before the season was curtailed. of the members helped with the tournament either through sponsorship or by billeting the The club continues to host a range of internal players – thanks to all of them for making the and external tournaments. Congratulations to tournament a success. We had a full fixture Harry Eddis, this year’s club champion. The club list of club matches throughout the year and also runs elite training days for the Dedanists’ as always the MCC fixture being a highlight Society and coaching days for the Dedanists’ with a feast under the hospitable eye of James Foundation. All of these could not happen McDermott. without the energy, skill and enthusiasm of our pros Danny and Adam. A very strange end to The Brodie Cup team, captained by Graeme the year but we all can’t wait for the court to Marks, fell to a strong Seacourt team in the re-open.

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The Hurlingham Pigeons

By Nick Browne

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he Hurlingham Pigeons contested 11 fixtures prior to the premature end of the season in March. Our thanks as always to all the Clubs and their match managers for the hospitality extended to us over the season.

In our own competitions, the Carse Cup (handicap doubles) was won by Matthew Page and Peter Lovell, defeating holders Donald Carse and Richard Pettit. The Wilson Gong (handicap singles), the Mansfield Trophy (level singles) and the Campione Cup (handicap doubles) all progressed to the semi-final stage prior to the cessation of play and we hope to complete these tournaments later this summer and, if permitted, hold our dinner and prizegiving in September.

Pigeons 30th Anniversary group and guests. In a very closely fought final, father and son pairing of Patrick & Corin Jenkins triumphed over the pairing of Chris Herbert & Richard Dalzell. It was a very fitting win for Patrick who took part in the very first Pigeons match at Queen’s Club in October 1989.

A total of 25 beginners attended two In October 2019 the Pigeons celebrated the introductory sessions at Queen’s in January.

30th Anniversary of their formation with a This was the third year running of good interest handicap doubles tournament at Queen’s Club for beginners’ evenings and bodes well for followed by a celebratory dinner for 34 player interest in the sport within Hurlingham’s ranks.

The final play of the year – internal pennant on the Friday eve that the court was closed 77

The ‘David Norman Galleries’ Dinner Queen’s Club Sept 16th 2019 Mr Chairman, former Chairmen, Peter and Robin, and Members of the current Queen’s Club Board, may I first and foremost thank you abundantly for initiating what I know to be a unique and historic naming Honour of three Queen’s Galleries and Rooms…….in my name. A first by and for Queen’s

Club……and for me. I am immensely grateful, recognising it reflects 40 years of our collective endeavour together, to achieve for Queen’s by determined renaissance the recognition, once again, as being The Finest Racket and Tennis Club, Real and Lawn, in the World with stellar facilities, playing and social to match. It was, for sure not always thus!

However, you here tonight, will be the first to recognise and value that such endeavours can only be collective achievements born of love of these games and resolve, to achieve these goals. Each of you here has played a key role – individually and collectively, over the past 40 years. I salute each one of you. Let me clarify some key moments in this Odyssey: My romance with Queen’s started in 1957 winning the Schools Under 16 Singles Rackets Championships. The Incledon Webber Cup – played before a highly raked, drafty Gallery on the ‘Old Court’ built in 1887 by the celebrated Mr Bickley.

In 1979, when one LTA/QC Board Member declared “Queen’s Club is a Can of Worms”, and then this perilous Rackets Gallery and surrounding rooms burnt down in a mysterious fire. Queen’s Club was

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at its ‘nadir’ – “a place of developing dilapidation” observed Chairman Ivor Boden and with no funds forthcoming from an LTA, owner, disinterested if not disdainful of Rackets and Real Tennis.

However, one Richard Lynedoch Orlando Bridgeman, “Dick” (and father of Constantine, our Queen’s Club member and with us here this evening) brilliantly and crucially achieved in 1958 the creation of ‘The Young Professionals Fund’ to find, train, employ and fund a new vital core of Young Professionals without whom both games of Rackets and Tennis would surely have folded. He, with Anthony Ward Morys Aberdare (Chairman of Queen’s Club), Tom and the Pugh Family, David Scholey (here tonight champion trumpet player correspondent for ‘The Field’ and Master Banker and reasonably nimble Rackets player) also Roddy Bloomfield, Champion and author/collector – refuelled our games, initiated the very successful Queen’s Rackets and Tennis weekends, (key to our social fabric) and enhanced the fund which gave birth to what is today the DBTRA Fund. Jamie Bruce, here with us this evening, has been ‘The Chairman’ for several years. It plays such a key role.

Dick asked me initially in 1981 to raise £6,000 for urgent new lighting and renovations for the Old Court. Mission was accomplished. Dick died tragically young in 1982, and Morys proceeded to lasso me, in the House of Lords at a most inconvenient time (as I was just founding my own new business) to become the Chairman of the T&RA. We had an Hon Secretary Martin Scott, accommodated then in a cupboard at Queen’s Club!, but some good voluntary support and within a year a new paid Secretary, a resolve to work in close partnership with Queen’s Club and a 5-year plan for Queen’s to become the British and Global Headquarters of Tennis and Rackets – proclaimed at the first and only Annual Dinner held in the No. 1 Real Tennis Court at Queen’s under the eye of the House of Commons ‘Speaker’ Bernard Weatherill. (a model of stability vs the current Speaker Bercow!)

Equally important, we resolved to refurbish the two Queen’s Tennis Courts, completely rebuild the Dedans Viewing Galleries, create a new Tennis Museum Room, new working/stringing rooms for

the Professionals and RECONSTITUTE the second Rackets Court which had been converted to two Squash Courts in 1926. You couldn’t be an effective Global Rackets Centre without two Courts. It was a very major project, started in 1985…….the builder went bust, the front wall subsided, all the walls re-plastered and a new high Minstrel’s Gallery constructed above the poor LTA Rackets Galleries designed to accommodate their offices underneath. It required, over £440,000 funding by us the T&RA because neither the LTA or QC (it’s subsidiary) would inject any money into the project.

Indeed we also made a £20,000 contribution to QC to help build their three new replacement Squash Courts. We for sure played our part in this Reformation.

Many of you here this evening were vital funding contributors in 1985-88 to this – your names writ large on the Benefactors/Patrons Board in our new Real Tennis Dedans Lobby downstairs – amongst them one Devie Hamlen, owner, proprietor and developer of the Boston USA Tennis and Rackets Club, and key organiser Captain of the USA 1976 Olympic Quadrathlon Rackets Team – the foundation of the subsequent international exchanges – Devie has flown the Atlantic this weekend to be with us here tonight.

Some contributor he and you all have been.

Rackets and Tennis was thus reignited at QC by 1986/87. It was a new era and marked by the 14 DAY Rackets/Tennis Lawn and Real, Squash and Golf Quintathlon Championships in 1986 embracing 90 contestants including competitors from all the seven North American Clubs here at Queen’s Club.

Equally vitally behind the two games stood our stalwart Sponsors – Dan and John Prenn since early 1980s to today through Celestion and then Lacoste and now ‘Play Brave’…….and John Ritblat formidably and stylishly after an 18 month ‘serenade’ – indeed a memorable fandango for 15 years through British Land. Without them our games would not have survived, nor our Professionals here at QC of whom we have Ben Bomford, David Johnson and our stellar World Champions Rob Fahey, James Male and Howard Angus and John Prenn alongside us tonight.

In 1989 we were blessed with the appointment of “The Brigadier” our first T&RA Chief Executive.

And what an operator for 11 years he proved to be.

A brilliant Wykehamist and Military Mind. A quiet but huge impact for 11 years in fully reshaping our organisation and doubling our membership Interestingly and crucially, this major new Racket & Tennis Rebuild Programme in the mid 1980s required a formal 30 year Legal Agreement which I insisted in having drawn up between the T&RA

and the LTA/Queen’s Club which required these four Courts, including the new Bridgeman Court, the Tennis Dedans & Pros Rooms to be kept by QC in top condition for the next 50 years i.e. until 2037. This Agreement became key evidence and defining deterrent in the bitter battle in 2004/6 when our Members bought back the ownership of the Club for £36 million from the LTA. The crucial individual to achieve this vital and rejuvenating transaction for the Quenen’s Club was Peter Begg - his tenacity and personal commitment to achieve this was phenomenal. He was a good Rackets player but more importantly a brilliant lawyer. In 2006 he achieved his and our vital goal – Independence from the LTA. Thank you Peter, my admiration is boundless. Roll on the day we secure the Freehold of QC! Tony Dhanoa, our diligent Finance Director, now looks well resourced to do so and we have the relevant financial and property skills around this table to surely find the solution (‘pace John Ritblat!’)

And so onwards to 2009 – the opportunity to transform the dreadfully inadequate viewing galleries of the two Rackets Courts above the Victorian Ladies Changing Rooms (defined by Virginia Wade as “The Stables”) and elimination of the LTA offices behind the Rackets Courts emerged as a Priority in a new QC Five Year Board Plan. So also did the complete redesign of the First Floor Social and Dining Rooms, the drab Presidents Room and what is now the new Members Bar – the most underutilised room at Queen’s with the new elevated Viewing Gallery into the No.1 Real Tennis Court. It is a triumph of concept and design (thank you Simon Mansfield).

Sitting here on my right is the architectural maestro, Edward Hill, who in conjunction with Andrew Stewart, our new Chief Executive in 2009 brought about over the next 6 years a total transformation of the so called ‘Link Room’ to the Rackets Courts, the wonderful retreat to the Oasis of the new Terrace Room, the unrecognisable new Ladies’ Changing Rooms below, the complete make over, structural and interior design, of this Presidents Room in which we are now dining and, of course, the new Grille Restaurant and the new Members Bar. Bravo Edward!

I do hope the new photo/portrait of Andrew Stewart with Union Jack and Queen’s Trophy Cup, hung here six weeks ago, will be reinstated this week. It is so appropriate and uplifting.

HOWEVER Edward’s greatest innovation was arguably his and Mervyn D Jefferson’s totally new Raked Rackets Galleries which provided vastly improved and larger unimpeded viewing also an intense arena, with seldom impartial atmosphere.

Andrew Stewart loved them. I wish he could have

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been with us this evening. A notable CEO of QC and a 10-year enhancer of our fabric and facilities and a devoted spectator of our Rackets.

One gentleman here tonight has provided months/ years of dedicated analysis on sight lines, improved racket court surfaces and ball construction – I refer of course to Howard Angus – not only one of only three men ever to hold both the Tennis and the Rackets World Singles Championships alongside Peter Latham in the 1890s and Jim Dear in the 1950s, but somebody totally dedicated as a professional of over 30 years to the enhancement of both our games of Rackets and Tennis (not only here at Queen’s Club but also across the United Kingdom). Howard I salute you and thank you profoundly. As also I do Charles Hue Williams, Alan Lovell and Patrick Maxwell and others here who have led so many vital Rackets and Tennis initiatives as Chairmen of key Committees over the past 40 years; in consequence our games are thriving and the current ‘Brown Advisory’ Rackets Sponsorship with you at its helm Peter Mallinson – not only here, in full banner display at Queen’s Club but also crucially throughout the Schools Championships, in both December and March with over 220 school boy and girl participants, plus parents warmly welcomed by Queen’s Club in the Terrace Room, The Grille and the Galleries. It is, for sure a changed and promising scene, and I am so delighted that through the new viewing gallery of the new Members Bar there is now easy and ample opportunity for our Lawn Tennis contingent of Queen’s Membership to savour the intricacies and finesse of the older 13th century Real Tennis

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game – Queen’s Club at the heart of both for its players and spectators now so comfortably accommodated. Indeed I am delighted tonight to bequeath to QC/TRA the lit Portrait, on loan from me, of ‘Raymond Masson, Master Tennis Player of the 18th Century’ in this new North Gallery – to match “The Bateman Prints” already hanging in the Terrace Room in the South Wing.

We, Queen’s Club, now have every reason to be very proud at having staged here only a year ago the Real Tennis World Championships with Robert Fahey (aged 40++) regaining his Crown with a demonstration for us over three days of supreme technical, tactical and mental fortitude (I watched it, exhilarated, from the QC ‘Crows Nest’ top Gallery) – what a treat for us all. And now in two months time we will have here at QC the Rackets World Championship Singles being played: Yes, we are surely now the Global Headquarters for these two games with facilities to match.

Let’s now keep it that way for the next 20 years, alongside the iconic staging of our notably enhanced Queen’s Club Fever Tree Tennis Championships to ensure we are at the distinctive apex of all three of these Tennis and Rackets Sports for our 150th Anniversary in 2036. It is now my ardent hope that QC will secure a new Ten Year Sponsorship with Fever Tree and the freehold from the LTA. So, in conclusion, Mr Chairman, I thank you and your Board Colleagues immensely for this distinctive, indeed unique, Naming Honour of ‘The Norman Galleries’ by the Queen’s Club. I shall carry it with pride and ever increasing affection for all my

days remaining. Thank you for also allowing me to select “The Guests” and the Menu for tonight.

‘Floreat Queen’s Club’ and my best wishes to our new Chief Executive Ross Niland alongside the current Board of Queen’s and the T&RA and its Chief Executive Chris Davies in their vital future endeavours and collaboration.

‘Per Ardua ad Astra’ would be a perfect motto for us covering the past 40 years. Onwards………….The Queen’s Club. I give you the toast - “Queen’s Club ad Astra”!

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Tennis & Rackets Association

Rackets Initiatives: 2020/21 Season

Development Squad of the sessions is to introduce some talented players to the regime that it takes to play top level Rackets, allow them to see some of the drills used by the top players and hopefully strengthen the future of the game. Previous recipients of the Development Squad have included James Coyne, Will Hopton and Alex Titchener-Barratt who have all gone on to be Doubles World Champions respectively.

Further sessions are planned for the 2021/22 season. In exchange for participation in the The Development Squad will be a programme Development Squad, the T&RA will ask designed by our current World Champion, Tom for players to commit to playing two adult Billings, who will hold three two-hour sessions tournaments, either in the UK or the USA in for up-and-coming players in the first quarter 2021 and the recipients will each receive a of 2021 (Covid-19 depending). The purpose Grays racquet at cost price.

The T&RA are delighted to be supporting the re-introduction and rejuvenation of the Development Squad program. This will allow some of the top ranked Rackets players to provide coaching and support to some of the most talented 18-28 year old male and female players. Former world champions, John Prenn and Tim Cockroft are great supporters of the scheme

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Tennis & Rackets Association

Exhibitions The T&RA in conjunction with the World's top Amateur Players are progressing an initiative based on improving the outreach of the elite game. This programme will be commenced in the 2020/21 season via Rackets demonstrations and doubles exhibitions at the Rackets playing schools throughout the UK. It is our hope that this will provide a fabulous 'shop window' of Rackets at the top level and in turn inspire the young players of today. The majority of premier Rackets tournaments in the UK are based at The Queen’s Club, in contrast the young players of today do not have the same opportunity to experience the game at the highest level. The primary aim of this scheme is to improve the link between the school game and the open game; showing that Rackets does not end when you leave school. Alex Duncliffe-Vines will be organising these showcase pieces and it is hoped they will be supported across the country.

The school visits will be administered in conjunction with the Rackets Professional Association (RPA). The format of play will be a doubles match which will aim to regularly involve multiple members of the top 20 ranked players in the World.

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Tennis & Rackets Association This season has seen significant action on and off the court. Some amazing Rackets at the top of the men’s and women’s game, including the inaugural Ladies World Doubles Championship, and hours of work behind the scenes. We had a peculiar end to the season with Covid 19 that has put a dampener on proceedings.

We have had to cancel some events, including the Open Doubles.

This season the Inaugural Ladies World Doubles Championships was played at Wellington who put on a terrific event. The standard of play was excellent, showcasing the ladies’ game and the fantastic support it generates. The World Championship match was between Tara Lumley and India Deakin versus Lea Van der Zwalmen and Luisa Gengler-Saint. There were numerous rallies which kept the gallery's close attention. Thank you to Lea Van der Zwalmen, whose energy and enthusiasm is legendary and her relentless will to succeed in both sports is ever apparent. Her infectious drive has ensured that many ladies continue to play both during and after school and we applaud her for everything she does in growing Rackets.

The professional world is ever thriving and Ben Cawston (Wellington) has played a huge role as a young playing elite member! Rob Horn has proved an immeasurable success at Cheltenham and will continue his training again next season. He has shown a great love for the game and we hope he continues to bloom as an assistant professional.

Some of you may know that Phil Rosser has retired from Rugby. He has served the community for over four decades and has delivered and shared his wisdom throughout. He will be sorely missed.

The scholarship programme continues to flourish despite an early finish for some candidates given the pandemic. Ed Hyde has continued the hard work and we thank him. It is such an integral programme for retention of players and it is so well received by our American cousins. As ever, upon their return to home soil, scholars are encouraged to participate.

The National Schools once again saw another capacity draw across all categories in the boy’s events and fantastic numbers in the girl’s tournaments. A huge achievement for all the school professionals, who continue to deliver great quality and quantity among the school players. Thank you to the RPA for all they do in organising the tournaments and we look forward to some more great events next season.

We were thrilled to see the opening of the Harrow Old Court following its refurbishment. The aptly named Prenn Hue Williams court is now fit for play. A fantastic addition to the Rackets world and thank you to all of the supporters and donors. A really positive step for the game and proof that it is in good health. Well done to John Eaton.

The World Ranking System is able to enter nontournament matches, encouraging players to take part in more competitive play and in turn will make the system more accurate. If you have agreed before you play your match then please email Tom Billings

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(billingst@sky.com) with your results. The Elite World Rankings continues to excite the players. The new dimension it has given to the competitive play is apparent and has raised some other key issues that seek to modernise the approaches we take to the game to keep it relevant.

Under the watchful eye of James Coyne Mike Bailey, changes have been made to achieve this Chairman of the which were rolled out last Rackets Committee season. To enquire about this and how it can help you, whatever standard you play, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Mike or the T&RA office.

I would like to take this opportunity to reiterate our thanks to Mark Farmiloe for his tireless work as Chairman of the Rackets World Championship Committee.

My sincere thanks to Brown Advisory for their sponsorship of our great game. They have shown total commitment and have thrown themselves into our great sport. I thank them for their generosity. I would also like to thank John Prenn for sponsoring the World Championships. He is a bastion of our sport and has always shown enormous generosity.

On behalf of all the members, I would like to thank Chris, Andrina and Olga from the T&RA Office for all their hard work and all they do for the game. Their efforts ensure the Rackets is kept in an extremely healthy position.

I would also like to thank Pol Roger, The Queen’s Club, Tim Edwards and all tournament organisers for their commitment to maintaining standards and in supporting Rackets. It is essential work and we can’t thank you enough for your undertakings.

II would like to thank those who have made the commitment under our Patrons Scheme over the years: their extraordinary generosity enables us to deliver on our promise to keep the game financially healthy and secure its progression.

A heartfelt goodbye from me. I have sat on the Rackets committee for the past 15 years, with the last five of those serving as Chairman and on the Board. I have received such a thrill from being a part of the game at this level and helping where I can. It has come to a time whereby I need to take a break from the administration to focus on other areas of life but will remain very active on the circuit and look forward to seeing the great plans the Committee has developed. I am very pleased to say that I have handed over the Chairmanship to Rory Sutton, who I know will do the most tremendous job.

He is as passionate about Rackets and his commitment to drive our sport forward is ever apparent. Thank you to all of you for making this such a pleasurable job to do and thank you Rory for stepping in to replace me.

A hugely successful 2019/20 season. PLAY!

