Drizzling rain did not deter some hardy spectators on Finals Day and they were treated to quality tennis – particlarly in the Men’s Singles and Men’s Doubles Finals.
Adam Drysdale was hoping to repeat his triple success of last year, but unluckily for him, Ashtey Pauls was the other Men’s Singles Finalist. Despite the conditions, the two young men played some awesome tennis, but Ashtey coolly managed to produce his best tennis at key points to become Littleton Champion 2009 (6-4, 6-3)
In the Men’s Doubles Final, reigning champions Geoff Morris & Adam Drysdale had a tough battle against Wayne Barter & Phil Torkington. After three sets of first class entertaining doubles’ play, Geoff & Adam finally won through to retain their title. (7-5, 6-7, 6-3) In the meantime, it took only two sets for defending champions Elaine Mousley & Meriel Elford to win the Ladies’ Doubles’ trophy for the second time. Overall, Elaine & Meriel made fewer unforced errors than their lively opponents, Gill Baker & Sam Chainey.
The Social Mixed Doubles Final (an aptly named event as two of the finalists had social engagements which meant they couldn’t play their match in the afternoon as originally scheduled!)took place in the morning. It was a very closely contested match and it took Colin Rees & Beryl May two and a quarter hours and three sets to overcome the determined challenge put up by Colin Boag & Celia Harris (6-3,3-6,7-6)
In the Open Mixed Doubles Final (delayed until Sunday morning because of the rain) Adam Drysdale and Jane Hendry were keen to hold on to the trophy that they won last year. However, Wayne Barter & Gill Baker were both equally keen to regain the Mixed Doubles Champions’ title, which they have held several times throughout their successful pairing. The contest began very evenly, with fine rallies, a mixture of attacking and defensive play and exciting volley exchanges. The first set was decided on a tie break, but then the greater experience, calmer and more consistent play of Wayne & Gill enabled them to win the Mixed Doubles’ trophy, 7-6, 6-1.
Many thanks to all who took part – and special thanks to Jane Hendry & Derek Quirk for organising everything.
