By BRUCE BLAKEMORE
2014 summer singles and doubles championships
WITH only two weeks to go in the qualifying rounds, the top six in each grade are almost set, with maybe the sixth position still open to several players.
In past series, spectators have witnessed the ultimate winner coming from the last qualifying spot as a blinder on finals night can reap big rewards.
A Grade Kye McDonald has incredibly maintained his number one ranking by remaining undefeated through six rounds. He is almost odds-on to take the trophy, however the group of big guns including Bill Brown, Roger Gore and Jordan Brown, that will be staring him down, come the finals, are proven past winners. Jordan has swept to the front in the doubles in recent weeks and will unlikely to be challenged. B Grade Steve Gardner has attracted the spotlight this season with the only blemish being a three-set loss to Kye who demonstrated the road upwards into A grade, despite it being a given at this stage, is a steep ride. However, the B grade trophy looks a certainty for Steve even though there will be staunch resistance from John Murphy, Bernhard Trauer, Eli Kalugin and Martyn Clarke. No surprise that Steve has found himself in the number one position in doubles also albeit a narrower one than the singles.
C Grade
Young Lucas Gore unfortunately may miss the finals due to a neck injury leaving C Grade somewhat wide open. Sunny Lidden though has recently found form and may upset the likes of Brad Muller and Matthew Duncan come finals night. Richard has strengthened his grip on the doubles trophy and the engraving could start now. Competition night is Wednesday from 7pm. and there is also a practice session on Monday nights from 7.15pm. Social groups meet three afternoons a week. All sessions are held at the Bicentennial centre Sunshine beach.
Call 5474 5526 for any further information.