Rackets

Noel Bruce Cup 2019 Winchester win the Noel Bruce Cup Final When Winchester last won the Noel Bruce Cup, Stanley Baldwin was Prime Minister, Malcolm Campbell had just broken the 300mph land speed record and events in Germany gave a whole different meaning to Brexit. Three years ago, Winchester came close, but in 2019 it was to be their year. Mike Bailey and Christian Portz both played a magnificent match to beat rivals Cheltenham by four games to one. Nick James and Alex Duncliffe-Vines put up stiff resistance, before being swept aside by an imperious Portz in the fourth and fifth games.

The first two games were extraordinarily tight affairs with both pairs playing their part. Rallies were long and generally won with a top-class shot rather than points squandered. All four players covered the court well, covering shots to force a let. Mike Bailey was rock solid, missing little and seemingly covering the court with ease. Partner, Christian Portz, was increasing his awareness and reach with every shot. Nick James consistently played his high overhead backhand volley to spectacular effect, which Alex Duncliffe-Vines showed why he would shortly be challenging for the World Singles crown. Four great players in top form. The games could have gone either way but it was Winchester who steered their cause across the line, taking a two love lead, 15/10 15/10.

The third game saw Winchester relax their grip and Cheltenham took their chance. Great play by all but now Cheltenham were in the ascendency, closing ever nearer to game point and inevitably winning the game 15/4. The challenge was set, the next game would be absolutely critical, and Cheltenham held the momentum.

What happened next was extraordinary. Portz stepped up his game to a new level, serving with deadly accuracy, while partner, Bailey, mopped up anything which reached the ball wall. A deadly combination and the vital fourth saw a seismic

shift in the dynamic of the match, and very heavily towards Winchester. The game was won 15/1, a deadly blow to Cheltonian chances, sweeping the Wykehamists into a 3-1 lead. The match was now heading only one-way and the fifth and final set was similar to the fourth as Winchester’s hunger drove them towards their second ever Noel Bruce Cup, also winning the game 15/1.

A well-deserved victory for Winchester and payback for the disappointment of 2016.

Christian Portz & Mike Bailey Charles Hue Williams, T&RA Vice President, presented the prestigious cup along with their winners’ Pol Roger champagne. He noted the ever consistent marking of Queen’s professional Ben Bomford, and the steady hand of referee Paddy Sutton. A special mention to tournament organiser, Ed Hyde, who had mustered 54 pairs for the event, a magnificent effort and vital to retain the interest of the 18-25 year olds. Special mention also to Howard Angus and Steve Tulley who marked virtually all the matches from qualifying through to the semi-finals – a Herculean effort thanks to Ed!

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Rackets

Matchplay August 2019 - March 2020

Clifton Cup 2019 Clifton Cup. Mike Bailey & Paddy Sutton beat Ben Cawston & Tommy Probert 12/15 15/12 15/11 in a nail-biting final.

Ben Cawston retained his Singles title.

Manchester Gold Racquet 2019 Alex Duncliffe-Vines wins the Manchester Gold Racquet Mike Bailey & Nick James win the doubles in a five-game thriller Eight pairs entered the Manchester Gold Racquet in 2019, a smaller number of entries than usual, but ideal from an organisational standpoint. What we lacked in quantity, however, was more than made up for by the quality of the draw.

The Final on Sunday morning, therefore, promised an epic contest between the second and fourth seeds; and that is exactly what 86

Alex Duncliffe-Vines & Ben Cawston the gallery got. In a thrilling match lasting an hour and fifty minutes, Mike Bailey & Nick James overcame Alex Duncliffe-Vines & Ben Cawston to take the title by three games to two. The early exchanges set the pattern with a number of fine rallies during which Bailey was outstanding playing forward on the right.

An example of his skill and timing was an extreme angled shot from the front right to win a splendid rally at 6 all. Despite plenty of powerful & skilful play from both sides, however, Bailey & James moved decisively ahead to lead 14/7 and saw off a late charge by their opponents to take the first game 15/10.

In the second game, despite some fine shots

by Duncliffe-Vines & Cawston, Bailey & James were on top throughout. Bailey maintained his wonderful form, playing mainly forward on the right, punching through the ball and missing little, whilst his partner covered the left-hand

Rackets side and the back of the court. So they were able to take the game 15/3. But there was still all to play for, as soon became apparent in the third game. DuncliffeVines & Cawston went into an early 6/1 lead with some fine serving

by Duncliffe-Vines in particular. Bailey & James then started to reassert themselves, with Bailey again playing with great skill & judgement, pegging their opponents back to a lead of 6/5. But then mistakes began to creep into their game and they struggled to regain the initiative and their opponents eventually won the game 15/9.

Neither side could make a decisive move during the opening stages of the fourth game, though the play was of the highest standard. But from 7 all, Duncliffe-Vines & Cawston opened up a significant gap, taking them to 12/7 and they soon moved on to take the game 15/9. So all was set for a decisive final game. The play ebbed & flowed in the early exchanges, with neither side able to gain a clear advantage.

Whilst Duncliffe-Vines was serving well, Bailey was having difficulty in holding his serve. But Duncliffe-Vines & Cawston then managed to advance their score to 8/5, at which point the gallery was able to savour some of the finest rallies of the match. Despite fine play from their opponents, Duncliffe-Vines & Cawston took their score to 10/8 and then 11/10.

Cawston then served wide to James who ran it down and put the ball to the back of the court where it died, letting Bailey & James back in hand. After a further change

Dressed for Dinner at Manchester

of service hands, Bailey & James were able to serve their way to victory, winning 15/10 15/3 9/15 9/15 15/11. The applause from the gallery rang long and loud, acknowledging a magnificent match which showed the great game of Rackets at its very best.

The Singles Final was something of an anti-climax. It was the last match to be played on the Sunday; and Cawston was out of sorts from the outset. DuncliffeVines, on the other hand, continued to show the strength, athleticism, power and skill which he had displayed in his semi-final and was able to win the match comfortably 15/8 15/1 15/2.

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Matchplay August 2019 - March 2020

Brown Advisory Ladies British Open Doubles 2019

Wellington College played Georgie Gunn and Minty Knowles. Both pairs served well, but the extra power of the Wellington duo meant Gunn and Knowles were always on the back foot.

After the first game finished 15/3 it was much of the same in the second and Thorneycroft and Gooding finished it off taking the second game 15/7 The second semi-final was a slightly closer affair. Georgie Willis and Tara Lumley, who moved up to the first seed spot after Lea Van der Zwalmen withdrew for personal reasons, played the fourth seeded Cheltenham pair Abbie Whybrow and Fionnuala DowlingMembrado. The first game ebbed and flowed between the two pairs, who were engaged in some excellent rallies, before Tara and Georgie served it out 15/11. The second game was very competitive, but the court experience of the older pair showed winning it 15/3 and a place in the final.

Victorious:- Tara and Georgie Results and report Brown Advisory Ladies British Open Doubles 2019.

Another great British Ladies Open was played over the weekend at Malvern College. This year saw the competition grow again with 17 enthusiastic and very capable pairs playing in the main draw and a plate competition.

In the first semi-final last years winners Issie Thorneycroft and Lauren Gooding from 88

The top two seeded pairs then met in what was to be an epic encounter. The first game set the tone for the match, with some excellent serving, returning and long rallies, the packed gallery was in for treat. At 9-9 Lauren went on a good serving run and managed to establish a 14-9 lead, but couldn’t close the game out.

The Wellington pair managed to win the serve back, but having two game points they couldn’t get over the line. Tara then served well to take it to a set and serve it out to take the first game 17/15. The second game was just as exciting as the first. Tara and Georgie took a 13-7 lead, but Lauren and Issie were not giving up! After fighting back to 10-13, they quickly won the serve back and from 10-13 won the second game 18/13 with some very controlled hitting.

Rackets The third game was a little quicker than the others with both Georgie and Tara serving a very good length, which meant it was very hard for Lauren and Issie to get a foothold in the game. After getting to 11-6 quite comfortably Tara served the game out to take it 15/6. The Fourth game was back to being a close affair with all four players now starting to feel the pace of a long day. With the serving not quite so effective, more unforced errors were starting to creep in and it was becoming a match of attrition as well as some hugely entertaining Rackets. Serving runs of four or five points for both pairs were common now and at 11-10, 1311 and 14-12, Issie managed to finish the game off 15/12 and take it into a final and deciding game.

play Alice Vyvyan-Robinson and Tilly Wood.

The first game was comfortably won 15/0

by Flo and Hannah, serving extremely well to an excellent length. However, a spirited fight by Tilly and Alice made for a much more competitive second game and although they lost it 15/11 a great deal of credit should go to their resilience and fantastic attitude.

This meant the Norman Rosser Salver was deservedly won 15/0 15/11 by Flo and Hannah.

No one knew how this was going to turn out. The power of the Wellington pair looked ominous, but the competitive spirit and big match experience of Tara and Georgie was also going to be a huge factor. Issie and Lauren took an early lead and at 10-5 looked to be in control.

Issie was moving around the court well and Lauren was hitting some blistering forehands, however Tara and Georgie stayed in the match with some amazing returning and volleying off the side walls. The lead was getting shorter, no more than a couple of points, 10-7 then 12-10, but finally the Wellington pair had a match point 14-10 on the second hand in. Lauren served to Tara who hit a great volley back to the server, but Lauren couldn’t manage the pace and hit the ball into the tin. Tara then started to get her composure back on serve and reeled off seven points in a row for them to have a match point of their own. This was returned beautifully

by Lauren, which won the point and gave Georgie another chance at winning the match.

After a few seconds to gather herself Georgie produced an inch perfect serve for an ace and with it the Ladies British Open Championship.

All four ladies gave everything for the cause and should be proud of their part in this thrilling match.

Finally congratulations to Tara and Georgie on their victory and all the players for their attitude throughout the day.

Everyone who came on Sunday had a great day of Rackets and it was amazing to see such full galleries enjoying some excellent Rackets.

A big thank you to all the Pro’s who came along to help and support and we look forward to next year being even bigger and better.

Noel Brett Master in Charge/Head Coach of Rackets Malvern College

The plate competition was an all Cheltenham affair seeing Flo Fletcher and Hannah Wood Flo and Hannah with the Norman Rosser Salva 89

Rackets

Matchplay August 2019 - March 2020

World Rackets Championship 2019

A New World Champion!

Tom Billings is the new World Champion, beating Alex DuncliffeVines 15/10 15/10 15/14 15/2 in Detroit.

Tom had won the first leg 18/14 15/11 15/3 15/1 at the Queen's Club.

Two tight games saw the balance of power swap back and forth between Tom Billings and Alex Duncliffe-Vines, but it was Tom who closed out both to lead two games to love. Sadly, with Tom ahead in the third game, Alex suffered severe cramp in his playing arm and the match dramatically fell away from him, playing out a painful fourth game to trail love-four.

John Prenn announced the two contenders, Tom Billings and Alex Duncliffe-Vines in front of a packed Gallery at the Queen's Club. The match started cautiously, with both players understandably tentative in the early exchanges after months of preparation. Tom was playing with greater width, recovering the shots which Alex played into the tight angles. After four hands apiece, the score was still 2-2. A couple of penetrating serves from Alex saw him move ahead, albeit briefly. In the next hand, Tom came back strongly, playing solid Rackets reeling off seven points on his next hand to lead 9-4, the early breakthrough, including a magnificent rally. Alex 90

Rackets

broke the pattern and won a superb point of his own to reduce the deficit, but three more points saw Tom pull further ahead 12-5. But Alex wasn't beaten and played an outrageous winner to claim the serve and strung together his own run of six points to trail by a point. Both players now laboured to claim the first game, sharing points as they both inched closer. Tom had a chance at 14-13 but Alex played a deft shot to level again; Tom called a set to five. Winning back the service, Tom made the early running, 3-0. Alex pulled a point back but it was Tom who steadied to win the critical points on his next hand; 18/14, and the first, all-important game.

The second game saw more of the same with a closely fought few hands apiece seeing Alex marginally ahead 1-0. Tom struck back 4-1 and then 6-1. Now Alex rallied and took back the serve followed by six of his own points to re-establish a narrow 7-6 lead, which included a stunning overhead drop shot, played to perfection. Then a further two points from Alex gave him some breathing space at 9-6. But now Tom started moving Alex around the court more, won back the serve and four further points to lead 10-9. It was very close but both players slowly picked up points and despite another mesmerising overhead drop shot from Alex, it was Tom closing in 1210, then 13-11, before Tom won the two more points needed, 15/11, and a two love lead.

There was a steely determination at the start of the third game which saw Alex take an early, but brief 3-0 lead. Tom rallied back to 4-3 immediately and then both players dug in. Alex was now playing with much variation to keep Tom guessing, but Tom made the decisive move and moved into the lead before Alex pulled up in obvious pain and called for an injury break. Sadly, he was unable to recover and struggled for the remainder of the game, bravely contesting to no avail as Tom closed out the game 15/3. There wasn't much Alex could do in the fourth, although he did stem the onrushing tide at 1-4. But Tom was steadily closing in, and Alex was increasingly unable to hold his racquet and the end was inevitable, with Tom finally winning 15/1.

Tom took a four love lead to Detroit and won the one necessary game 15/10 to become the next World Champion. Under the new procedures, the match was completed with Tom winning 15/10 15/10 15/14 15/2. Many congratulations to Tom Billings, the new Singles World Champion.

On Saturday afternoon Tom won the first and only game needed 15/10 to clinch the title having led 4-0 versus Alex Duncliffe-Vines after the first leg at The Queen’s Club.

A packed Detroit gallery eagerly anticipated this match aware of Alex’s ability and previous come backs. Both players started tentatively experimenting with length and width on a cold Detroit court. At 5-5 it was anyone’s guess. Later on in the first game Tom started to serve more freely and place the ball deeper into the back corners and had an impressive run to distance himself to 14-10 and bring up championship point. Serving his recognizable double handed backhand from the right box he served one final ace and with that became World Champion.

At the prize giving NARA president, Michael McLernon congratulated Tom on his hard work and disciplined preparation for this title. Tom has been dominant in singles tournaments over the qualifying period and he is a well deserving champion. Alex should also be proud of where he has got to, there is no doubt we will be seeing Alex on this stage again in the future.

Special thanks must go to the entire team at the Detroit Racket Club for hosting a very memorable event.

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EVOLUTION

hen I first started playing Rackets in the late 1950s, there were no ladies or girls playing the game.

There were precious few ladies playing Real Tennis either, and the chauvinistic comment was made that the racquets in the two games

there was no competitive ladies Rackets. Judy found it extraordinary that one plucky schoolgirl had to play in a boys’ event at the Christmas Schools Championships. Even after a number of the schools with Rackets courts became co-educational, and small numbers of girls began to play, girls’ competitive Rackets failed to ignite, perhaps partially because there were no Ladies tournaments to anticipate, once the few girl players left school. There were also no inter-school matches for the girls, so little opportunity for schoolgirls to participate and improve their game.

were too heavy for females. Nonetheless the number of ladies playing Real Tennis slowly increased, the Ladies Real Tennis Association was formed in 1981, and by 1985 there were Ladies World Championships at Singles and Doubles. These days it is hard to imagine why it had taken so long for the growth of ladies Real Tennis to take off. When one has watched such luminaries as Penny Lumley, Charlotte Cornwallis, and especially current world Champion Claire Fahey play the most wonderful Tennis, the old prejudices seem ludicrous.

When I became Rackets Professional at Queen’s in 2002, after six years at Haileybury, it was part of my agenda to encourage ladies Rackets amongst the Members. My hope was that if we could establish a Queen’s Ladies Rackets tournament, this might be widened to become the Ladies Amateur Championship.

At that time Queen’s had one talented lady player, Alison Cockcroft, who was a regular participant in the Queen’s Autumn and Spring Handicap Weekends, and she was more than capable of competing in these handicap events.

Around 1970, when my wife-to-be, Judy Hall, was Games Manager at The Queen’s Club (and the first female lawn tennis coach at the Club),

My first initiative was to start Wednesday evening open sessions for lady Members, including coaching, and getting them used to

The of Girls & Ladies Rackets

W

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the daunting challenge of being on a Rackets court! Although many Members attended regularly, we didn’t reach the target of at least eight lady players courageous enough to enter a Club tournament. That is to say, no success on this objective until a lawn tennis member, Alex Kurkjian (now Alex Brodie) tried Rackets and immediately became hooked! As well as working hard on her own game, Alex encouraged many of her lawn tennis friends to try Rackets. Interest blossomed at Queen’s due to Alex’s enthusiasm and this coincided in 2011 with the Rackets Professionals Association introducing a Girls’ Events at the National Schools Championships at Queen’s.

This would give the relatively small number of girls who were playing on their home courts the opportunity to enter a competition at the great Queen’s Club. At the same time Alex was working with Chris Davies, T&RA CEO, to start a Ladies National Championships set up at Queen’s. 2011 was the watershed year in Ladies/Girls Rackets. My wife, Judy, presented a cup, (the Judy Angus Cup) for the Senior Schoolgirls and Paul Danby presented a Cup for the Under 16 girls, the Beryl Danby Cup, named after his mother (one of the few lady Real Tennis players in the 1960s). All these new Ladies and Girls Events were enthusiastically supported and sponsored by Robin Geffen, founder of Neptune Investment Management, the Rackets and Real Tennis sponsor at that time.

The first winner of the Senior Schoolgirls’ Singles was Lucinda Pigott, who beat fellow Cliftonian Emma Powell in the final. Millie Pughe of Wellington was the winner of the Under 16 Singles, beating Jess Billings, (sister of current World Champion Tom Billings) in the final.

In the inaugural Ladies Open Singles in 2011, Claire Vigrass, already ranked No. 1 in the world at Real Tennis, showed her exceptional class as an athlete in beating in the final Barbara Vintcent, a Queen’s Member and a South African squash player, with something to spare.

Claire went on to win three more Ladies Open Singles titles, all against Alex Kurkjian/Brodie in the final. Claire’s natural ability at Rackets

set the initial competitive standards to which other players could aspire.

In 2013 Malvern College hosted the first Ladies Doubles Championships on the re-furbished ‘Ron Hughes Courts’ and the tournament was won by Alex Brodie and Karen Hird. This event

Georgie Willis & Alex Brodie win the Amateur Rackets Doubles in 2015 continues each year to be held at Malvern and is splendidly organized and supported by the School, with ever increasing numbers of participants, especially from girls at Clifton, Cheltenham and Wellington.

The next big step forward for Ladies Rackets came in 2014 when Lea Van der Zwalmen burst onto the scene. When she went to Clifton in the 6th Form she was already a Junior Squash Champion in France, and she adapted her squash skills with remarkable rapidity to the game of Rackets, under the skilled tutelage of Clifton Professional, Reggie Williams. Lea won the Senior Girls Championships in 2014 and 2015, and a few weeks before leaving school won the final Eliminator for the inaugural 2015 Ladies World Championship in order to 93

qualify to play Ladies Open Champion Claire Fahey in the Challenge Match. This contest between Claire and Lea was a classic encounter, the first time these two outstanding players had played each other, and undoubtedly produced the finest display of Ladies Rackets seen to date. Lea took the

opening game 16/14 in the set, added the second 15/12, only for Claire to come back to take the third game 15/10. At 9-all in the fourth it seemed that it was still all to play for, but it was Lea who then made a decisive run to 14-9, match point.

Claire got back into hand, but Lea regained the serve and took the next point to become the first Ladies World Champion.

