The Division 1 final between Stephen Doel (handicap 28) and Alan Sharpe (handicap 49) was the closest of matches from the very start and continued without either player achieving a significant lead. However, Stephen overcame the significant handicap difference to get one hand on the Champagne. Just as we thought Alan was beaten, he came back with the court coverage of an undergrad and an amazing run of points to take the match 8/7.
Riya Bharwad (59) played Alex Ridgeon (65) in the Division 2 final. Alex started very well, leading 4 games to love with his customary flicks, changing the direction of the ball at the very last fraction of a second and stunning the crowd with blistering speed around the court. At this stage Riya quelled her nerves and controlled the ball with great skill when serving and receiving. The quality of her underarm twist and bobble services were testament to hours of practice over the summer months. At 5 games all, with Alex tiring, Riya took control of the match to win 8/5.
There was some concern that Simon Aldous (73) would not cope with giving John Sheekey (74) a head start in the Division 3 final. Wrong! This was another thrilling final; Simon serving excellent underarm twists, placing the ball into the corners and John showing great speed and athleticism. At 6-all, Simon’s service advantage deserted him and John bounded his way to grasp the champagne with an 8/6 win. Simon showed equal amounts of joy winning his prize.
Many thanks to Pol Roger for their generous sponsorship of this year’s Champagne Leagues!

Kees