Competitions have returned to Dalbeattie Tennis Club after a two year absence.
The Burnside Rosebowl made a welcome return as 16 players competed for this long-standing trophy. Although clubhouse restrictions were still in place to a degree, the players enjoyed being back on court and getting back to playing competitive tennis in glorious sunshine.
The competition was a mixed doubles closed event draw for partner. Each partnership received a handicap based on their ability so there were no real favourites, resulting in probably the closest draw in years – making it difficult to predict any results.
Going through from group one on maximum points were Stevie White and Sally Campbell, who was playing in her first ever tennis competition. Runners-up also going through were, Keith Dempster who filled in at the very last minute, partnered by Jill Johnstone. In group two and going through on a maximum 18 points was the pairing of Colin Kennedy and Liz Dawson, with Graham Donnelly and Pam Lightfoot runners-up.
The semi-finals were extremely entertaining and with both going on at the same time, it was difficult at times to keep up with results as the matches progressed. After four hours of tennis it was Keith and Jill who proved too strong beating Colin and Liz comfortably in the end. The other semi was a closer result with Stevie and Sally just edging out Graham and Pam 6-3.
The final was brilliant advert for club tennis and those on the veranda and surrounding area were treated to a titanic tussle. At 5-5 it was a battle of nerves with the next game the decider. After several deuces it was Stevie and Sally who emerged as the 2021 champions. This was a popular result due to the fact Sally had won her first ever trophy.
President Keith Thom gave the vote of thanks and presented the trophies.
A special mention was given to 10-year-old Sam Donnelly who was competing in his first ever adult tournament and was paired with Catherine Cartner. They won one match and came close to victories in his other two matches. In recognition of his efforts, Sam was presented with a tube of training balls.