Tim Cockroft (World Doubles Champion 2011-13), who knows a thing or two about Rackets, after this match said “Lea’s backhand is technically as good as any backhand I have seen from someone at school in over 30 years of watching Rackets – boy or girl!”

Lea retained her World Title in 2017 and 2019, both times beating Georgie Willis in the Challenge match. The two respective current Ladies World Singles Champions, Claire at Real Tennis and Lea at Rackets, have proved to be exceptional ambassadresses for Real Tennis and Rackets, setting the very highest standards of play on court, but also working tirelessly to promote the games in every way they can.

Lea Van der Zwalmen beat Claire Fahey to become the first ever Ladies World Champion.

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2020 saw another milestone for Ladies Rackets with the first Ladies Doubles World Championship, held at Wellington College and won by Tara Lumley and India Deakin, who beat Lea Van der Zwalmen and Luisa Saint in the final. As Tara also holds the Ladies World Real Tennis Doubles with Claire, it is worth noting that Tara becomes the

India Deakin & Tara Lumley World Doubles Champions 2019 only person since Peter Latham, over a century ago, to concurrently hold a world title at both Rackets and Real Tennis!

Lea van Der Zwalmen with her name on the board!

The number of participants in the Schoolgirls’ Championships at Queen’s continues to rise each year, and the general standard of play is also steadily going up. In 2015, Schools Doubles events, Senior and Under 16, were added to the calendar. The RPA, as organizers of the National Schools Championships, named the Senior Schools Doubles trophy as the Robin Geffen Cup, and the Under 16 trophy as the Alex Brodie Cup, in appreciative recognition of the major roles Robin and Alex had played in the development of Ladies Rackets. The Professionals at the co-educational schools with Rackets courts have done a brilliant job in promoting, encouraging and expanding girls’ Rackets, and a growing number of girls are choosing, when they leave school, to join Queen’s Club under the excellent Queen’s/ T&RA Subsidised Rackets Scheme, under the skilled and kindly eye of Head of Rackets, Ben Bomford.

and Doubles, World Singles and Doubles, the Oxford and Cambridge Varsity Match, as well as the Queen’s Handicap Weekends, and from 2019 a highly enjoyable mixed doubles tournament at Queen’s that Lea and the T&RA set up, but it would be grand if the successful recent development of the ladies’ game in the UK could be mirrored in North America.

International competitions in America and between UK and USA/Canada must be a goal, and it would also be welcomed if a ladies’ equivalent to the Noel Bruce Cup could be established, to give girls who have left school the opportunity to continue to represent their Alma Mater in an Old Girls’ Doubles Tournament.

As the standard of ladies’ play continues to rise, it can be hoped that many talented players at other court games will be attracted to take up Rackets. A major objective for the T&RA must be to boost the opportunities for girls to continue to play and enjoy Rackets once they leave school – as, of course, it remains a major T&RA objective to do the same for the boys!

And where to now for Ladies Rackets?

Hopefully growing numbers entering the already established tournaments once they leave school. There are the Open Singles

Howard Angus June 2020 95

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Matchplay August 2019 - March 2020

Amateur Singles Championships 2019

Christian Portz beat Alex Titchener-Barrett to become the Amateur Champion A gruelling schedule finally took its toll as both finalists had won through tough semifinals the previous day. Alex Titchener-Barrett had fought off a sterling challenge from Mike Bailey, who had twice levelled the game score to ultimately win in the fifth. Christian Portz had then managed to recover from two games down against a resurgent Mark Farmiloe; another five-game thriller.

Both Bailey and Farmiloe had showed true class throughout the tournament, both winning tricky quarter-finals against Jamie Giddins and Nick James respectively.

The final started promisingly, with Titchener-Barrett in sight of a remarkable ninth Amateur Singles title, which he has made his own from 2008 to 2016, prior to the meteoric rise of new World Champion, Tom Billings. But Portz, in his first Amateur Singles Final, had other ideas. At 13-all, the first game hung in the balance, but it was Portz who closed out the set to three, winning 16/13. Titchener-Barrett tried his best in the second game, but his one time Doubles partner had all the answers and returned everything with interest. Perhaps the long matches the previous day played their part, but Titchener-Barrett just couldn't find the answers as Portz chalked up the second and then the third (and final) game in short order.

Peter Mallinson presented Christian Portz with the famous Amateur Championship bowl, first contended in 1888; Christian joins a long list of Champions.

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Invitation Singles 2019 Ben Cawston beat Alex Titchener-Barrett in the final to become the Invitation Singles Champion Two very different semi-finals. Ben Cawston beat Alex Duncliffe-Vines in three games using his speed and athleticism to overcome a dangerous opponent. Duncliffe-Vines didn’t have the usual penetration on his service but did reach game point in the third, before Cawston slowly recovered the three point deficit. Duncliffe-Vines called no set, Cawston capitalised and reached his first Invitation Final. Alex Titchener-Barrett recovered from two games down against one-time partner Christian Portz. Portz started well winning the first and then a tense second 18/16. The third game was pivotal but it was Titchener-Barrett who closed it out 15/12, and then the fourth and fifth in short order as the momentum switched.

before Cawston put together a seven point run to lead 11-1. Titchener-Barrett struck back to reduce the deficit 4-11, and then 9-11 with an audacious trick shot. But again Cawston forced his way back into the box, serving to perfect length to lead 14-9. Two game points came and went before Cawston finally closed out the game.

The second game started promisingly for both players and, after a hand apiece, TitchenerBarrett led 3-2. But Cawston then played a fabulous series of points, including perfectly deployed serves and running down everything, forcing Titchener-Barrett to play tighter and tighter to the tin. Against such margins, the game belonged to Cawston, scoring 13 points in one hand, winning 15/3 and establishing a two game lead.

It was now or never for Titchener-Barrett who quickly found himself three points behind. He rallied to lead 4-3 but would not lead again as Cawston scored seven points on his next hand, leading 10-4. Titchener-Barrett covered every corner, but Cawston anticipated everything, The first Qualifying Tournament of the new leading 13-6 and then inching towards this cycle saw the youthful Cawston take on prestigious title. At 14-6, Cawston just missed seasoned campaigner Titchener-Barrett. a deft drop shot but made no mistake at the Cawston won the spin and deservedly reeled second time of asking. off four points. Titchener-Barrett won back the serve with a spectacular cross-court winner. Charles Hue Williams was on hand to present Titchener-Barrett could only muster a point the Invitation Singles trophy to a new and worthy champion, Ben Cawston, who now moves up to a highest ever world ranking of 3. Many thanks to tournament organiser, Richard Owen. The latest Grays racquets were presented to both players.

Ben Cawston in action

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Matchplay August 2019 - March 2020

National Schools Singles Championships 2019 Sponsored by Brown Advisory

Foster Cup Renny Cup Incledon-Webber Cup Jim Dear Cup FINALS Jim Dear Cup J. Rossiter (SPS) beat A. MacPherson (Ton) 15/10 15/6 Incledon Webber Final O. Hatfield (SPS) beat W. Pike (Ton) 3/15 17/14 15/5 15/12 Renny Cup A. Renwick (SJM) beat M. Sutton (Che) 15/13 15/3 16/13 Foster Cup F. Bristowe (Wel) beat P. Smart (Etn) 15/7 15/1 15/5

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National Schoolgirls' Doubles Championships 2019 Sponsored by Brown Advisory A clean sweep for Wellington with Cheltenham in close contention.

Results Senior Girls Wellington beat Cheltenham 15/4 15/12 15/2 Congratulations Lauren Gooding & Issie Thorneycroft Results Junior Girls Wellington 1 beat Cheltenham 1 15/7 15/10 16/17 8/15 15/11 Congratulations Cesca Sweet & Sophia Grillo

Lauren, Howard Angus & Issie

Under 21s & Under 24s Championship 2019 Success for Ben Cawston as Under 21 Singles Champion and Doubles Champion with George Harvey.

Rory Giddins won the Under 24 Singles for the third time, while Ben Cawston and Ed Hyde won the Under 24 Doubles

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Matchplay August 2019 - March 2020

Brown Advisory British Open Singles Championship 2020 Quarter-finals. Very straightforward win for Ben Cawston who played well and got back so many incredible retrievals, largely keeping Ben Bomford out of the game! Likewise James Coyne dominated the service box against Jamie Giddins, who found himself chasing the game.

Top seed Tom Billings came through against Mike Bailey in four games.

Generally Billings was in control, although a purple patch in the third game saw Bailey at his best.

However it was Billings who restored the world order in the fourth.

Duncliffe-Vines began well to win the first game, but gave up too early when behind in the second. TitchenerBarrett was the steadier in game three, and went to 6-0 in the first hand of the fourth. It took Duncliffe-Vines ten hands to fight his way back into contention and at 12-8 looked as if he would take the match to a decider.

Titchener-Barrett then managed to get to 1112 before DuncliffeVines got back in, but Duncliffe-Vines only got one point in his next hand. At 11-13 Titchener-Barrett is hard to contain, and when Duncliffe-Vines had to choose a set at 13 all he decided to go for no set, and Titchener-Barrett won the two points he needed to go into the semi-final.

Semi finals: Two straightforward matches for the top seeds who eased through their respective matches without dropping any games. James Coyne pushed young Ben Cawston, but never gained the upper hand long enough to make any impact. Similarly, two close games with Tom Billings on top but then Billings cruised home against ATB in the third and fourth.

Semi-finals B. Cawston bt J. Coyne 15/7 15/9 15/5 15/8 T. Billings bt A. Titchener-Barrett 15/11 15/9 15/3 15/2

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Final: In a repeat of last year's final, World Champion Tom Billings took on Invitation Singles Champion Ben Cawston in front of a packed gallery. It was Cawston who made the early running establishing a 9-0 lead in the first game, stunning the supporters of both players. Billings could only manage a point and Cawston pushed ahead to 10-1. Both players scurried around the court retrieving, making for numerous lengthy points, but the score remained in Cawston's favour 102. But now Billings steeled himself and carved out six straight points to reduce the deficit, and then six more on the next hand - quite a come back. Cawston managed a point but the momentum was with the top seed and Billings won the critical point to complete the turn around, leaving a devastated Cawston to rue his opportunity.

First game 15/11. Billings pushed home his advantage and quickly built up a lead in the second game; five points from his first hand. Cawston edged back two points, but Billings responded with three more to take a commanding 8-2 lead. Billings's dominance continued and he served out the remaining seven points to take a somewhat swift game, 15/2, in just three hands. The tide had certainly turned.

The third game started and Ben Cawston and Tom Billings Cawston dug deep. Points were hard to win yet Billings was just ahead 2-1, after three hands apiece. Now Billings found another gear and started to creep away, 5-2 became 8-2, as Billings slowly built up the score, eventually reaching 10-3.

Both players were playing well and making some stunning shots, but it was generally the World Champion with the advantage and so it transpired as he eventually reeled off the five points in one hand to win the third 15/3. Cawston was stunned but generously applauded his opponent on several occasions. An equally tight fourth game saw points difficult to finish off, with a slender Billings 2-0 lead after three hands apiece. Cawston needed something and suddenly found his length, recovering to 6-3. Now the points started flowing 8-6 Billings, then 10-8 Cawston - there was hope! Billings fought hard to 10-11, but then Cawston served out to win the vital game 15/11. The gallery were witnessing a true spectacle.

The pair traded five points apiece, but now Billings started to slowly build up a slender lead 8-7, then 11-10.

The atmosphere was electric but Billings further extended his lead to 13-10, then 14-10 - Championship Point. Two great players, but only one winner, as Billings successfully defended his title to become Brown Advisory British Open Champion for the fourth year in succession, winning the fifth and final game 15/10.

Peter Mallinson presented the famous trophy to Billings, along with a magnum of Pol Roger. Many thanks to all concerned, from organiser Will Morse and match officials Ben Bomford and Patrick Maxwell. The David Norman Galleries had witnessed yet another wonderful display of Rackets Final T. Billings bt B. Cawston 15/11 15/2 15/3 10/15 15/10

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Matchplay August 2019 - March 2020

Brown Advisory Ladies British Open Singles Championships 2020

Ladies Rackets continues to go from strength to strength, with two new contenders in the final. Tara Lumley, fresh from her successful exploits down under, took on the current Senior Schoolgirls champion India Deakin. The match was close throughout with both ladies showing a good array of shots. Tara was always just ahead in the opening game, leading 6-3 and then 12-9. The advantage was enough as she came through 15/10. An equally tight second game saw both ladies trading points, although this time it was India building a steady 11-3 lead, before Tara came charging back to 10-11.

But now India knew she needed to capitalise and kept playing her game, returning service well and took the second 15/12, to level the Tara Lumley beat India Deakin 15/10 12/15 match.

15/5 3/15 15/12 The third and fourth games flew by, with first Tara and then India dominating in patches; third game to Tara 15/5, fourth to India 15/3, including a remarkable twelve point run from 3-all. Both ladies had their moments and took their chances, with numerous first class winners. India now made the running in the deciding game, taking a commanding 8-4 lead and then building to 11-4. But now it was Tara's moment, winning 10 points on service to reach match points. India saved two Championships points, briefly reaching 12-14 but the title was Tara's at the third time of asking.

Peter Mallinson, representing sponsors Brown Advisory, presented the Championship Salver to Tara in its tenth year. Two strong competitors who played the match in the highest of spirits, entertaining the David Norman Gallery for a thrilling 90-minute spectacle.

Tara and India 102

Rackets

Cambridge win 5-1

Varsity Rackets 2020

Results: 1st Singles - T Morales (Cambridge) bt R Giddins 15/5 11/15 3/15 15/12 15/8 2nd Singles - E Hyde (Cambridge) bt E Kandel 18/14 15/3 15/9 3rd Singles - I MacDonald (Cambridge) bt L Pittman 15/8 15/5 15/3 4th Singles - E Springett (Oxford) bt A Moen 15/7 15/3 15/4 1st Doubles - T Morales & E Hyde (Cambridge) bt R Giddins & E Kandel 15/2 12/15 15/6 15/12 2nd Doubles - I MacDonald & A Moen (Cambridge) bt L Pittman & E Springett 15/4 15/3 17/15

Oxford Team

Professional Singles 2020 Semi Finals B Cawston (Wel) bt R. Tulley (Wel) 15/7 15/5 15/9 B. Bomford (QC) bt G. Tyndall (Hby) 15/3 15/1 15/0 Final B Cawston (Wel) bt B. Bomford (QC) 15/1 15/5 15/2

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Matchplay August 2019 - March 2020

British Amateur Doubles Rackets Championship 2020 Tom Billings & Richard Owen beat James Coyne & Mark Farmiloe Sponsored by the Jesters

Rackets

Ladies World Doubles 2020 The top six ladies pairs assembled at Wellington to contest the first ever World Doubles Championship. Support was provided by Grays, PlayBrave, Pol Roger and the T&RA, and the entire event was masterminded by Wellington Professional, Ryan Tulley, supported by Mark Briers (Cheltenham) on the day.

Group A was dominated by World Singles Champion, Lea Van der Zwalmen, and her young partner, Luisa Gengler-Saint, winning both their group matches in straight games. Cheltenham pair, Abby Whybrow and Molly Clarke, put up some stiff resistance but eventually came second in the group.

Group B was hard fought but Open Champion, Tara Lumley, and her partner India Deakin came through both their matches, with Wellington Pair, and 2018 Open Doubles Champions, Lauren Gooding and Issie Thorneycroft winning through as runners-up.

Chris Davies presents the World Doubles trophy to India and Tara

After a break for a Wellington lunch, Fionnuala Dowling-Membrado and Cesca Sweet won their fifth place playoff, beating a spirited Minty Knowles and Georgie Gunn. In their best of five third place playoff, Abby Whybrow and Molly Clarke started strongly taking the first game, but slowly Lauren Gooding and Issie Thorneycroft grew into the match, reversed the tide to win in four games.

The World Championship match didn't disappoint and there were numerous rallies which kept the gallery's close attention. The tightest of opening games saw Tara Lumley and India Deakin call a set to five at 13-all, and then sneak across the line 18/17. An equally tight second game saw them surge ahead towards its conclusion, to win 15/11 and take a two-game lead. Lea Van der Zwalmen and Luisa Gengler-Saint now worked hard to switch the momentum and both played their part to take a comfortable third game 15/6, and give them a chance. Indeed, they called a set to five in the fourth but were unable to capitalise and saw their opponents win through to take the all-important fourth (and final) game 18/13.

For those watching the development of the Ladies game over the last ten years, this match showcased the progress. Crisp rallies, great returning and top-class shotmaking. T&RA Chief Executive, Chris Davies, praised the competitors and handed out the superb Grays Trophy and Pol Roger champagne. Grays also provided their latest racquets as prizes for the world champion, which were very well received.

