Closed Tennis Tournament 2020

The Rye LTC Closed Tournament, for members only, kicked off on Saturday 15th August in damp and dismal conditions. By late morning, however, the competitors were able to take to the club’s grass courts, in great condition as always thanks to the hard work of groundsman Adam Stunt. While entry in the ladies’ section was disappointing, there was a good turnout in both the men’s and junior groups and the day saw some competitive and entertaining tennis.

In the men’s singles, Mark Hadley – three times Rye Open Tournament singles champion – powered his way to victory over club board member Michael Gradon. The pair then joined forces to take on Gradon’s fellow director Freddie Menzies, playing alongside former Closed winner Scott Brotherton, in a hard-hitting final which saw Hadley once again the winner. In the ladies’ draw, Vicki Lowe also gained a double victory, overcoming Amanda Hoffman in a tight singles final before being joined by Heather Mott to win the doubles against Fran Sharp and Emma Merrifield.

The junior section also saw two wins for Ollie Bearcroft, who came through the victor in a close final against Hugo Tuil before teaming up with Isak Dobson to take the junior doubles. Earlier Ollie and Isak, who also competed in the men’s event, gained valuable experience in match play when they came up against Mark Hadley and Michael Gradon and gave it their all.

After last year’s cancellation of the Closed Tournament, due to gale force winds, members were delighted to be able to take part in the event again and play continued into the early evening. Thanks to Charles McDonald for running the event.