The annual Christmas CURTC Tournament on 27 December 2025 was one of those events we only fully appreciate when it’s missing — a reminder of just how special it is. A day awash with memories, smiles, and genuinely joyful moments, it delivered exactly what makes this club such a great place to be.

Huge thanks go to Peter, tirelessly on the go from 08:00 onwards, keeping everything running seamlessly, and to Alan Sharpe, whose constant and diligent marking was beyond reproach — even if the festive hat made it impossible to take him entirely seriously 😍. Jokes aside, this dedication is precisely why the club’s members make it a great club.

There were plenty of inspiring performances and joyful wins, including Gillian Moore, and the “now not so young” Felicity, freshly back in competition after her first term at York University. We all know Felicity will still be playing — and inspiring others — well into her 70s, 80s and beyond.

The tournament even had an international flavour, with Danny (from across the Atlantic (Canada… or was it the USA? 🇺🇸🤭), and Colin, who not only contributed a delightful handmade cake packed with healthy nuts, but also looked impeccably turned out — as if he’d just stepped off Clint Eastwood’s Unforgiven set (though with a much better smile 😃).

With genuine member contributions, some exceptional rallies, and a warm festive spirit throughout, it was a day many will treasure — one that perfectly captured why this tournament, and this club, mean so much to so many. For 2025, champion Charlie Perks will long into the wind continue this heritage status (huge congratulations Charlie).

Ian Glasscock

ps Results from the Group phase (Doubles & Singles) can be found HERE