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RESULTS

................................RACKETS MATCHPLAY

Noel Bruce 2019 The Queen’s Club, 4th – 19th September QUALIFYING Group A Rugby II bt Tonbridge VI 15/8 18/13 Cheltenham X bt Tonbridge VI 18/13 15/5 Eton III bt Rugby II 15/8 15/10 Cheltenham X bt Rugby II 15/11 15/10 Eton III bt Tonbridge VI 15/8 15/5 Eton III bt Cheltenham X 15/5 15/7 Group B Tonbridge I bt Cheltenham IV 15/12 15/7 Rugby I bt Cheltenham IV 4/15 16/14 15/4 Tonbridge I bt Rugby I 17/15 15/2 Group C Westgate bt Haileybury II 15/7 15/10 Westgate bt Rugby III 15/6 15/7 Haileybury II bt Rugby III 15/5 16/14 Group D Tonbridge II bt Clifton II 15/11 8/15 15/6 Radley II bt Rugby V 15/5 15/5 Tonbridge II bt Rugby V 15/3 15/2 Radley II bt Clifton II 15/6 15/9 Radley II bt Tonbridge II 15/0 15/8 Clifton II bt Rugby V 15/3 15/4 Group E Radley I bt Tonbridge VII 15/0 15/7 Tonbridge VII bt Cheltenham IX 11/15 15/2 15/7 Radley I bt Eton V 15/4 15/9 Tonbridge VII bt Eton V 15/9 11/15 15/9 Radley I bt Cheltenham IX 15/4 15/5 Eton V bt Cheltenham IX 15/11 15/1 Group F Haileybury I bt Malvern II 15/12 8/15 15/10 Tonbridge III bt Winchester IV 15/5 15/6 Haileybury I bt Tonbridge III 15/5 15/6 Haileybury I bt Winchester IV 15/6 15/10 Malvern II bt Winchester IV 15/5 15/7 Malvern II bt Tonbridge III 15/2 15/4 Group G Cheltenham VI bt Winchester II 15/2 15/5 Cheltenham VI bt Wellington III 15/4 15/5 Wellington II bt Winchester II 15/0 15/8 Cheltenham VI bt Wellington II 15/4 15/9 Wellington III bt Winchester II 15/10 4/15 15/10 Wellington III dw Wellington II 15/9 9/15 Group H Tonbridge IV bt Cheltenham VII 17/14 15/8 Cheltenham VII bt Radley III 15/7 15/9 Harrow II bt Tonbridge IV 15/11 15/8 Harrow II bt Radley III 15/8 15/10 Tonbridge IV bt Radley III 17/14 15/4 Harrow II bt Cheltenham VII 15/12 15/12 Play-off Cheltenham VI bt Harrow II 15/10 15/9 Group I Cheltenham II bt Winchester III 15/6 15/8 Cheltenham II bt Clifton IV 15/8 15/6 Cheltenham II bt Charterhouse 15/10 15/11 Charterhouse bt Clifton IV 15/10 2/15 15/1 Charterhouse bt Winchester III 15/2 15/3 Clifton IV bt Winchester III 15/1 15/2 Group J Cheltenham V bt Rugby IV 11/15 15/7 15/1 Cheltenham V bt Clifton III 11/15 15/7 15/12 Harrow I dw Rugby IV 15/6 6/15 injury Clifton III bt Harrow I 15/6 15/2 Cheltenham V bt Harrow I 17/14 15/7 Clifton III bt Rugby IV w/o Group K Eton IV bt Cheltenham VIII 15/3 15/1

106

Cheltenham XI bt Haileybury IV 15/9 15/5 Eton IV bt Haileybury IV 15/1 15/0 Cheltenham VIII bt Cheltenham XI 15/9 15/5 Eton IV bt Cheltenham XI 15/3 15/3 Cheltenham VIII bt Haileybury IV 15/4 15/4 Play-off Eton IV bt Cheltenham V 15/7 15/8 Group L Clifton I bt St Pauls 15/7 15/8 Clifton I bt Cheltenham III 15/8 7/15 15/10 Clifton I bt Haileybury III 15/9 15/6 Cheltenham III bt Haileybury III 15/12 15/1 Haileybury III bt St Pauls 15/4 9/15 15/10 Cheltenham III bt St Pauls 15/7 15/10 MAIN DRAW Round of 16 Eton II (6) bt Eton III 3/15 15/11 15/0 15/7 Eton I (4) bt Clifton I 15/5 15/9 15/2 Eton IV bt Radley II 12/15 15/5 10/15 15/4 15/8 Wellington I (3) bt Westgate 15/11 15/11 15/6 Tonbridge I bt Cheltenham VI 15/12 15/7 15/6 Malvern I (5) bt Haileybury I 15/10 15/1 15/6 Cheltenham I (2) bt Cheltenham II 17/14 15/0 15/3 Winchester (I) bt Radley 15/1 15/4 15/12

Final M Bailey & P Sutton bt B Cawston & T Probert 12/15 15/12 15/11 Manchester Gold Racquet Manchester, 25th – 27th October Singles First Round Portz bt Tancer 15/2 15/11 Shenkman bt Roumani 15/3 15/9 Cipriano bt Cook 15/5 15/2 Taylor bt Mitchell 15/6 15/10 Long bt Symonds 15/11 14/17 16/15 Quarter-finals ADV bt Cipriano 15/10 15/9 Portz bt Taylor 15/7 15/6 Shenkman bt Coyne 18/15 15/12 Cawston bt Long 15/1 15/3 Semi-finals ADV bt Shenkman 15/4 15/9 15/6 Cawston bt Portz 12/15 4/15 18/14 15/7 15/3 Final ADV bt Cawston 15/8 15/1 15/2

Quarter-finals Eton I bt Eton IV 15/9 15/10 15/4 Cheltenham I bt Malvern I (5) 15/6 15/13 10/15 15/4 Winchester I bt Eton II (6) 15/8 15/6 15/7 Wellington I bt Tonbridge I w/o

Doubles Quarter-finals ADV & Cawston bt Roumani & Tancer 15/4 15/10 Portz & Cipriano bt Shenkman & Long 15/0 15/9 Bomford & Coyne bt Mitchell & Cook 15/7 15/6 James & Bailey bt Symonds & Taylor 15/4 15/3

Semi-Finals Winchester I bt Eton I 13/16 15/12 15/8 15/10 15/6 Cheltenham I bt Wellington I 15/4 15/11 15/0 15/12

Semi-finals ADV & Cawston bt Bomford & Coyne 15/7 15/4 0/15 15/5 James & Bailey bt Cipriano & Portz 15/7 15/2 15/1

Final Winchester I beat Cheltenham I 15/10 15/0 4/15 15/1 15/1 The Clifton Cup 2019 Clifton, 18th – 20th October First Round L Winstanley & H Corcoran bt L Symonds & C Vleck 15/8 15/6 J Blackburn & T Shields bt School Pair 15/12 15/4 W Evans & J Jamieson-Black bt R Williams & W Kenyon 15/9 15/1 J Telling & D Pennick bt S Beale & T Armstrong 15/4 17/14 D Kent & V Scott-Geddes bt E Beard & N Colbourne 15/8 15/11 Quarter Finals M Bailey & P Sutton bt L Winstanley & H Corcoran 15/2 15/2 T Bomford & T Panto bt J Blackburn & T Shields 6/15 15/9 15/9 W Evans & J Jamieson-Black bt R Williams & W Kenyon 15/0 15/7 B Cawston & T Probert bt D Kent & V Scott-Geddes 15/6 15/5 Semi Finals M Bailey & P Sutton bt T Bomford & T Panto 15/9 10/15 15/0 B Cawston & T Probert bt W Evans & J Jamieson-Black 15/14 9/15 15/8

Final James & Bailey bt ADV & Cawston 15/10 15/3 9/15 9/15 15/11 Invitation Singles Qualifying The Queen’s Club, 1st – 3rd November Group A T. Panto bt F. Roumani 10/15 18/13 15/12 M. Farmiloe bt H. Adams 15/8 15/3 F. Roumani bt G. Loup 7/15 15/13 15/4 G. Loup bt T. Panto 15/13 4/15 18/16 G. Loup vs H. Adams 15/6 15/1 M. Farmiloe bt T. Panto w/o F. Roumani bt H. Adams 15/8 15/3 H. Adams bt T. Panto w/o M. Farmiloe vs F. Roumani 15/8 15/6 M. Farmiloe bt G. Loup 15/10 15/4 Group B B. Stevens vs P. Maxwell 15/10 15/11 P. Maxwell bt D. Kent 15/6 15/5 B. Stevens vs G. Harvey 15/3 15/2 P. Maxwell vs G. Harvey 15/2 15/7 B. Stevens bt D. Kent 15/1 15/4 D. Kent bt G. Harvey 15/6 15/0 Semi-finals M. Farmiloe bt P. Maxwell 17/14 15/7 B. Stevens bt F. Roumani 15/6 15/10 Final M. Farmiloe bt B. Stevens 15/9 13/16 17/15

RACKETS MATCHPLAY................................

Third/Fourth playoff F. Roumani bt P. Maxwell 16/17 15/10 17/16 Mark Farmiloe and Fahad Roumani qualify for the Invitation Singles Brown Advisory Ladies British Open Doubles Malvern, 10th November Semi Finals G. Willis & T. Lumley beat A. Whybrow & F. Dowling-Membrado 15/11 15/3 L. Gooding & I. Thorneycroft beat M. Knowles & G. Gunn 15/3 15/7 Final G. Willis & T. Lumley beat L. Gooding & I. Thorneycroft 17/15 13/18 15/6 12/15 17/14 Norman Rosser Plate Final F. Fletcher & H. Wood beat T. Wood & A Vyvyan-Robinson 15/0 15/11 World Rackets Championship 2019 The Queen’s Club,16th November; Detroit, 23rd November First leg (Queen’s Club) Tom Billings beat Alex Duncliffe-Vines 18/14 15/11 15/3 15/1 Second leg (Detroit) Tom Billings beat Alex Duncliffe-Vines 15/10 15/10 15/14 15/2 Amateur Singles 2019 The Queen’s Club,16th – 24th November First Round R. Spender bt A. Rozier 15/5 15/11 15/4 N. Navapurkar bt G. Maltby 17/18 7/15 15/11 17/16 15/10 T. Panto bt G. Loup 13/15 11/15 16/13 15/8 15/12 F. Roumani bt P. Maxwell 9/15 0/15 15/6 15/7 15/9 L. Symonds bt J. Marshall 15/9 15/8 15/6 T. Stevens (7) bt G. Harvey 15/5 15/3 15/5 L. Winstanley bt T. McCall 15/9 15/4 15/5 T. Bomford (6) bt J. Jamieson-Black w/o A. Gourlay (8) bt M. Seeley 12/15 15/10 15/3 15/10 M. Farmiloe bt J. Rendell 15/0 15/0 15/5 Round of 16 C. Portz (1) bt R. Spender 1/15 15/10 15/8 15/2 A. Titchener-Barrett (2) bt N. Navapurkar 15/8 15/5 15/6 M. Bailey (5) bt L. Winstanley 15/11 15/0 15/3 A. Gourlay (8) bt A. Giddins 15/7 17/15 15/3 M. Farmiloe bt T. Bomford (6) 15/11 14/17 15/6 2/15 15/5 J. Giddins (4) bt F. Roumani 15/2 15/11 15/4 T. Stevens (7) bt T. Panto 15/9 15/8 15/11 N. James (3) bt L. Symonds 15/1 15/5 15/1 Quarter-finals A. Titchener-Barrett bt T. Stevens 15/6 8/15 18/14 15/13 M. Bailey bt J. Giddins 15/11 15/8 15/9 C. Portz bt A. Gourlay 15/3 15/12 15/4 M. Farmiloe bt N. James 15/6 17/15 8/15 15/10 Semi-finals A. Titchener-Barrett bt M. Bailey 17/14 12/15 17/15 18/14 15/7 C. Portz bt M. Farmiloe 3/15 14/17 15/12 15/7 15/8 Final C. Portz bt A. Titchener-Barrett 16/13 15/3 15/2

Invitation Singles 2019 The Queen’s Club, 30th November – 8th December Group A C. Portz bt N. James 15/8 15/12 15/3 B. Cawston bt F. Roumani 15/7 15/3 15/4 B. Cawston bt N. James 15/4 15/9 15/3 B. Cawston bt C. Portz 15/1 15/10 17/16 N. James bt F. Roumani 13/15 15/10 15/12 6/15 15/2 C. Portz bt F. Roumani 15/8 15/2 15/4 Group B A. Duncliffe-Vines bt M. Farmiloe 15/1 15/14 13/15 15/0 A. Titchener-Barrett bt J. Coyne 15/1 15/4 15/2 A. Titchener-Barrett bt A. Duncliffe-Vines 15/19 15/10 15/9 J. Coyne bt M. Farmiloe 15/16 4/15 15/7 15/7 15/4 A. Titchener-Barrett bt M. Farmiloe 13/15 15/4 15/6 15/4 A. Duncliffe-Vines bt J. Coyne 15/12 15/2 15/7 Semi-finals B. Cawston bt A. Duncliffe-Vines 15/7 15/8 15/14 A. Titchener-Barrett bt C. Portz 6/15 16/18 15/12 15/4 15/2 Final B. Cawston bt A. Titchener-Barrett 15/9 15/3 15/6 National Schools Singles 2019 The Queen’s Club, 7th – 14th December Jim Dear First Round B. Tomlinson (Wel) bt R. Acheson-Gray (Rad) 15/6 15/10 J. Beagles (Etn) bt C. Hope (Har) 15/8 15/4 N. Alizadeh (SPS) bt A. Baker (Che) 15/3 17/14 W. Thomas (SPS) bt J. Cox (Mlv) 15/5 15/12 M. Ecclestone (Hby) bt D. Wauchope (Har) 15/8 15/0 H. Nicholls (Win) bt L. Massi (SPS) 15/11 12/15 15/9 B. Vallat (Win) bt V. Patel (Har) 15/2 15/1 G. Speake (SPS) bt O. Coulcher-Porter (Win) 15/3 15/0 Jain (Hby) bt A. Garson (Rad) 15/4 15/11 M. Allen (Clt) bt B. Foster (Wgt) G. Stevens (Wel) bt H. Lavelle (Cha) 15/0 15/1 W. Windows (Clt) bt J. Williams (Har) 15/1 15/1 Sneddon (Ton) bt E. Saba (Wel) 15/4 15/0 K. Patel (SPS) bt G. Black (Har) H. Acheson-Gray (Rad) bt C. Batten (Win) 15/8 4/15 15/10 H. Baker (Cha) v R. Docherty (Ton) 15/8 15/10 W. Murphy (Clt) bt A. Rajkumar (SPS) 15/13 17/15 T. Kinmont (Cha) bt E. Carter (Che) 2/15 17/14 15/12 P. Compton-Burnett (Etn) bt F. Jennings (Hby) 15/12 15/1 Second Round R. Quinton (Cha) bt M. Fulford (Har) 15/9 18/15 W. Walker (Etn) bt V. Bhamre (SPS) w/o Thomas bt Alizadeh 18/13 15/13 Tomlinson bt G. Stanhope (Har) 8/15 15/2 15/1 H. Lefranc (SPS) bt Ecclestone 15/6 15/9 T. Sotir (Har) v C. Brook (Mar) G. Kent (Wel) bt M. Woodford (Mar) 15/7 13/18 15/10

RESULTS

Fontana (Har) bt F. Sanders (Che) 15/4 15/8 J. Rossiter (SPS) v G. Reynolds (Rad) 15/1 15/0 Gupte (Har) bt J. Naughton (Clt) 15/11 15/0 T. Rynn (Hby) bt S. Maynard (Rad) 15/1 15/0 Nicholls bt Patel 15/4 15/4 Stevens bt Windows 15/11 15/6 R. Slatter (Che) bt S. Robertson (Win) 15/7 15/0 Jain bt Allen 15/9 15/6 H.Acheson-Gray bt W. Walker (Rad) 15/10 15/1 Baker bt C. Davies (Clt) 15/0 15/0 Sneddon bt G. Gardiner (Win) 15/4 14/15 15/10 T. Kinmont bt W. Murphy 12/15 15/8 15/7 M. Kwintner (Che) bt O. Baily (Lat) 15/1 15/5 Speake bt C. Raeside (Cha) 15/9 15/0 E. Khaira (Che) bt A. Harker (Win) 15/2 15/0 W. La Fontaine (Win) bt S. Hebblethwaite (Mar) 15/1 15/3 M. Donald (Rad) bt O. Smith (Cha) 15/2 15/0 T. Boorman (Mlv) bt O. Briggs (Rug) 15/0 15/0 Macpherson (Ton) bt J. Burnell (Mar) 15/2 15/7 O. Sykes (Ton) bt J. Coley (Che) 15/0 15/12 S. Koupparis (Clt) bt F. Moore (Che) 15/10 15/4 H. Scholefield (Cha) bt N. Reynolds (Win) 15/5 17/14 Vallat bt Compton-Burnett 15/1 15/8 G. Lythgoe (Etn) bt J. Richardson (Che) 15/9 15/3 Third Round Walker bt Quinton 15/0 15/0 Rossiter bt Fontana 15/1 15/4 Rynn bt Tomlinson 16/15 15/10 Sotir v Kent 15/4 15/11 Lefranc bt Kinmont 15/0 15/2 Kwintner bt Slatter 15/5 15/0 La Fontaine bt Khaira 15/7 15/5 H. Acheson-Gray bt Beagles 15/8 15/8 Baker bt Jain 15/1 15/10 Thomas bt Sneddon 15/4 15/6 Scholefield bt Donald 15/11 15/10 Gupte bt Stevens 15/7 7/15 15/9 Boorman bt Nicholls 6/15 16/14 15/10 Macpherson bt Sykes 15/7 15/8 Lythgoe bt Koupparis 6/15 15/8 15/3 Vallat bt Speake 15/5 15/7 Fourth Round Rossiter bt Acheson-Gray 15/5 15/5 La Fontaine bt Lefranc 15/10 15/10 T. Sotir (Har) bt T. Boorman (Mlv) 15/5 6/15 16/13 B.Vallat (Win) bt G.Lythgoe (Etn) 15/11 15/2 R. Slatter (Che) bt T. Rynn (Hby) 15/13 15/2 MacPherson (Ton) bt H. Baker (Cha) 15/8 15/9 W. Walker (Etn) bt A. Gupte (Har) 15/6 15/2 W. Thomas (SPS) bt H. Scholefield (Cha) 15/4 15/3 Quarter-finals Rossiter bt La Fontaine 15/11 15/7 Sotir bt Vallat 15/11 11/15 15/7 MacPherson bt Walker 15/7 15/12 Thomas bt Slatter 7/15 15/7 15/3 Semi-finals Rossiter bt Sortir 15/5 15/1 MacPherson bt Thomas 15/9 15/4 Final Rossiter bt MacPherson 15/10 15/6

107

RESULTS

................................RACKETS MATCHPLAY

Incledon-Webber First Round Sillars (Win) bt M. Krefting (Etn) 15/5 15/1 H. Brown (Etn) bt A. King (Win) 18/16 15/8 R. Sarin (SPS) bt J. Duncan (Rad) 15/4 15/7 Ponsonby (Ton) bt O. Mordaunt (Rad) 15/3 15/3 M. Holland (Mlv) bt C. Bridges (Cha) 15/4 15/1 O. Reynolds (Win) bt J. Pease (Etn) 15/4 15/4 Dymond (Ton) bt F. James (Etn) 15/7 11/15 15/11 O. Hatfield (SPS) bt H. Buxton (Etn) 15/4 15/1 J. Jones (Ton) bt S. Martin-Jenkins (Mar) 15/6 13/16 15/4 O. Cox (Mlv) bt B. Thomson (Wel) 15/0 15/1 J. Davies (Clt) bt N. Harris (Wel) 15/0 16/13 G. Livesey (SPS) bt O. Wong (Clt) w/o Sitwell (Rug) bt T. Jensen (SPS) 16/13 15/8 F. Kirkland (Ton) bt J. Plummeridge (Clt) 15/0 15/2 Corbett (Mar) bt S. Owston (Har) 15/3 15/7 W. Pike (Ton) bt T. Pascoe (Cha) 15/1 15/2 H. Campbell-Walter (Mar) bt A. Catto (Mlv) 15/4 18/14 Barnes (Wel) bt M. Shirvell (Har) 12/15, 15/13, 15/11 M. Garson (Rad) bt R. Edavaleth (Mlv) 15/6 15/2 M. Pretor-Pinney (Mar) bt C. Morison (Wel) 15/1 15/0 Clement-Davies (Win) bt J. Stephenson (Mlv) 15/10 15/11 J. Turcan (Etn) bt T. Seddon (Rad) 15/3 15/7 Shah (Che) bt L. Doyne (Mar) 15/3 15/7 N. Nassuphis (Ton) bt G. Nutting (Win) 15/1 15/1 O. Gibbon (Win) bt T. Venton (Ton) 15/2 15/4 T. Thame (Rad) bt D. Watson (Wel) 15/11 15/9 P. McCourt (Etn) bt J. Baldwin (Ton) 15/7 15/5 H. Bracken-Smith (Etn) bt T. Nicholson (Che) 18/17 12/15 15/5 S. Baldwin (Ton) bt K. Gupta (SPS) 15/5 15/9 G. Acheson-Gray (Rad) bt S. Hadfield (Ton) 15/2 6/15 15/8 W. Baring (Etn) bt W. Mordaunt (Rad) 15/2 15/2 Second Round Sarin bt Holland 15/10 12/15 15/9 Cox bt Jones 15/1 15/2 Hatfield bt Dymond 15/1 15/2 Livesey bt Davies 15/0 15/0 Kirkland bt Campbell-Walter 15/8 15/3 Ponsonby bt Brown 15/1 15/0 Garson v Barnes 15/5 15/2 Pretor-Pinney bt Clement-Davies 15/0 15/2 Sitwell bt Nassuphis 15/5 15/5 Shah bt Turcan 15/8 15/8 McCourt bt Thame 15/11 15/0 Reynolds bt Gibbon 15/12 10/15 15/3 Pike bt Corbett 15/7 15/8 H. Daly (Etn) bt Sillars w/o Acheson-Gray bt Bracken-Smith 15/3 15/1 Baldwin bt Baring 15/9 15/8 Third Round Daly bt McCourt 15/12 15/3 Kirkland bt Pretor-Pinney 15/8 15/0 Pike bt Reynolds 15/10 15/6 Sitwell bt Shah 15/2 15/10 Hatfield bt Ponsonby 15/4 15/1 Cox bt Acheson-Gray 15/7 15/9 Livesey bt Baldwin 17/15 10/15 15/11 Garson bt Sarin 15/1 15/0

