County Open - Season 2007-2008 - 26/01/08

Treble winner, Carole with Ladies Doubles partner, Casey Sangster

A good group of competitors with varying ages congregated in Wick Games Hall to battle for trophies, gain extra experience and most importantly, enjoy the occasion.

One of the good sights was the amount of junior players - starting from the age of 13, who decided to play against some of the top 'A' team players and county stalwarts, showing no signs of nervousness, glad to see what they have to do to improve their skills and how to beat them, in the future.

Some might say, that the eventual trophy winners already had their names on the cups and, although this did end up being the result, they certainly didn't have it easy in each event.

Carole Mowat repeated her win of the Ladies Singles against last years opponent, Donna 'Goldie' Majilton and continued to lift the Ladies Doubles with Casey Sangster against youngsters, Michelle Cowie and Donna.  Michelle and Donna, notably, managed to reach the final by beating Pam Bain and Jane Grant, in a closely contested match - where the youngsters grabbed the win, in the final set and with a few points to spare.

John Durrand didn't have to strike a shuttle in the Mens Singles final - as his opponent, Stephen Hill picked up an injury in the warm up, forcing him to retire.

Treble winner, John Durrand (right) with Mens Doubles partner, Sam Campbell

Last seasons Mens doubles' winners, John and Sam Campbell were up against Ian Nicolson and Benji Mackay.  With the latter pairing managing to beat John and Sam in practice sessions, on numerous occasions, they were ready for this battle...!!!  But, this was the 'Big Time' and the more experienced partnership managed to prevail in two sets with Ian and Benji coming off the court wondering what they did wrong in a tough tie.

John and Carole, rather fittingly, ended the days events by partnering and winning the Mixed Doubles event to both complete the treble.

Once again, congratulations to everyone - especially the juniors for their excellent efforts.

Oh aye, just for the Archives...  Ratter was unable to play because of a sore ankle - or, something similar...

Results

• Ladies Singles - Carole Mowat
• Mens Singles - John Durrand
• Ladies Doubles - Carole Mowat & Casey Sangster
• Mens Doubles - John Durrand & Sam Campbell
• Mixed Doubles - John Durrand & Carole Mowat

End-of-Document