The Hardcourt Singles League, kindly sponsored once again for another year by Honda Motors Kilkenny, came to a satisfactory conclusion on Saturday evening. Thankfully we were spared the inclement conditions of the last few days, so that the finalists could give the excellent new courts a thorough test.
In the tussle for the premier event of the evening, we had an impressive display of tennis to decide the destination of The Justin Wall Perpetual Trophy. Originally presented in 1974, there are some notable names inscribed on the trophy from the past, who progressed to even more success. It was fitting therefore, that this year’s event lived up to its history. As for the match itself, John Dempsey laid down the gauntlet in seizing the first set. However, his opponent Tom Brennan stormed back in the penultimate set, to even the game, and the destination of the trophy had to be decided in the final set. Brennan seemed to have more in reserve and ensured success in a score of 2/6, 6/1, 6/2.
In Grade B,Larry Kinsella proved his stature in taking the title, at the expense of Paul Tallis. The score of 6/3 6/1 would appear to be a facile one, but Larry had to utilise all his skill and stamina in disposing of the sterling performance produced by Paul Tallis.
Gus Carey put in an impressive performance in Grade C, at the expense of Ed Brennan, in a score of 6/2 6/3. Gus has put in quite an amount of work in improving his game and it certainly has produced dividends, having been victorious in all of his matches in this grade. Ed Brennan also would appear to be progressing to better places, having only lost one match, albeit against us.
Mary Verling is now well equipped to serve pre-dinner cocktails, having won the ladies singles silver tray, in Grade A. Mary’s experience proved to be the telling factor in her bid to overcome Emer O’Keeffe, by virtue of her victory in a score of 6/1 6/2. However, Emer has shown considerable promise in reaching the final of such a prestigious event.
In Grade B, there was a titanic struggle, as Bernie Kavanagh took the title, at the expense of Bernie Halpin. This certainly was an exciting affair, as Bernie Halpin proved her ability to withstand the sterling opposition of the Bagenalstown representative. A break of service separated the two players in the opening set; while a tiebreak was necessary to give Bernie Kavanagh the title.
In Grade C, a three-set marathon took place to decide the issue. Caroline Loughrey took the opening set in fine fashion. Meanwhile, in the penultimate set, the match was set alight with a tiebreak, in favour of Ann Marie Brennan. The final set was equally thrilling as Ann Marie seized the break of service, to take the title – final score 2/6 7/6 6/4 – and bring the curtain down in a fitting manner.
The Inter Firms Tournament. Once again, Caulfield’s of Loughboy is generously sponsoring the event. As in other years, this is a team event in a number of grades. This year’s tournament takes place from Monday, May 11 to Saturday, May 23. Entry forms are available in the club and they should be submitted by May 4. For further information, please telephone Rena O’Connor at (056 ) 7752720 or (086 ) 3060449. The club is, in addition, hosting a lavish social programme, in association with the event. The barbecue on Friday May 15 has become a traditional constituent of the tournament and, as always, has proved to be popular.
This Friday (tonight ), there is a special tournament in aid of The Loreto School.