108

Quarter-finals Kirkland bt Daly 16/15 15/8 Pike bt Sitwell 16/15 15/6 Hatfield bt Cox 15/9 15/7 Garson bt Livesey 15/3 15/7 Semi-finals Hatfield bt Garson 15/0 15/7 15/12 Pike bt Kirkland 15/6 15/4 17/14 Final Hatfield bt Pike 3/15 17/14 15/5 15/12 Renny Cup First Round M. Loup (Etn) bt T. Skoulding (SPS) 15/1 15/0 M. Rawlings (Cha) bt A. Beagles (Etn) w/o E. Luke (Etn) bt G. Hall (Rad) 15/2 15/4 T. Capstick-Dale (Etn) bt J. Porter (Mar) 15/5 17/15 H. Hornby (Etn) bt A. Hardwick (Mar) 15/12 15/0 Tomson (Mlv) bt F. Jacobs (Ton) 9/15 15/6 15/8 J. Taylor (Cha) bt F. Eltringham (SPS) 15/11 15/10 D. Stone (Rad) bt A. Birley (Mlv) 15/3 15/1 G. Milton (Che) bt A. Spielmann (SPS) 15/2 15/4 Samuelson (SPS) bt O. Munn (Mar) 15/9 13/16 15/12 O. Light (Mar) bt Z. French (Che) 15/3 15/2 R. Aiyagari (Ton) bt T. Torode (Che) 5/15 15/9 15/12 W. Hechle (Che) bt E. Surguy (Ton) 15/5 15/6 W. Stanton (Che) v B. Spink (Mar) 13/15 15/10 15/4 H. Pennant (Wel) v G. Edwards (Che) 15/6 17/14 N. Tompkins (Rad) bt C. Inglis (Win) w/o Barker (Mar) bt A.Wu (SPS) 15/6 15/10 Renwick (SJM) bt B. Hope (Har) 15/11 15/4 R. Kanwar (Wel) bt L. Dessalles (Mar) 15/7 15/10 F. Middleton (Rug) bt. S-Montefiore (Har) 15/12 15/10 Meacock (Hby) bt O. Robertson (Win) 15/5 15/4 O. Meadows (Clt) bt M. Ainsby 15/1 15/2 M. Sutton (Che) bt J. Timms (Hby) 15/2 15/0 Calow (Ton) bt S. Groom (PS) 15/8 15/6 R. Hardwick (Mlv) bt A. Stannard (Wel) 13/15 15/8 17/15 W. Taylor (Che) bt W. Creswell (Win) 15/9 15/9 Second Round Luke bt Rawlings 15/8 15/4 Jardine-Brown (Rad) bt Tomson 6/15 15/9 10/13 w/o Capstick-Dale bt Hornby 15/7 12/15 17/14 Taylor bt A. Del Mar (Mar) 15/5 15/2 Stone bt Milton 15/4 15/6 Samuelson bt Light 10/15 15/12 15/12 Aiyagari bt Hechle 11/15 15/12 15/12 Tomson bt M. Jardine-Brown (Rad) 15/6 9/15 15/10 Pennant bt Stanton 15/5 15/1 Renwick bt Barker 15/11 15/4 Middleton bt Kanwar 15/8 17/14 Meadows bt Meacock 15/5 15/1 Sutton bt D. Arjun (SPS) 15/2 16/13 Loup bt O. Walker (Ton) 15/9 15/12 Hardwick bt Calow 15/12 17/4 Stephenson bt Taylor 15/2 15/8 D. Conrad (SPS) bt Tompkins 15/5 15/4 Third Round Conrad bt Middleton 15/10 15/10

Meadows bt Luke 17/14 16/13 Taylor bt Pennant 15/12 9/15 17/14 Rennick bt Samuelson 15/6 15/4 Capstick-Dale bt Tomson 15/3 15/4 Hardwick bt Stephenson 15/0 15/11 Stone bt Aiyagari 15/8 15/12 Sutton bt Loup 17/14 15/9 Quarter Finals Conrad bt Meadows 17/15 16/15 Renwick bt Taylor 6/15 15/6 15/11 Hardwick bt Capstick-Dale 3/15 15/8 15/11 Sutton bt Stone 15/3 15/4 Semi-finals Renwick bt Conrad 15/7 11/15 15/0 4/15 15/10 Sutton bt Hardwick 15/0 15/3 16/17 15/0 Final Renwick bt Sutton 15/13 15/3 16/13 Foster Cup First Round B. Robinson (Ton) bt T. Astley (Ton) 15/7 12/15 15/8 B. Smith (Etn) v H. Bevan-Thomas (Ton) 15/2 15/8 15/8 E. Crowston (Rad) bt D. Holland (Mlv) 2/15 15/4 14/17 15/2 15/10 I.Wighton (SPS) bt H. Duncan (Win) 11/15 15/10 15/9 8/15 15/11 F. Bristowe (Wel) bt P. Colbourne (Rug) 15/0 15/1 15/2 G. Genieser (Etn) bt A. Adams (Win) 14/17 15/5 13/16 15/1 15/2 T. Owen-Browne (Ton) bt E. Distelbrink (Wel) 15/3 15/1 15/11 P. Smart (Etn) bt G. Hocking (Mar) 15/7 15/2 15/7 Quarter-finals Bristowe bt Owen-Browne 15/1 15/3 15/3 Genieser bt Wighton 15/9 15/8 15/7 Smart bt Crowston 15/5 15/4 15/6 Robinson bt Smith 15/3 15/14 15/9 Semi-finals Bristowe bt Genie5/8 15/5 15/13 Smart bt Robinson 15/10 8/15 15/10 15/11 Final Bristowe bt Smart 15/7 15/1 15/5 National Schoolgirls’ Doubles Championships The Queen’s Club, 7th – 14th December Alex Brodie Cup - Junior Girls First Round Wellington 1 bt Cheltenham 6 15/0 15/0 Cheltenham 4 bt Haileybury 2 15/3 15/0 Cheltenham 3 bt Haileybury 1 15/11 15/9 Cheltenham 2 bt Wellington 3 15/10 15/7 Clifton 1 bt Wellington 2 15/0 15/12 Cheltenham 1 bt Clifton 3 15/0 15/2 Cheltenham 7 bt Wellington 4 w/o Cheltenham 5 bt Clifton 2 15/4 15/2 Quarter-finals Cheltenham 1 bt Cheltenham 7 15/3 15/4 Cheltenham 5 bt Cheltenham 2 15/6 3/15 15/10 Wellington 1 bt Cheltenham 4 15/1 15/1 Clifton 1 bt Cheltenham 3 10/15 15/7 15/9

RACKETS MATCHPLAY................................

Semi-finals Cheltenham 1 bt Cheltenham 5 15/11 15/7 Wellington 1 bt Clifton 1 15/3 15/6 Final Wellington 1 bt Cheltenham 1 15/7 15/10 16/17 8/15 15/11 (Cesca Sweet & Sophia Grillo) Robin Geffen Cup - Senior Girls First Round Marlborough v Cheltenham 3 15/3 15/4 Quarter-finals Cheltenham 1 bt Marlborough Cheltenham 2 bt Haileybury 2 2-0 Semi-final Wellington 1 bt Haileybury 1 15/4 15/4 Cheltenham 1 bt Cheltenham 2 15/12 18/13 Final Wellington bt Cheltenham 15/4 15/12 15/2 (Lauren Gooding & Issie Thorneycroft) Under 21 and Under 24 Open Championships The Queen’s Club,14th – 18th December U21 Singles First Round Theo Taylor bt Oscar Butcher 12/15 15/13 15/1 2nd Round Lewis Symonds bt Julian Owston 18/13 15/12 Tom Panto bt Igor Utkin 15/13 15/12 Rhodri Hande bt Jack Mitchell 15/9 15/5 Jono Jamieson-Black (3) bt Henry Adams 15/10 15/9 Ollie Taylor bt Sam Cooke 15/9 15/6 Ed Springett bt Orlando Mallinson 15/0 15/0 Ben Cawston (1) bt Charlie Vleck 15/4 15/3 Rory Giddins (2) bt Theo Taylor 15/4 15/5 Quarter-finals Jono Jamieson-Black (3) bt Ollie Taylor 15/7 15/8 Ed Springett bt Rory Giddins (2) w/o Tom Panto bt Rhodri Hande (4) 15/6 15/10 Ben Cawston bt Lewis Symonds 15/5 15/5 Semi-finals Jono Jamieson-Black bt Ed Springett w/o Ben Cawston bt Tom Panto w/o Final Ben Cawston bt Jono Jamieson-Black (3) 15/7 15/2 15/5 U21 Doubles 1st Round G. Skinner & O. Taylor bt I. Utkin & H. Adams 15/12 3/15 17/14 O. Butcher & O. Baker bt S. Cooke & J. Mitchell 15/9 15/8 Semi-finals G. Harvey & B. Cawston (1) bt G. Skinner & O. Taylor 5/15 15/8 2/15 15/5 15/7 O. Butcher & O. Baker bt C. Vleck & T. Panto (2) w/o Final G. Harvey & B. Cawston bt O. Butcher & O. Baker 15/10 15/13 15/8

U24 Singles 1st Round Tom Adkins bt Charlie Powell 12/15 15/12 15/4 Theo Taylor bt George Key 15/8 15/7 Angus Giddins bt Charlie Colthorpe 15/1 15/5 Ed Rowell bt Jamie Jamieson-Black 15/6 15/11 Lewis Symonds bt Henry Adams 18/13 15/12 2nd Round Rory Giddins (1) bt Tom Adkins 15/0 15/4 Jono Jamieson-Black bt Julius Manton-Jones 15/3 15/10 Theo Taylor bt George Loup 15/12 15/8 Angus Giddins bt Ed Hyde 17/14 8/1 ret.

Tony Morales (3) bt Ed Rowell 15/4 16/14 Tom Panto bt Henry Prenn 16/13 15/3 Charlie Vleck bt George Harvey 15/11 15/3 Tom Shields (2) bt Lewis Symonds 15/4 15/7 Quarter-finals Rory Giddins bt Jono Jamieson-Black 15/5 15/3 Toni Morales bt Tom Panto 15/1 17/14 Angus Giddins bt Theo Taylor 15/5 7/15 15/10 Tom Shields bt Charlie Vleck 15/7 15/8 Semi-finals Toni Morales bt Tom Shields 15/6 15/4 15/11 Rory Giddins bt Angus Giddins 15/2 15/7 15/4 Final Rory Giddins bt Toni Morales 15/9 18/14 15/1 U24 Doubles 1st Round G. Key & Jamie J-B bt C. Colthorpe & C. Powell 15/3 15/12 T. Taylor & O. Butcher bt I. Utkin & J Manton-Jones 15/10 15/11 M. Smith & T. Shields bt A. Dewes & J. Doggart 15/3 15/11 Quarter-finals B. Cawston & E. Hyde bt G. Key & Jamie J-B) 15/1 15/4 T. Taylor & O. Butcher bt H. Prenn & G. Loup (4) 15/10 15/8 E. Rowell & T. Morales (3) bt M. Smith & T. Shields 18/14 15/12 R. Giddins & A. Giddins bt J. Owston & G. Harvey 15/8 15/7 Semi-finals B. Cawston & E. Hyde bt T. Taylor & O. Butcher 15/6 15/10 15/9 E. Rowell & T. Morales bt R. Giddins & A. Giddins (2) 15/9 15/6 15/11 Final B. Cawston & E. Hyde bt E. Rowell & T. Morales 15/9 12/15 15/9 15/5 Brown Advisory British Open Singles Championship The Queen’s Club, 8th – 19th January Qualifying Group A P. Sutton bt N. Navapurkar 18/16 15/8 P. Sutton bt J. Rendell 15/7 15/9 N. Navapurkar bt J. Rendell 15/6 15/0 P. Sutton bt J. Blackburn 15/2 15/6 J. Blackburn bt J. Rendell 15/7 15/10

RESULTS

N. Navapurkar bt J. Blackburn 15/12 15/9 Group B A. Gourlay bt H. Don 15/10 15/6 A. Gourlay bt L. Symonds 15/8 15/1 H. Don bt D. Pennick 15/0 15/3 A. Gourlay bt D. Pennick 15/5 15/7 L. Symonds bt D. Pennick 15/4 15/2 L. Symonds bt H. Don 15/11 17/16 Group C D. Dundas bt N. Mackenzie 15/10 8/15 15/4 R. Tulley bt T. Foster 15/6 15/2 R. Tulley bt D. Dundas 15/4 15/4 R. Tulley bt N. Mackenzie 15/3 15/0 T. Foster bt D. Dundas 15/11 17/16 T. Foster bt N. Mackenzie 15/2 15/2 Group D T. Faber bt T. McCall 15/11 15/9 T. Faber bt A. Pittalis 15/5 15/2 T. McCall bt A. Pittalis 15/11 15/8 L. Winstanley bt T. McCall 15/5 15/11 L. Winstanley bt T. Faber 17/15 15/6 L. Winstanley bt A. Pittalis 15/6 10/15 15/8 Group E G. Sandbach bt J. Britton 15/4 15/5 F. Roumani bt J. Britton 15/1 15/0 H. Foreman bt J. Britton 15/2 15/4 F. Roumani bt H. Foreman 15/9 15/2 F. Roumani bt G. Sandbach 15/2 15/2 H. Foreman bt G. Sandbach 15/8 15/10 Group F A. Giddins bt J. Marshall 15/3 15/2 T. Morales bt A. Giddins 15/1 15/2 T. Morales bt N. Brett 15/3 15/0 T. Morales bt J. Marshall 15/7 15/0 A. Giddins bt N.Brett 15/11 15/9 N. Brett bt J. Marshall 15/3 15/4 Group G D. Wright bt R. Sutton 15/8 15/3 O. Cooke bt D. Wright 4/15 15/8 15/3 O. Cooke bt R. Sutton 15/6 15/2 A. Rozier-Pamplin bt D. Wright 15/8 15/0 A. Rozier-Pamplin bt O. Cooke 15/1 15/2 A. Rozier-Pamplin bt R. Sutton 15/5 15/5 Group H B. Stevens bt H. Britton 15/2 15/5 H. Britton bt G. Harvey 15/3 15/9 M. Seely bt H. Britton 15/11 4/15 17/14 B. Stevens bt M. Seely 15/10 15/0 B. Stevens bt G. Harvey 15/3 15/1 M. Seely bt G. Harvey 15/10 15/4 Final Qualifying Q1 R. Tulley bt A. Gourlay 15/6 4/15 17/16 Q2 T. Morales bt L. Winstanley 15/7 15/4 Q3 A. Rozier-Pamplin bt P. Sutton 15/10 15/11 Q4 B. Stevens bt F. Roumani 16/13 15/4 Main Draw Round of 16 T. Billings (1) bt T. Bomford 15/0 15/1 15/8 J. Giddins bt C. Portz (5) 17/14 15/12 15/13 A. Duncliffe-Vines (3) bt T. Stevens 15/6 15/4 15/4 B. Bomford (8) bt M. Farmiloe 15/2 11/15 15/4 15/12 B. Cawston (2) bt T. Morales 11/15 15/5 15/7 15/5 J. Coyne (4) bt B. Stevens 15/10 4/15 9/15 15/10 15/6 M. Bailey (7) bt A. Rozier-Pamplin 15/4 15/2 15/5 A. Titchener-Barrett (6) bt R. Tulley 15/7 10-9 retired

109

RESULTS

................................RACKETS MATCHPLAY

Quarter-finals J. Coyne bt J. Giddins 15/2 15/2 15/2 T. Billings bt M. Bailey 15/6 15/4 5/15 15/3 B. Cawston bt B. Bomford 15/5 15/6 15/1 A. Titchener-Barrett bt A. Duncliffe-Vines 7/15 15/3 15/9 15/13 Semi-finals B. Cawston bt J. Coyne 15/7 15/9 15/5 15/8 T. Billings bt A. Titchener-Barrett 15/11 15/9 15/3 15/2 Final T. Billings bt B. Cawston 15/11 15/2 15/3 10/15 15/10 Brown Advisory Ladies British Open Singles Championships The Queen’s Club, 12th and 19th January Qualifying H. Cockroft bt T. Jones 15/4 15/7 I. England bt T. Jones 16/18 15/6 15/2 I. England bt E. Davis 15/8 15/9 H. Cockroft bt E. Davis 15/4 15/3 H. Cockroft bt I. England 15/3 15/3 T. Jones bt E. Davis 8/15 15/4 15/3 L. Gengler-Saint bt G. Gunn 15/9 15/11 L. Gengler-Saint bt I. Hunt 15/2 15/2 I. Hunt bt I. Reid 15/3 15/4 G. Gunn bt I. Reid 15/4 15/5 I. Hunt bt G. Gunn 15/3 15/13 L. Gengler-Saint bt I. Reid 15/7 15/0 Group A Winner: Honor Cockroft Group B Winner: Luisa Gengler-Saint Round Robin I. Deakin bt L. Gooding 15/7 15/12 L. Gooding bt H. Cockroft 15/4 15/0 I. Deakin bt H. Cockroft 15/3 15/0 T. Lumley bt I. Thorneycroft 15/0 15/1 T. Lumley bt L. Gengler-Saint 15/0 15/2 I. Thorneycroft bt L. Gengler-Saint 15/0 15/2 Final Tara Lumley beat India Deakin 15/10 12/15 15/5 3/15 15/12 Varsity 2020 The Queen’s Club, 22nd January 1st Singles - T Morales (Cambridge) bt R Giddins 15/5 11/15 3/15 15/12 15/8 2nd Singles - E Hyde (Cambridge) bt E Kandel 18/14 15/3 15/9 3rd Singles - I MacDonald (Cambridge) bt L Pittman 15/8 15/5 15/3 4th Singles - E Springett (Oxford) bt A Moen 15/7 15/3 15/4 1st Doubles - T Morales & E Hyde (Cambridge) bt R Giddins & E Kandel 15/2 12/15 15/6 15/12 2nd Doubles - I MacDonald & A Moen (Cambridge) bt L Pittman & E Springett 15/4 15/3 17/15 Cambridge beat Oxford 5-1 Professional Singles Radley, 24th – 26th January Quarter Finals B Cawston (Ton) bt J Eaton (Har) 15/3 15/14 R. Tulley (Wel) bt N. Brett (Mal) 15/3 15/6

