This year’s senior club championships sponsored by Hibernian City Bar and Grill
got off to a great start in lovely weather. First on court were Mary Nolan and Emer O'Keeffe. Emer had a great first set, winning 6-2, but Mary soon rediscovered her previous form to take the next two 6-1, 6-1.
In the men’s singles Gus Carey and Ivor O'Brien played some fine tennis despite a score showing Gus’ win 6-1, 6-2. The closest singles encounter on opening night was between Mary Crowley and Lexie Trait. Lexie took the first set in a tie-breaker but Mary fought back to take the next two sets 6-4, 6-2.
A new member showing great promise in the opening week was Brian Kenny in the men’s doubles. He teamed up with the vastly experienced Colm Culleton to defeat the strong pairing of Michael Nicholson and Gus Carey 6-4, 6-4. In the women’s doubles Bernie Halpin and Helen Fitzgerald had to go to a tie-breaker in the second set to overcome Maria Duggan and Jacqui O'Brien.
This week’s matches commence at the earlier time of 5.30pm. Match schedules are posted on the club website (www.kilkennytennisclub.com ) and on the clubhouse notice board. You can also phone 087 8645165.
Ireland’s Top Junior
Congratulations to Kilkenny junior Eoin McGovern, who had outstanding victories in the recent Irish Junior open boys under 14 singles and doubles at Fitzwilliam. Eoin didn’t drop a set on his way to the singles final, which he won by defeating Colin MacNamara 6-2, 6-3. He then teamed up with David Gardiner to win the boys’ under 14 doubles final 6-4, 6-1.
