This year’s Christmas tournament was as successful as ever, with a full draw of 24 Christmas hangovers on court fighting for the coveted box of chocs. The creative format of the draw, by John Trapp, requires successful players to be able to overcome opponents of vast differences in handicap in singles matches plus the ability to coordinate effectively in new doubles pairings.

Groups are formed of a low handicap, a medium handicap and a high handicap – only one player makes it though to the knockout rounds. In the knock-out stage John Reid struggled with Noah Wright’s serve and Tony Kennedy couldn’t cope with Alex Peake’s energy, setting up the semi between Alex and Noah in which Alex won 6-2.

In the bottom half of the draw Geoffrey Greatrex defeated Richard Bowers on match point for both players, and Alan Harris (who gallantly stood in for the group winner Jeremy F) also won 6/5 versus John Burnett. Alan’s smooth swing and calm movement allowed him to conserve his energy and win 6/3 against the tiring Geoffrey.

For a further year the final was viewed by family members trying to remain unbiased with their applause but quietly hoping to return home with the box of Lindt. After a close first game which Alan won, Alex took a strong 4-1 lead with excellent speed around the court. However, Alan calmly came back to make it 5-all.

The 15 year old Alex almost lost his opportunity as the handicap in the final game was now providing Alan with less of a disadvantage, but Alex showed his desire for the prize and attacked consistently for the dedans, which proved a winning strategy.

Congratulations Alex!

Kees