110

G. Tyndall (Hby) bt D. Makey (Ton) 15/8 12/15 15/2 B. Bomford (QC) bt P. Brake (Etn) 15/2 15/9 Semi Finals B Cawston (Ton) bt R. Tulley (Wel) 15/7 15/5 15/9 B. Bomford (QC) bt G. Tyndall (Hby) 15/3 15/1 15/0 Final B Cawston (Ton) bt B. Bomford (QC) 15/1 15/5 15/2 Amateur Doubles Championship The Queen’s Club, 21st – 23rd February Qualifying Group 1 T. Billings & R. Owen bt H. Don & J. Marshall 15/1 15/1 Group 2 F. Clarke & G. Loup bt R. Spender & F. Roumani 15/9 15/6 F. Clarke & G. Loup bt H. Prenn & R. Hannah 15/7 15/9 N. Navapurkar & M. Seely bt H. Prenn & R. Hannah 15/7 15/8 R. Spender and F. Roumani bt H. Prenn & R. Hannah 15/1 15/0 R. Spender and F. Roumani bt N. Navapurkar & M. Seely 15/10 15/3 F. Clarke & G. Loup bt N. Navapurkar & M. Seely 15/12 15/11 Group 3 A. & G. Rozier bt W. Evans & J. JamiesonBlack 12/15 15/2 15/4 W. Evans & J. Jamieson-Black bt G. Sandbach & S. Shenkman 15/10 15/11 L. Symonds & E. Rowell bt W. Evans & J. Jamieson-Black 15/8 15/10 A. & G Rozier bt L. Symonds & E. Rowell 15/11 16/13 G. Sandbach & S. Shenkman bt L. Symonds & E. Rowell 4/15 15/12 15/12 G. Sandbach & S. Shenkman bt A. & G. Rozier 15/9 15/7 Group 4 E. Monbiot & G. Buckley bt A. DuncliffeVines & T. Cockroft 6/15 13/14 retired J. & M. Dymoke bt E. Monbiot & G. Buckley 12/15 15/7 15/5 J. & M. Dymoke bt A. Duncliffe-Vines & T. Cockroft w/o Group 5 J. Coyne & M. Farmiloe bt D. Kent & J. Blackburn 15/4 15/8 J. Coyne & M. Farmiloe bt T. McCall & A. Crawley 15/4 15/12 T. McCall & A. Crawley bt D. Kent & J. Blackburn 8/15 15/11 15/9 Group 6 T. Taylor & I. Utkin bt A. Gourlay & G. Horwood 15/9 16/13 T. Shields & N. Hutton bt A. Gourlay & G. Horwood 13/16 15/2 15/6 T. Shields & N. Hutton bt T. Taylor & I. Utkin 16/13 15/10 T. Shields and N. Hutton bt C. Colthrope & Y. Kahn-Pascual 15/4 15/5 T. Taylor & I. Utkin bt C. Colthorpe and Y. Kahn-Pascual 15/7 15/11

Group 7 T. & B. Stevens bt G. Key & J. Jamieson-Black 15/0 15/2 T. & B. Stevens bt J. Rendell & L. Webb 15/0 15/0 T. & B. Stevens bt C. Simson & B. Cook 15/1 15/1 C. Simson & B. Cook dw G. Key & J. Jamieson-Black J. Rendell & L. Webb bt C. Simson & B. Cook 8/15 15/13 18/13 G. Key & J. Jamieson- Black bt J. Rendell & L. Webb 15/2 15/10 Group 8 C. Mckelvey & G. Giddins bt C. Jenkins and N. Warner 15/0 15/3 N. James & M. Bailey bt C. Jenkins and N. Warner 15/0 15/2 N. James & M. Bailey bt C. McKelvey & G. Giddins 15/5 15/6 Main Draw Quarter-finals T. Billings & R. Owen bt G. Sandbach & S. Shenkman 15/6 17/14 T. & B. Stevens bt J. & M. Dymoke 15/4 15/7 J. Coyne & M. Farmiloe bt T. Shields & N. Hutton 15/8 15/8 N. James & M. Bailey bt F. Clarke & G. Loup 15/1 15/2 Semi-finals T. Billings & R. Owen bt T. & B. Stevens 15/6 15/5 15/11 J. Coyne & M. Farmiloe bt N. James & M. Bailey 15/8 15/10 15/10 Final T. Billings & R. Owen bt J. Coyne & M. Farmiloe 8/15 17/14 15/5 15/5 Ladies World Doubles 2020 Wellington, 7th – 8th March Group Stages Group A A. Whybrow & M. Clarke bt M. Knowles & G. Gunn 15/4 15/2 L. Van der Zwalmen & L. Gengler-Saint bt M. Knowles & G. Gunn 15/1 15/3 L. Van der Zwalmen & L. Gengler-Saint bt A. Whybrow & M. Clarke 15/7 15/5 Group B L. Gooding & I. Thorneycroft bt F. DowlingMembrado & C. Sweet 10/15 15/7 15/12 I. Deakin & T. Lumley bt F. Dowling-Membrado & C. Sweet 15/1 15/7 I. Deakin & T. Lumley bt L. Gooding & I. Thorneycroft 15/0 15/9 Finals 5th/6th position F. Dowling-Membrado & C. Sweet bt M. Knowles & G. Gunn 15/5 15/4 3rd/4th position L. Gooding & I. Thorneycroft bt A. Whybrow & M. Clarke 5/15 15/5 15/5 15/4 World Championship I. Deakin & T. Lumley bt L. Van der Zwalmen & L. Gengler-Saint 18/17 15/11 6/15 18/13

RACKETS MATCHPLAY................................

RESULTS

World Rankings 2020 Men’s Rackets World Rankings Rank

Player

Points

1

Tom Billings

177.63

2

Ben Cawston

167.63

3

James Coyne

54.63

4

Alex Titchener-Barrett

48.44

5

Will Hopton

43.81

6

Christian Portz

42.75

7

Alex Duncliffe-Vines

42.50

8

Richard Owen

32.13

9

Mike Bailey

16.63

10

Ben Bomford

16.38

Ladies’ Rackets World Rankings Rank

Name

Points

1

Lea Van der Zwalmen

80.00

2

India Deakin

65.33

3

Tara Lumley

44.00

4

Lauren Gooding

42.00

5

Issie Thorneycroft

37.00

6

Georgie Willis

24.00

7

Fionnuala Dowling-Membrado

8

Cesca Sweet

9.17

9

Rose Jones

8.00

10=

Luisa Gengler-Saint

7.00

10=

Abby Whybrow

7.00

14.17

111

Rackets

CLUB REPORTS Charterhouse

By Andy Johnson (MIC)

O

nce again, I find that another season of Rackets has drawn to a close at Charterhouse, though I think we would all agree that the abrupt manner with which it ended came as a shock to us all. It was a real shame that the very best of Schoolboy Rackets was denied the chance to showcase their talents in the National Doubles Competition, none more so than the leavers. That said, I think it is indicative to the healthy state of Rackets at Charterhouse that on the last afternoon the School was open all the leavers wanted to do was to have a final hit on the courts. I am delighted to report that they have all said that they will become members at Queen’s and will definitely come back to play.

And so we turn to the final season for these boys. The 1st Pair, in Jonnie Capuano(c) and Alex Topley, led from the front with the quality of their play and regular presence at the courts and though they did not sweep away all the opposition before them, when victory did come with triumphs over both Harrow and Wellington at home it was savoured to the full.

The 2nd pair of James Taylor and Marcus Rawlings also had their moments with victories over Wellington and Winchester at home, with the 3rd pair of Tom Wainwright (in his last season) and Ayush Patel providing much entertainment with the sheer joy and enthusiasm with which they played the game beating Eton away and Wellington at home.

In the colts we have seen the development of a fine pair. Both Toby Pascoe and Charlie Bridges have seen quantum leaps in their performance and thumping victories over Eton(A), Winchester(H) and the double of home and away over Wellington pay testament to their fine play.

In the Junior Colts, though victories were thin on the ground for the A (Harry Baker and Jonty

112

Postlewhite) and B (Harry Lavelle and Tom Kinmont) pairs, their enthusiasm for the sport knows no bounds and I know that their match statistics will improve next season.

Likewise, in the Yearlings we have another crop of highly enthusiastic and talented players in Harry Scholefield, Rupert Quinton, Charlie Raeside and Ollie Smith. The highlight for them being the pairing of Rupert and Charlie winning away at Haileybury and home against Eton.

In the Singles Competition at Queen’s we saw James Taylor have a good run in the Renny getting through the first three rounds, including saving a match point against the 5th seed to win in the last sixteen. The Quarter Final, in which James lost to the eventual winner, was one to savour, with Rackets of the highest quality being appreciated by a full gallery, and when James was serving at 11-11 in the deciding game the outcome was very much in the balance.

In the Jim Dear three players made significant inroads into the competition. Tom Kinmont saved two match points in his opening match before bowing out gracefully in the last sixteen.

Harry Scholefield (playing up a year) caused the upset of the second round beating the seventh seed before, also, ending his campaign in the last sixteen. Who knows what might happen when he plays next year in his correct age group? Harry Baker confidently brushed aside the opposition in the first three rounds before encountering the 3rd seed in the last sixteen.

Here we saw some of the best quality Rackets you could hope for in the Junior Colts, with both players rallying at pace from the T, and though he lost, the applause from the gallery for both players will remain a long time in the memory.

As always the gentle guidance, expert advice and unfailingly hospitable welcome everyone receives down the courts from MJC keeps this highly addictive and entertaining sport flourishing at Charterhouse.

Cheltenham

By Karl Cook

C

heltenham College Rackets in both Autumn and Spring terms was busy and productive. Despite the National Schools Competitions in March being cancelled, both boys and girls enjoyed regular fixtures throughout the Spring Term with a number of pleasing victories. Led admirably by Max Sutton and Abby Whybrow respectively, the club boasted its greatest number of players to date: some 80 players in total – out performing a number of two court schools in the process.

Great to see. A far cry from my first T&RA report…

Girls: Girls remained unbeaten at junior levels since Christmas with Issy Y, Lily N, Olivia V-R and Bea C leading the way for some promising first years; and our seniors only lost once to Wellington at home - after beating them away – Molly C, Fionnuala D-M, Hannah W, Flo F and Emilia D all contributing impressively. The ground is prepared for Alice V-R, Tilly W and others to step up post lockdown. Representation in the Ladies British Open Doubles staged at Malvern in November, was better than any other school and College secured the Plate Trophy; the very same feat was repeated at the World Doubles at Wellington in January. Together with two runners-up trophies - Alice Vyvyan-Robinson & Tilly Wood in the U16 Alex Brodie Cup and Abby Whybrow & Fionnuala Dowling-Membrado in the U18 Robin Geffen Cup - at the National Schools Doubles at Queen’s in December, the girls can be proud of their achievements.

excellent performances in the latter part of the Autumn term against St Paul’s, Tonbridge and Clifton. As we say goodbye to great supporters of the Club in Will S and Gus M, our L6 players Gus E, Will T and Will H are all players that should be vying for honours next season.

Hopefully, Anay S – who also had a good run at Queen’s - and Theo N will also push them.

At junior level, healthy representation at both 4th and 3rd Form fronted by Robbie S, Freddy S, Joe C and Ekam K meant that many pupils have played competitively in fixtures; victories over Malvern, Harrow and Marlborough are testimony to these boys’ hard work.

Domestically, Max S won the Bridgeman Cup for Boys College Singles and Freddy S won the COAL Plate for Junior Singles. Sadly, due to Covid-19 and early departures, the KA Cook House Doubles Cup final and both girls’ competitions were unable to be completed.

The OC’s and guests also missed out on the Cheltenham Gold Racquet tournament, also a real shame. As ever, we continue to appreciate the support of other sports, and their Masters i/c; and, inevitably, Mark Briers’ as the core of our success.

I sign off then, remotely as it turns out, having enjoyed over 30 years somewhere near the helm of College Rackets. I reflect upon the passion for Rackets of Richard Morgan, Headmaster at Cheltenham in 1988 and responsible for both the post-WW2 opening of the Rackets court and my appointment, for he has much to answer for!

Boys: As well as securing a runners-up medal in The Renny Cup in December with Max Sutton’s splendid run at the Nationals, the boys became increasingly competitive at senior level with victories over Marlborough, Haileybury and Harrow in the Spring term, to complement some 113

Rackets

CLUB REPORTS Clifton

By Reggie Williams

I

t has been a learning curve for Clifton Rackets this season. Winning not many and losing a steady amount has been tough but all the year groups, boys and girls have worked hard at their skills. We had quite a few away games this year which the players enjoy with a cheeky Macky D's on the way back.

Oli (The Meds) Meadows captained the side and was inspirational in getting the squad to gel and encourage every player. Med’s partner, Luke Sumor Sutor, only played one match at the beginning of the season against Tonbridge and then sadly couldn't play for the rest of the season through injury. Jake (the Jakedge) Davies stepped up to play with Meds. To start with he was out of his depth but over time they competed well against other schools.

The Boasters Weekend was a huge success thanks to Sam, John and Eleanor Beale. The standard was high and great fun was had. Ben McGeoch & Nihar Navapukar won the Doubles beating Pudsey Panto & Tommy Probert in a superb final. Sam unfortunately couldn't play as he was unwell and hasn't been able to play this term. We all wish him well and a speedy recovery and to get back playing on the smallball sports in the near future. We certainly missed his presence on court.

Thanks very much for the Monday Evening club which is always great fun. Thanks also go to James Blackburn for all his hard work and passion for getting the Tuesday/Wednesday and Thursday evening's going so smoothly.

To all the Uni boys and Boasters who play regularly.

I would also like to thank Dylan Kent for the last three years while he's been in Bristol with Uni and his enthusiasm for the game, his support is very much appreciated for Clifton Rackets and the Boasters.

Meds did very well at Queen’s in the Renny and reached the quarter-finals losing to the 1st seed 17/15 16/14 in a very exciting match.

Eton

By Peter Brake

In the Junior Girls Doubles at Queen’s Sofia Trujillo and Millie Isaacs did fantastically well getting to the Semi finals losing to Wellington.

The Windows Trophy was won by Oli Meadows in the Senior Tournament. The Inverdale Racket was won by Marcus Allan in the Junior Tournament. The Beale Board was won by Noa Gispan in the Girls Tournament.

The James Blackburn Clifton Cup grows in popularity and is in its 3rd year. In the Singles Final Ben Cawston played quality Rackets to beat Mike Bailey, but Mike got his revenge in the Doubles. Mike and Paddy Sutton beat Ben and Tommy Probert 15/11 in the final game.

Silky skills were definitely on display by all players. The tournament was followed by a black dinner with much appreciated speeches

by Deane Pennick and Tommy Probert.

114

E

arly September brought the start of another eagerly anticipated season with fixtures against every Rackets playing school. We were in the fortunate position of having three highly skilled players, all in their final year, Patrick Smart (Keeper), Ben Smith, and George Genieser. Burning question was, which two would make up the Eton 1st pair?

The highlight of the season was without doubt our North American tour. Over Long Leave, eleven Etonians, Richard Montgomerie and I, departed Heathrow at the crack of dawn, hugely excited about the prospect of a jampacked Rackets playing week in the US. First stop, The Racquet Club of Chicago, a

splendid classical revival building, situated in the Gold Coast Historic District of the city. The fact that the club generously offer onsite accommodation is always a bonus. It was fantastic to see OE, Will Hopton, who made a special trip from Washington DC, to be with us on the Saturday for matches and a superb lunch hosted by the generous Chicago Club members. Next stop, The Montreal Rackets Club, one of the oldest clubs in existence, founded in 1889. Here, we were treated to a full day of doubles and another superb club dinner with games of pool, backgammon and cards adding to the fun. Onwards to New York, where, with huge thanks to Rob Genieser, we enjoyed three nights at the New York Athletic Club. Founded in 1868, the NYAC is an athletic powerhouse, with every sport you could wish for. It is magnificent! We played squash, doubles squash, swam in the indoor pool, played basketball, and in the evening retired to the snooker room for a few frames. The Racquet and Tennis Club is only a few blocks away and there we played six pairs of Rackets doubles matches against a very formidable team which included many National and World Champions.

Tremendous matches, but it would be fair to say, we struggled to win any! Another delicious dining experience and sincere thanks to all at The Racquet and Tennis Club, particularly to Jonathan Larken and James Stout, for such a memorable day. On Thursday we headed out of the city for a day trip to The Tuxedo Club, situated on the stunning Tuxedo Park lake. Here we played real tennis and rackets and enjoyed the laid-back atmosphere of this unique club.

Then it was back to Manhattan for our final Halloween themed evening. An amazing trip with everlasting memories.

In December, Eton were fortunate to have 3 out of the 4 seeds playing in the prestigious Foster

Cup at Queen’s, with Bristowe from Wellington being the player to beat. George Genieser gave a valiant attempt in the semi-final, pushing the top seed to the set in the 3rd game. However, in the final, Freddie Bristowe was on top form and produced some of the best school boy Rackets witnessed at Queen’s. Patrick Smart competed well against him, giving everything he could, but in the end Bristowe deservedly took the title. Other notable Eton performances in the National Singles came from Henry Daly (U16) and Wilf Walker (U15) who both reached the quarter-finals. As we all know, sadly the season ended prematurely before the National Schools’ Doubles could take place. We were so disappointed that our top three seniors were denied the chance to battle it out on court.

Truly challenging times and we all hope to be back playing again in the not too distant future.

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Rackets

CLUB REPORTS

the formalisation of an OH Rackets Committee, increased representation in the Noel Bruce Haileybury competition and last, but certainly not least,

By Graeme Tyndall proudly being able to boast as one of our own the new World Singles Champion, Tom Billings, who we thank for his generous support of the his truncated season saw continued current pupils. growth and development of Haileybury We look forward to getting our pupils, OHs Rackets, shown both in the sport’s profile and club members back on court as soon as and popularity within the school and the possible. current players starting to compete as equals again on the national stage.

T

At the top of the school, it was fantastic to see both senior girls pairs making it through a round in the main draw of the doubles this year, led by our captain and Head Girl Imogen Brace, with our extraordinary left-hander and relative novice, Arushi Narayanan, stalwart of the right hand court, Marie Assimakopoulos-Galka, and Colt, Scarlett Spavin. Sadly, for Bill Meacock, another early encounter with a title contender stopped his Renny Cup hopes short, but there was an impressive debut for the classy novice, Jack Timms. We look forward to Bill’s return from South Africa and leadership next season; Jack was joined by Head Boy Jake Ratcliffe and is followed by two more enthusiastic new 6th Form entries who have found Rackets the perfect accompaniment to their cricketing passions.

The junior game is thriving at Haileybury, with record numbers playing the game to an unprecedented standard in all of the years from 7-10, male and female, calling for a modern carousel format of yearlings matches to enable enough players to experience competitive Rackets. Haileybury also boasted the number 2 seeds in the U16 Girls’ (Scarlett Spavin) and U15 Boys’ (Ben Wells) tournaments, though sadly injury and Covid-19 prevented either from being able to live up to or exceed the expectations of their seeding. Our juniors are starting to compete again with the best on the circuit.

Harrow

By John Eaton

T

he overriding good news story from Harrow was the total revamp and resizing of our 1865 court. The project has been an amazing success producing a superb court that has kept some wonderful characteristics such as the central pillar and the abundance of natural daylight from the glass roof. It has also been modernised to have a steeper gallery and under floor heating.

The playing characteristics are excellent and the boys have been very excited to get onto the court which opened in February. We very much look forward to a grand opening when we are able to do it.

Appropriately the court will be named the Prenn-Hue Williams Court. The contribution of John Prenn and Charles Hue Williams to this project and support for the wider game of Rackets has been at such an outstanding level for many decades.

This project would not have been possible without the top class and unstinting efforts from all those involved in such a complex project. Doug Collins from the Harrow School Development Trust masterminded the extensive fund raising that made the project There continues to be developments in OH possible. Wayne Simpson was a resourceful and Rackets, with increasingly close relationship highly organised project manager. We also had between OH Rackets players and the school, Marcus Beale Architects, 8build construction 116

and Armourcoat who all combined to get us to a point where we have a wonderful facility for generations of Rackets players coming through the school.

