New season starts with traditional cup event

After a summer of practice, the members’ competitive instincts must have been straining to be unleashed as a record entry of19 players turned up to compete in the handicap team event, held in memory of former club stalwart David Eglinton.

With 19 not being the easiest number to shape into a team event, it gave a first class excuse for a bamboozling format, but the players buckled down with their usual mix of good sportsmanship and desire to win.

In the group containing four teams, Michael Hahn, Dave Beveridge and Neil Lea nudged out Ian Smith, Rob Brown and Jon Fraser to take their place in the final against Graham Wood and Sandy Pearson who emerged victorious from a group of three teams.

The final was closely contested. Graham’s last gasp win against Dave was cancelled out by Michael also beating Sandy.

With the doubles being pivotal, Graham and Sandy caught up from a big handicap deficit against Neil and Dave just in time to reach 20-20 and a sudden death: next point the winner situation.

Three careful shots opened up the rally before Dave offered up a prayer, went for a big forehand, and gained a huge win for his team.

Playing as the most heavily handicapped player on the night, Michael once again came from behind, and his win against Graham sealed a 3-1 victory for his team.

Clyde Johnson and Fabio Sani made up for their disappointment in being beaten to a final slot by finishing in third place with a win over Ian, Rob and Jon.