2024 TERRY MARSHALL SINGLES TOURNAMENT – SUNDAY 29TH SEPTEMBER
Over the years several different formats have been tried for this event. We started with a handicap knockout competition, moved onto no handicaps with players split into groups, and in 2024 arrived at a one day tournament event. Thankfully the weather was kind to us, and despite an autumnal feel to the day, it remained fine.
Ten players entered and were split into 2 groups of 5. Four players were seeded, 2 in each group. In Group 1 Justin Mallinson (the 2023 Singles Winner) and Simon Kitching(several times winner of this cup), were seeded. In Group 2 Sean McKeag (the 2023 runner up) and Frank Kucera (several times winner of this cup) were seeded. Within the groups each player then played all other players in their group, in a match consisting of 4 games, with a point being awarded for each game won. At the end of this phase of play the top 2 in each group progressed to the semi-finals, and it was a surprise to see that not all our seeds were amongst these names.
In Group 1 Simon came through as group winner with a strong score of 11 points. In second place, and despite losing 4-0 to Simon in the opening match, was one of our veterans Tom Johnson, with a score of 9 points. Group 2 saw some very high scores, with Frank securing first place with 13 points and, a newcomer to these events, Luke Doddington a very creditable 11 points to finish second.
We then moved onto the Semi-finals, where Simon took on Luke and Tom took on Frank in a Champions Tie-break (up to 10 points). Both matches were really close, but after a good battle in both Luke overcame Simon 10 – 8 and Tom, having been 6 -1 down, managed to secure the win against Frank by 11 – 9.
The format for the final was 2 Tie-break sets, followed by a Champions Tie-break, if required. In set 1 Luke pulled out an impressive 4 – 1 lead and went on to take the set 6 – 3. Although Luke got off to another good start in the second set, it was much closer. At 5 – 4 Luke served for the match and the game went to several deuces, with break points and match points coming and going in equal measure. In the end Luke took the set 6 – 4 and with it the match and the trophy.
A big thank you to all who entered, and hopefully enjoyed a rare afternoon of singles play. Thanks also to our scorer, Norma (ably assisted by Vanessa) and to the spectators Michelle and Jo, whose presence helped to make more of the event. It must also be said that a big thank you goes to Frank for bringing his wonderful home cooked chorizo sausages, which are an absolute delight.
Lots of pictures of the day, to show those present, as well as the 2 finalists with their trophies. A big well done to Luke, for winning the event on this his first entry into our club competitions.