As far as the Rackets at the school goes we say goodbye to Rishi Wijeratne and Henry Wilson from our first and second pairs respectively.

Rishi developed well after reaching the second pair doubles final in 2019. In partnership with Ben Hope, who improved dramatically, they won two of their three matches at 1st Pair.

People who have watched Rishi will remember his quick eye, ready smile and the way he played the game. Appropriately he won the internal Challenge Racket Singles event on our revamped court against Ben Hope. Henry Wilson has been a fine servant to the school and the highlight of his season was in partnership with Jonny Connell when they overcame a 2 game deficit to beat the Eton 2nd Pair on our first match on the Prenn Hue Williams court.

lost in the first round in a five game thriller.

Aaron Tomson and Gus Stephenson made it to the last 16 (3rd Round) of the Renny cup with Robbie Hardwick making it to the semifinals following a win against fellow Malvernian Gus Stephenson. Olly Cox also made it into quarter-finals of the Incledon-Webber losing to the eventual winner from St Paul’s. Tommy Boorman made it into the last 16 in the Jim Dear Cup and will be all the wiser for the experience.

In the Girls’ Doubles, our pairing of Maddie Queen and Ishbel Spencer-Nairn enjoyed their first experience of Queen’s playing in a couple of close matches. There was great team spirit throughout the week and as ever all players supported each other well from the balcony.

There was a great turn out for the Ladies Open Doubles Rackets Tournament, with seventeen enthusiastic and capable pairs entering. The standard of play continues to improve and it is great to see not only all the young players developing but that many of the seasoned At junior levels we have a committed and players continue to enter and raise the improving group of Colts players, a large standard of play. The top two seeds met in the strong group of Junior Colts and a promising final in what was an epic encounter; there was crop of U14 boys. The outstanding effort came some excellent serving, returns and rallies. from Tarquin Sotir who showed tenacity and The winners were Tara Lumley and Georgie temperament to reach the U15 singles semi- Willis who beat the Wellington College pairing final at Queen’s. of Lauren Gooding and Issie Thorneycroft.

Sadly, due to COVID-19 the season was cut short, our younger players will get another Malvern opportunity to play at Queen’s but sadly for

By Noel Brett many of our senior boys will not have got a chance to play in a school boy Doubles Competition in their final year but the season his was yet another thoroughly enjoyable we did have was enjoyable. season of Rackets (which was sadly cut short) and one in which we had good The team spirit is as strong as ever at Malvern numbers participating in all the squads for the and it is fantastic to be a part of the Rackets matches we played during the season. There sides here. A huge thank you from us all were some excellent wins and some tough to two Old Malvernians, Tom Bomford and losses. As always at the heart of our Rackets Mark Hubbard, for their continued support programme is that all players not only enjoy and coaching expertise. All of our players the game but love it and this was certainly appreciate every minute of your time and are achieved. better players for it.

T

The Singles at Queen’s was a good tournament; Dan Holland made it into the Foster cup, but

We now look forward to another great year in 2020/21, serve up Malvern!

117

Rackets

CLUB REPORTS Marlborough

By Mike Bush & Rob Wakely

A

rollercoaster of a campaign was very cruelly cut short as the Covid-19 pandemic hit in March, just as the season was reaching its crescendo with the Public Schools Boys Doubles and Girls Singles shortly about to commence.

It has been a while since it has been possible to field six players who can perform comfortably at 1st Pair level, but with Giles Hocking, Jamie Porter, Louis Dessalles, Ollie Munn, Ben Spink, and Arthur Hardwick, this is where Marlborough found themselves. The Hocking/ Porter combination (still a year young) had an erratic season overall, but at times proved they could compete with some of the best on the circuit. They secured a fine 3-2 win away at Malvern in the first match, coming from behind on a challenging court. Despite losing tight contests against Winchester, Harrow, St Paul’s and Eton, the quality of play was at times remarkably high. Incidentally, they lost 2-3 twice against strong Eton pairs. Ollie Munn and Louis Dessalles, when playing together, managed to achieve an unbeaten season and secured the No.3 seed position for the 2nd Pair Doubles at Queen’s. They both have enormous potential which could prove exciting in their final year. Arthur Hardwick, the gallant Captain, worked extremely hard at his game and proved on more than one occasion that he could play at the highest level when called upon. It was unfortunate that Rugby commitments prevented him from gaining a secure foothold overall. Ben Spink (another multifaceted sportsman who was captain of both hockey and cricket) played infrequently, but didn’t disappoint when he appeared on court. The 4th pair of Archie Del Mar and Ollie Light made significant strides forward this year, often competing against higher pairs from other schools, and can look forward to more consistency next year. Hugh Norman, Casper 118

Barker and Henry Bentley also made useful contributions when called upon.

At Colts level form proved to be unpredictable, but nevertheless satisfactory, as pairs regularly altered due to rugby and hockey commitments.

Donald Corbett, Monty Pretor-Pinney, Josh Tate, Sam Martin-Jenkins and Harry CampbellWalter showed encouraging form against good opposition. Next year the main aim will be to achieve consistency throughout an entire season. At Junior Colts level there were promising performances from Jake Burnell, Max Woodford, Seb Hebblethwaite, and latterly Charlie Brook. Jake’s season didn’t start until November due to an injury, however he made his mark on several occasions on his return. Max and Seb put in some spirited performances in his absence, notably defeating an awkward St Paul’s pair 3-2 in October. There are some promising Yearlings, Charlie Kirkwood, Teddy Burton, Raffy Tate, Max Wyman, Tom Chavasse, and Henry Cornell, who with hard work could do well. Girls Rackets continues to develop in an encouraging fashion as Charlotte Stafford, Georgie Cresswell, Tinka Barber and Grace Hornby all made significant strides forward.

Before the National Singles at Queen’s Jamie Porter won the Internal Singles final (Lucas Cup) in impressive style against his partner, defending champion and Foster Cup player Giles. Jamie was unstoppable playing some breathtakingly aggressive Rackets. This was just reward for incredibly hard work by Jamie throughout the term. Donald Corbett won the Bridgeman Cup (U16) beating Monty Pretor-Pinney in the final. The National Boys Singles & Girls Doubles at Queen’s proved to be disappointing, with some tough draws against several seeded opponents consigning all competitors to first or second round losses except for Monty Pretor-Pinney, who did well to reach the last 16 of the Incledon-Webber Cup. However, all was not lost. The college’s adopted ‘son’ Alex Renwick, a local pupil from St John’s School, Marlborough, astounded the competitors at Queen’s by winning the Renny Cup. A quite extraordinary performance

as he had to beat a very good player from Harrow in the first round, and four more tough opponents on the way to the final. The most impressive performance was against the No.1 seed in the semi-finals. In the final game Alex was 1-9 and 4-10 down before going on to win 15/10. He defeated Max Sutton of Cheltenham in the final: 15/13 15/3 16/13. To their credit, the Marlborough team were one hundred per cent behind Alex and delighted with his victory.

They all acknowledge they are better players as a result of Alex competing alongside them.

The sadness of the lockdown restrictions meant the season ended with a damp squib.

We hope for better news soon and remain excited about the return of Rackets when it is deemed safe to play again.

The Queen’s Club

By Ben Bomford

The Ladies game continues to grow at Queen’s Club and India was instrumental in encouraging the ladies this season. We started a dedicated Ladies Training session at the weekends followed by a club morning. This will continue into the new season so please do get in touch if you’d like to get involved. - Like the Saturday Morning Club, it is open to Non-Members.

The U25’s Subsidised Rackets Scheme remains open and is well supported. Please do get in touch if you’d like to take advantage of this great offer!

Sadly we lost Simon Kverndal to cancer recently. Simon was an incredible supporter of Rackets and The Queen’s Club and he will be sorely missed.

Congratulations to Tom Billings who became The Singles World Champion in November 2019 beating fellow Queen’s Club member, Alex Duncliffe-Vines. It’s fantastic to have one of our members holding the prestigious title.

Congratulations to India Deakin and Tara he 2019-2020 season will always be Lumley who became the Ladies World Doubles remembered for being cut short by the Champions beating Lea Van der Zwalmen and nationwide COVID 19 lockdown. Up Luisa Saint. All are members of The Queen’s until the end of March we had enjoyed a great Club. season with a full schedule of internal and external competition.

Hopefully we will all be back on court very soon! In the meantime, If you have The Club Championships are on hold at around any questions, please contact the Head of the semi-finals stage. We are not sure if they Rackets, Ben Bomford, on 0207 386 3407 or at will be completed this season and we are very realtennisandrackets@queensclub.co.uk. sorry not to have been able to hold the Finals Day alongside the three other sports.

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Our Club nights and mornings continue to be well supported and there are various initiatives in the evenings mid week to encourage players on court. Look out for more next season!

Our two fellows, Tom Panto and India Deakin, were superb. They provided invaluable help in the Pro’s room and plenty of hours on court with our membership. Next season we have Tom Astley and Alex Renwick joining us.

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By James Rock

Quarter Finals but will have gained invaluable experience from a great tournament run.

Jardine-Brown unfortunately suffered an injury ackets at Radley continues to go from during his second round contest and had to strength to strength. The club currently withdraw from the tournament. We have high has 42 players and the court has been hopes for this pairing next year and as long put to full use throughout the Michaelmas and as they stay injury free, they should be very Lent terms. competitive on the school circuit next year.

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Led by captain Ed Crowston (D 6'2) and senior players Dom Stone (J 6'1) and Max JardineBrown (K 6'1), the first pair had some great results across the year. Our senior players were supported by our Colts pair of Magnus Garson (C 5th) and George Acheson-Gray (F 5th), both of whom, when called upon, didn't look out of place at the top level. Victories against Marlborough, Cheltenham, Haileybury, Charterhouse and Eton really set the tone for the season ahead. A battling loss to Harrow was the only blip on the record in the first half of the Michaelmas term. There was a slightly more mixed bag of results in the 2nd half of term. With the focus moving towards the singles at Queens, the boys struggled away at Cheltenham and Rugby but the Radley court remained a fortress. Wins against Marlborough, Malvern and Clifton left the boys feeling confident going into the National Schools Singles at Queen’s. Crowston was our soul representative in the Foster Cup. Ed will be the first to admit his Queen’s record isn't as good as it could be and facing Holland of Malvern College was a daunting task. The packed gallery were treated to a wonderful contest.

After over 2 hours of play Crowston won the match 3-2, finally gaining just reward for the time and effort he has put into the game over his 5 years at Radley. A titanic performance. In the next round Ed was facing Smart of Eton, the number 2 seed. After another valiant effort he went down 3-0, possibly feeling the effects from the previous day’s play, he was never allowed to get into a rhythm and Smart proved too strong.

Dom Stone had a great run in the Renny Cup. He eventually lost to Sutton of Cheltenham in the 120

Our Colts had a very strong season. Garson and Acheson-Gray were ably supported by Jonty Duncan (J 5th) and Toby Thame (E 5th). Garson and Acheson-Gray only losing one match all year when partnered together. We couldn't be more pleased with the effort all four boys have put in. This hard work and application was on full display at the National School singles. Thame came through a scrappy first round contest and then pushed McCourt of Eton to the wire in the next round. Duncan had a tough draw and lost to Sarin of St Paul’s, a free hitting left hander.

Acheson-Gray came through a tricky contest against Hadfield of Tonbridge and eventually lost to Cox of Malvern in the 4th round. Garson, seeded 2 was our main hope for Queen’s glory this year. He is a wonderful handler of a racquet and possesses a great combination of grace and flare when on court. He avenged Duncan's defeat by beating Sarin in his first match and then had too much for Livesey of St Paul’s in the next round. In the semis he faced Hatfield of St Paul’s, who he had beaten in the semi final the previous year. This was Hatfield's day, Oli played some magnificent Rackets and Magnus was never really given the opportunity to get into the game and find his customary timing and rhythm, eventually losing 3-0. A great effort and there will be more opportunities to come.

Our Junior Colts continue to show promise and will be very competitive in the future.

Monty Donald (C Remove), Harry Markham (G Remove) and Harry Wilson (G Remove), all have the potential to be top players. All three are fantastic all round sportsmen, which inevitably means they haven't had as much time on court as some of their counter parts. We are very excited for what lies ahead.

We have been blessed with a great crop of U14 players this year. Rory Acheson-Gray (F shell) and Hugo Acheson-Gray (B shell) are following in the footsteps of their older brother and indeed father who played for Charterhouse.

Woody Walker (C shell) and Ambrose Garson (C shell) are both naturally gifted players who can progress into top players. Sam Maynard (K shell) and George Reynolds (J shell), had tough matches at Queen’s this year but will have gained invaluable experience going forward.

Hugo had a great run in the tournament eventually losing to the top seed. Sadly Woody and Hugo had to play each other in the second round. We remain hopeful that these boys can continue to push each other and bring out the best in each one another in years to come.

Exciting times ahead.

Rugby

By Phil Rosser

were a decent day out and an occasion to look forward to. We would set off at break or before, and always have lunch and tea with the opposition. This hopefully made the actual matches only part of the educational process, a feature becoming lost in other sports. Even more than this I would add the time that Peter Dewey became master-in-charge. This led to three trips to the States, and just as important, annual trips to Manchester and overnight stays at Hayling Island. The feel for Rackets during this period led to greater participation in the school, but just as important more adults carrying on playing after school. It is great to see O.R.s playing in tournaments, taking the advantage of the fellowship scheme, and even going on tour!

There is great potential for Rackets to now grow at Rugby. There are many good games players, both boys and girls, but access to them needs to be gained by a professional working from within the games department. I hope to hear of Rackets thriving at all fourteen schools in the future.

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ugby Rackets had a another enjoyable and rewarding season. The first pair soon settled as Peter Colbourne and Albert Sitwell although Freddie Middleton pushed hard for a place. The first pair won half their St Paul’s matches, but Middleton and Charlie BruceBy Steve Tulley Jones formed the most successful pair in the school at second pair level. The under 16 pair of Jacob Bethell and Fred Thame made significant progress and there was a strong t Paul’s Rackets continues to flourish under 14 group led by Oscar Briggs. At Queen's, Sitwell had a good run to the quarter-finals with the good fortune of talented boys and is capable of getting close in the years to able to turn their abilities into great come, and Middleton also won two matches. performances during the National Schools Championships at Queen’s and thus keeping The end for the Rugby Rackets professional after the trophy cabinet sparkling.

38 years. There have been a few successes, if Luckily this level of play and success is success is judged by performances at Queen's infectious with other boys waiting to play glue club. However, if I had to pick what defined their faces on the glass court door champing Rugby Rackets it would not be these moments. at the bit to get a chance to play which helps It would start with the fact that all away matches keep the numbers and enthusiasm high.

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Last seasons favourable results were likely to have surpassed, or certainly equalled any other during our relatively short 19-year-old history, particularly with, not surprisingly, the juniors leading the way – Olly Hatfield, George Livesey, Ran Sarin and James Rossiter were the back one of our weekly fixtures although with another great intake of yearlings mainly from the junior school, the future looks bright.

However, as per the norm with naturally talented ‘challenged’ individuals, the seniors struggled to find time or enthusiasm to practice on a regular basis. Also it is a well known fact that the day-to-day Pauline has always had difficulties being available for away fixtures on a Thursday afternoon so unfortunately paid the price when in competition at home, on the road, and at Queen’s greatly wounding their already shaky confidence.

The National Schools Singles at Queen’s in December was a particularly good event with eight boys still battling spread across the four events on the Thursday and although 50% bit the dust on that day, four boys remained for semi-final day. In the Renny Cup, top seed Dexter Conrad, lost his semi in an exciting 3 gamer with Alex Renwick of St John’s School, Marlborough -- Oliver Hatfield won the Incledon Webber Cup with outstanding semi final and final performances against tough opponents Magnus Garson of Radley and Will Pike of Tonbridge, the level of both matches were of the very highest standard by three players who, refreshingly, shared the same immense level of respect for each other on and off the court. James Rossiter won the Jim Dear Cup for the U-15s in fantastic fashion with the loss of a single game, a thoroughly welldeserved result for a lad who epitomises the words, “dedication” and “commitment”. Our remaining semi-finalist Will Thomas (a boy with a heart of a lion) and though slightly technically challenged, his character and self-belief completely dwarfs any questionable Racket handling skills.

Unfortunately, the National Schools Doubles Championships 2020 were postponed/ cancelled due to Covid19 so we have no results at the time.

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Next year’s Captain of Rackets will be multiple National Schools Winner, Isaac Wighton and Secretary Darshan Arjun, winner of the 2019 National Schools Doubles Championships, ‘Eric Angus Cup’.

Tonbridge

By David Makey

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his was to turn into an unusual season.

The 1st pair Tommy Owen-Browne & Ben Robinson only lost 3 matches all season, and the 2nd pair Tom Astley & Harry Bevan-Thomas were undefeated. Sadly, they like everyone else were unable to play in the Doubles at Queen’s in March due to Covid-19.

At Queen’s in December unseeded Ben Robinson played some exhilarating Rackets to reach the semi-final of the Foster Cup. He played extremely well in the semi, but he was defeated by Patrick Smart, the Eton number 2.

Our juniors fared slightly better. Finn Kirkland beating the 1st seed in the quarter-finals of the U16, Incledon Webber Cup, before losing the following day to William Pike, his mate and doubles partner. Pike played superbly in the Final but was fairly beaten 3 games to 1 by the 2nd seed Ollie Hatfield, of St Paul’s.

In the U15, The Jim Dear Cup we had a possible contender in Alex McPherson. Macca is a rarity at Tonbridge in that he is a squash player, but one who plays with a proper Rackets’ technique. He gained confidence with every round played and reached the final, though OT Kevin Walker’s son Wilf, sadly sent by his father to Eton! gave him a tough match in the quarter final. In the final Macca was never allowed to find his normal rhythm by the 1st seeded James Rossiter of St Paul’s. It was a decent final as Jim Dears go, but Rossiter had too many weapons and deservedly won the cup.

The Rackets club at Tonbridge School is a crazy

the senior players, but also enabled large numbers of Yearlings and Junior Colts, both boys and girls, to spend more time on court and thus accelerate their progress. In the same season, reported in greater detail elsewhere, Ben won the British Invitational Singles, British Professional Singles and US Open Singles, and reached the final of the British Open Singles.

To achieve this and at the same time to spend hours on court with novices to the game Wellington says much about Ben’s ability, dedication,

By Charles Oliphant-Callum enthusiasm and simple decency. Wellington is proud of Ben’s achievements this year and of our association with him, and wish him the lose of play on the 2019-20 season very best for what appears to be a very exciting came at an extremely frustrating time future in the game. for WCRC. After a very successful Lent Term, with particularly impressive victories over main rivals Eton and Tonbridge, the Lilly & Milly U16 Girls Doubles 1st Pair of Freddie Bristowe (Bd) and Ethan (plate winners) Queen’s Distelbrink (M) were approaching the Boys’ Doubles Championships at Queen’s Club as top seeds. Ethan will have another chance next season however, and Freddie celebrated an impressive Foster Cup win in December in his second consecutive final and third year in the event. On the same day, Issie Thorneycroft and Lauren Gooding successfully defended their Senior Girls’ Doubles title, shortly after Cesca Sweet and Sophia Grillo had won the Junior Girls’ Doubles Trophy. place, with it seems ever increasing numbers, but our lads all seem to love their Rackets and long may that continue with the old pro becoming ever more grouchy!

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With professional Ryan Tulley always encouraging Wellingtonians to look at the world of Rackets beyond the school game, other highlights of the season included a very enjoyable trip to the Manchester Tennis & Rackets Club, and hosting a leg of the Knott Stephens Tour in October. In November, Lauren and Issie reached the final of British Ladies Open at Malvern, losing by the narrowest of margins after having the first match point. In March, Wellington hosted the biggest event in ladies’ Rackets, the inaugural World Doubles.

A significant part in WCRC’s hugely successful season was played by Ben Cawston, completing his training as a Rackets professional at Wellington over the academic year. The hours which Ben spent on court doubtlessly contributed to the success of

Winchester

By Charlie Inglis

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inchester has enjoyed yet another strong year in the world of Rackets.

The second term was our more successful with the team winning all but one fixture. Prince’s, Arthur Adams (D) and Hamish Duncan (X), started well this year beating Charterhouse after starting term only two days earlier. They also went on to beat Cheltenham, St Paul’s, Clifton and Marlborough culminating in an impressive nine wins from 14 matches.

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Ollie Gibbon (I), our aspiring 3rd year, stepped up to the mark and played for Prince’s on several occasions contributing to three wins and a close 3-2 loss against Eton. The colts A pair included various players this season but their highlight performances must be the 3-2 wins with O. Gibbon and George Gardiner (D) against Eton and Ollie Reynolds (X) and Wilf la Fontaine-Jackson (B) against Tonbridge. Both our pairings called upon boys from the year below. The junior colts A pair also delivered good results and W. La Fontaine-Jackson and G. Gardiner, when playing together, were unbeaten. Our yearlings pair are exciting prospects for the future and Henry Nicholls (A) and Bertie Vallat (F) managed an unbeaten season.

Wykeham Monday Club

By Neale Turner

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t the end of September we were delighted to welcome to Winchester the NARA Knott-Stephens touring party lead

by Phil Stockton. Visits to Winchester Cathedral and Winchester Castle were followed by an evening of very enjoyable Rackets at the College and a memorable dinner hosted by Nick Hubbard in his barn in the Hampshire countryside. The next morning a fascinating tour of the College lead by Tom Jesty and a quick venture onto the Fives courts preceded lunch at the Wykeham Arms before the tourists departed Winchester for Eton College.

I am extremely grateful to Jonathan Jesty for his terrific help in organising and executing the programme and also to Tim Cawston for his invaluable support.

The Winchester tournament took place at the end of February with a slightly smaller entry than usual but played with the customary enthusiasm and good humour. We were once again honoured to welcome Manny Tancer from Detroit and entertained spectacularly by an exhibition match involving Tom Bomford and Ben Cawston together with the Winchester College first pair Arthur Adams and Hamish Duncan. The tournament itself was won in convincing style by Rob and Alex Renwick who beat Simon Armstrong and Nick Hubbard in the final. I would like to thank all those who travelled to play, those who helped out with marking and especially Colin Astridge and Tim Cawston without whose magnificent efforts It is a tragic turn of events that the National and hard work behind the scenes the day Schools Doubles Championships did not take simply would not happen. place, especially for boys in their final year.

Prince’s had high hopes and were to be seeded It is with great sadness that I have to report the 4. They had recently put up an impressive passing of two former club members of longaway performance against Wellington, the no standing; Chris Slater in January and Charles Russell-Sealey in May. Both will be greatly 1 seeds, losing in the final game. missed by all who enjoyed the privilege of their I would like to thank Tim Cawston for all the warm-hearted friendship and good humour hard work and energy he puts into Rackets both on and off the court. at Winchester. The welcoming atmosphere he creates ensures boys spend longer at the Finally I would like to thank Tim for his tireless courts and so develop not only their Rackets support and zeal. We look forward to next season. ability but also a real passion for the game.

In the National School’s Singles both W. La Fontaine-Jackson and B. Vallat fought hard to make it to the quarter finals of the Jim Dear event, the former managing to score more points from the eventual winner than anyone else. Bertie put up an admirable fight in his quarter, narrowly losing in the final game but remarkably has the opportunity of competing in the same event next year. O. Reynolds was knocked out late on in the Incledon-Webber losing to a finalist. In the Foster cup our two entrants, A. Adams and H. Duncan, came close in their matches both losing 3-2 to top-flight opponents. All other Wykehamists competed well in their respective events.

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In Canada, Larken continued his dominance of Amateur Racquets in North America with a convincing victory over Zack Sacks 3-0. In the doubles Jonathan and his nephew Julian Owston prevailed over Charles Buaron and Zack Sacks 3-1.

In February, The Tuxedo Club hosted their Gold Racquet and US Pro singles together. In the Gold Racquet, Peter Cipriano won the singles for the third consecutive time overcoming Montreal fellow, Harry Purton 3-0. In the Pro orth American Racquets is flourishing. Singles it was great to see nine professionals We are seeing the benefits of several competing. The final was an all New York event NARA initiatives to grow the game and with Barney Tanfield eventually coming out on participation remains strong across all our clubs. top against Neil Smith 3-2.

We would like to thank all our professionals for their hard work to support the game.

The US Open, North America’s flagship tournament was held in Chicago in early The season kicked off in Detroit with the March. The event was extremely well attended recently introduced Under 35 interclub event. from both domestic and international players.

Five clubs were represented and it has proven Rob Wood was honored for his commitment a great success introducing younger players to and support to North American Racquets over the game. multiple decades.

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Detroit also, for the first time, hosted the 2nd leg of the Racquets World Championship. The DRC hosted a terrific weekend which was well attended and supported by the North American Racquets community. Tom Billings won the first and only game needed and was crowned the new World Champion, congratulations to Tom. In November, the R&T in New York hosted the US Amateur Singles and Doubles together with the Silver Racket. The Thursday night stag was memorable as we honored the lives of two enormous supporters of the game, Elihu Inselbuch and Lou Habina. On the courts, Jonathan Larken gave away many years but not many points when beating Christian Portz 3-0. In the doubles Portz & Cipriano overcame Larken & Sacks 3-0.

January starts with the Kendrick Cup (novice players of three years and under) which saw R&T’s Ben Lawrence triumphant in an all R&T final. The future of North American Racquets looks bright.

With our new World Champion Tom Billings beaten in the semi-final, Richard Owen and Ben Cawston were left to battle it out. The match was a nail biter with both players having match points. Eventually Ben’s skill and agility prevailed, and he claimed his first US Open Championship. In the doubles, the number one seeded pair of Billings & Owen overcame Bailey & James 3-1 in the final.

The Western Open in Philadelphia, the final tournament of the season was unfortunately impacted by Covid 19. In the Singles final, Peter Cipriano overcame Barney Tanfield 3-0.

Both quickly turned around to compete in the doubles final against John Lumley and Jon Crowell. With the match square at 2-2, Cipriano and Tanfield drew on their experience to come away 2020 Western Open champions.

We encourage all our friends from the UK to travel to North America next season to participate in the tournaments and enjoy the camaraderie.

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November 2019 Annual General Meeting The meeting was held in the Centenary House Meeting Room at the Queen’s Club on Wednesday 27th November at 1800

Attendees: David Norman (President, in the Chair), David Watson (Chairman), Chris Davies (CEO & Secretary), Andrew Power (Treasurer), Richard Pettit (Hon Solicitor), Chris Vigrass, John Saville, William Maltby, John McVittie, James McDermott, Brian Sharp, Simon Talbot-Williams, Olga Nechaeva, Peter Holmes, Richard MacAlister, Nicholas Browne, Alan Giddins, David Sloan, Giles Stogdon, James Bruce, Lesley Ronaldson, John Prenn, Charles Hue Williams, Owen Saunders, Frederic de Siebert, Fred Satow, Charlie Foreman, Sue Haswell, Carl Snitcher, John Whiting.

1. Apologies for absence: Andrew Myrtle, Jamie Bebb, Martin Farmworth, Luke Readman, John Tudor, Andrew James, Clive Picton, Andrew Beeson, Robert Langley, Bernard Weatherill, Barry Aitken, Earl of Buckingham, Ronald Paterson, Roger Pilgrim, Mark Thistlethwaite, Henry Tudor Mr DM Norman thanked and was grateful to all attending to take the time to join the meeting.

2. The Notice was issued in September 2019 and promulgated to Members along with the Annual Report.

3. The Minutes of the Annual General Meeting held at The Queen’s Club on 14th November 2018 were approved proposed by Mr ACB Giddins, seconded by Mr CJ Foreman and signed by the President.

4. There were no matters arising not covered later in the meeting.

5. The T&RA Chairman, Mr DK Watson, reported to the Membership by summarising the 2018/19 season. a) Mr DK Watson congratulated the new Rackets World Champion, Tom Billings, and said that it was great to see the title return to British soil. He announced the new Rackets Amateur Singles champion as Christian Portz. The Rackets Noel Bruce organisers were to be congratulated for rallying 50+ pairs for the tournament and noted in the Ladies game that there are some really talented players with Lea Van der Zwalmen being a very positive force for the game. He acknowledged the Rackets Mixed Doubles as an exciting addition to the fixture calendar. In Tennis, he congratulated Claire Fahey on her continued achievements despite her busy life and hoped that the future would see her having new challengers. b) He said that his priority was still to capture more youth in the sub 18 age group in both games and hang onto them, citing that we lose too much young talent, during and after University. c) Another important remit was to address the issue of the ageing professional population, with a third being over 50 at the moment. Despite age and experience being of great value there is a need to refresh the talent pool in both sports.

Players like Camden Riviere and Claire Fahey are fantastic role models. He has been encouraged to see the energy and enthusiasm of Juniors and he encouraged everyone to come and see them play in July. Of particular note he praised Max Warner, aged 8, for winning the Under 12 Open. d) He was pleased to see that many Clubs are going into the communities to promote play by young people and he promised T&RA support financially and procedurally. e) He reported progress on the Universal Membership Initiative with a 60% growth reaching 3,800. f) The President thanked Mr DK Watson for his review and invited questions from the floor.

1) Mr S Talbot-Williams asked about how we research incomes and compare with other racquets sports, such as lawn tennis, squash, badminton. Mr CS Davies responded that there is a large variation in earning capacity with many of our professionals being on different models. Mr DK Watson said that we didn’t know enough about the earnings of lawn tennis professionals, but it would be clear that the salary divide between the two sports was very different, with lawn tennis professionals having a greater earning power. Mr Talbot-Williams further pointed out that a professional may lose income when a junior is on court, which isn’t ideal. Mr DK Watson responded that this would be given some thought.

2) Mr J McDermott pointed out that the remuneration for a US professional can be well into six figures and there were at least six professionals who have this level of earnings. Mr Watson responded that the US Clubs had significantly greater per capita income and hence could and did pay more. Whilst this lead to some loss of British talent it did offer enhancement opportunities for top pros.

3) Mr D Sloan asked whether the T&RA ought to push the US to pay for training when they reap the benefits of attracting British professionals. Mr DK Watson responded that we needed to reach a position of global qualification/international accreditation. Mr D Sloan welcomed T&RA central funding at a sensible level but what is being done about Clubs needing to increase court fees for Tennis and Rackets. Mr DK Watson acknowledged there were Clubs that need to increase court fees but it is not in the T&RA’s gift to dictate pricing policy to Clubs. Mr S Talbot-Williams pointed out that if there weren’t clubs in difficulty, then costs wouldn’t have to rise.

In accordance with Article 32.2.2, the Annual Report of the Company for the 2018/19 season was adopted with alacrity, having been proposed by Mr WJ Maltby and seconded by the Hon JHM Bruce. (Ordinary Resolution 1 in the Notice of Annual General Meeting).

6. Mr AC Power reported on the Financial Status divided into the management of three discrete areas:

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a) Regular membership activities with subscriptions being used to pay administrative expenses of the T&RA. As projected this is more or less in balance with almost 1,000 new members boosting subscription income. b) Tournament costs are planned to be covered by Sponsorship and Donations, which was the case in 2018. c) Development, where earnings from our investment portfolio and donations are used to pay for the development and support of professionals and the building and improvement of courts. We ran a surplus in 2018/19 as grants were significantly lower than the record of £107k awarded in 2017/18, reflecting a low level of grant applications. d) The investment portfolio is a healthy £2.5m with £1.8 m being in unrestricted funds, generating £48k in interest and dividends, and £75k in unrealised capital gains. Looking forward to 2019/20 we are investing in IT and staff costs to support the significantly higher member numbers. As a result, we will run a slight deficit on regular expenditure. Tournaments will break even. On development, grants are projected to be £65k, up from £35k last year. With the higher level of grants and staff costs, we were budgeting for net income to be £12.5k, down from £80k. Based on the first three months, we have updated our forecast to suggest net income will be £28K because of a higher level of donations than forecast. In summary, the T&RA is in a good financial position and well positioned to fund initiatives that support its mission.

1) Mr C Hue Williams wanted to be put on record that Harrow were absolutely delighted with their grant donation from the T&RA. Mr CS Davies responded that two significant grant applications, one in each game. Tennis Court Lite is now looking for a developer to prove the concept in practice. Brochures have been produced. TCL aims to deliver 90% of the experience for 50% of the cost.

2) Mr DM Norman asked if there would be a TCL built in the next 12 months or is it a matter of finding an appropriate site.

Mr DK Watson responded that iwithout a development in progress it is unlikely that a new court would be built during 2020. Of the £98,000 already invested in TCL, £58,000 had been contributed by the T&RA which had generated useful insights.

In accordance with Article 32.2.2, the Trustee’s Report and Financial Statements for the twelve months ended 30 June 2019 were adopted unanimously having been proposed by Mr B Sharp and seconded by Mr J McVittie. (Ordinary Resolution 2 in the Notice of Annual General Meeting).

7. In accordance with Article 50.4.1, haysmacintyre were appointed as registered auditors to carry out an Independent Examination of the Company’s accounts for the financial period 1st July 2019 to 30th June 2020. (Ordinary Resolution 3 in the Notice of Annual General Meeting). Mr JAN Prenn proposed and Mr FC Satow seconded. This was carried unanimously.

8. Mr WJ Maltby, Mr CJ Foreman and Mr ACB Giddins were confirmed as Directors of the Company in accordance with Articles 20.2, 23.1 and 23.2, with effect from 27 November 2019, by the passing of Resolution 4 in the Notice of Annual General Meeting.

Mr C Vigrass proposed, Mr P Holmes seconded and this was carried unanimously.

9. In accordance with Articles 20.2 and 21.5, Mr AC Power and Ms KJ Leppard were confirmed as Directors of the Company for a period of three years, by the passing of Resolution 5 in the Notice of Annual General Meeting. Mr J McDermott proposed, Mr J Saville seconded and this was carried unanimously.

10. In accordance with Operating Procedure 11.1 and 11.7 the unopposed election of Mr C Lintott and the unopposed re-election of Mrs J Newby as members of the Tennis Committee were announced, with effect from 01 April 2019.

11. The Board’s proposed increases to Individual, Associate and Affiliated Club subscription rates in accordance with the schedule (below), by the passing of Resolution 6 in the Notice of Annual General Meeting was proposed by Mrs L Ronaldson, seconded

by Mr G Stogdon and carried unanimously.

Subscription or Affiliate Club Subscriptions

2018/19 and 2019/20

Proposed 2020/21

70 and over

£35.25

£36.50

28 – 69

£63.50

£65.50

21-27

£38.00

£39.00

Under 21 or Full Time Students (under 28)

£15.25

£15.50

£28.00

£29.00

Clubs/Schools/Universities with their own courts

£156.00

£160.00

Nomadic/ Evening clubs (without any court facilities)

£78.00

£80.00

Clubs/Schools/Universities without their own courts

£39.00

£40.00

Individual Full Membership Subscription Rates at age of joining

Associate Membership Subscription Rates All ages Affiliate subscriptions

12. Any Other Business Mr DM Norman thanked the Hon JHM Bruce for his 13 years’ immeasurable service as a DBTRAF Trustee, and as the DBTRAF Chairman for the latter ten years. He had taken a lot of time and trouble over the role, always scrutinising proposals with due diligence and received enthusiastic applause from those present.

With no further business the meeting closed at 18.47.

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Tennis & Rackets

ANNUAL AWARDS 2019 Negretti Cup

Top amateur Rackets performance Tom Billings 2019 World Champion Open Singles & Doubles Champion

Latham Cup

Rackets Professional outstanding performance Ben Bomford Professional Singles Champion

Renny Cup

Best Rackets improvement Mike Bailey Amateur Doubles Champion

Lillibet Bowl

Best Ladies Rackets performance Lea Van der Zwalmen Ladies World Champion Ladies Open Singles Champion

Greenwood Trophy

Best Real Tennis improvement Lea Van der Zwalmen Ladies World Number 2

Warburg Salver

Real Tennis Professional outstanding performance John Lumley IRTPA Professional Singles Champion

Baerlein Cup

Top Real Tennis amateur performance Jamie Douglas Amateur Singles Champion

Maltby Salver

Volunteer of the Year The Honourable Jamie Bruce Long service as Chairman of the Dick Bridgeman TRA Foundation Trustees and his current chairmanship of the T&RA Investment Committee

Congratulations to all of our award winners for the 2018-19 season!

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Support the T&RA it needs you

The T&RA is an independent charity, which relies on annual subscriptions, sponsorship, donations and investment income.

The T&RA works specifically to advance amateur sport for the benefit of the public by encouraging participation in Tennis and Rackets through such means as the Trustees think fit including but

not limited to:

- acting as the governing body for Tennis and Rackets in the United Kingdom; - organising Tennis and Rackets tournaments and other events where the sports are played - increasing participation in Tennis and Rackets by those under 18 years of age and by under-represented groups including those with disabilities; and - providing grants to clubs, schools and universities to assist in the provision of facilities for Tennis and Rackets.

The T&RA makes grants towards advancing Tennis and Rackets by assisting with the cost of training professionals, the repair and maintenance of courts, the building of new courts and encouraging more entrants to the games at school or university. Recently it has made grants towards the new court at Wellington College, significant support towards Tennis Court Lite and a grant to Harrow School, as well as training of new professionals and encouraging students at schools or universities without courts to learn Tennis or Rackets at a nearby location. Additionally, the T&RA has invested in technology, beneficial to all clubs. These grants are essential to maintain the health and prosperity of both games.

Donations are greatly welcomed and vital for ensuring this kind of support can continue. As a charity, The T&RA can also benefit from reclaiming Gift Aid on any qualifying donation from a UK taxpayer, an ideal way to make your generous gift go ever further. If you wish to make a donation, please contact the Chief Executive (executive@ tennisandrackets.com) who will make the necessary arrangements.

Leave a legacy to safeguard the future You can leave a legacy to the T&RA which, as a registered charity, is free of Inheritance Tax. It is always best to seek the advice of your solicitor, but suggested wording for a legacy to the T&RA in your will or by codicil is: I give and bequeath to the Tennis & Rackets Association Limited (Registered Charity No 1167866) the sum of ÂŁ........... free of all inheritance tax, such sum to be applied to the general purpose of the said charity and I DECLARE that the receipt of the Chief Executive or other authorised officer of the T&RA shall be sufficient discharge to my Executor/s.

BROWN ADVISORY IS PROUD TO SPONSOR THE TENNIS & RACKETS ASSOCIATION Brown Advisory is an independent investment management firm offering a wide range of solutions to individuals, families, charities and institutions.

We are committed to delivering a combination of first-class performance, strategic advice and the highest level of service.

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