[<<] [>>] by Hamish Hall at Budleigh Salterton
1-4 Sep 2005 (AC)

The Challenge and Gilbey regained its popularity returning, over subscribed, to Budleigh Salterton, where we noted a marked improvement in the standard of the courts since our previous tournament here two years ago.

Players unfortunate enough to meet Martin Stephenson (from Meadows, Edinburgh) in the Gilbey had few strokes, as he played beyond his handicap of 8, winning the quarter-, semi- and final rounds +26, +25 and +26 (with a bisque still standing!) David Magee had a single stroke once the balls were on the court - a 25-yard hit in was needed!

In the Challenge, Dick Knapp collected the Roehampton Cup, defeating David Magee in a single life final, whilst wife Mary Knapp won the Council Cup snatching victory from Ian Parkinson in an exciting game largely played in appalling conditions as the heavens opened. After Ian had gone to the peg, with a poor leave, Mary hit-in, and pegged him out. A brilliant hit-in enabled Ian to make 4-back, but a very ambitious stroke just failed by roquetting the ball he was attempting to rush. Thus Mary now has 2 cups to keep polished!

Alan Newman, whilst in America, persuaded John Kennedy from Beverley to enter this tournament, and doubtless he will be back next year to defend the Reckitt Cup, as he overcame Peggy Nutland in the final. And to the delight of the locals, Michael Hamilton ensured that the Stevenson Cup remained at Budleigh with his win over Sidmouth's Peter Miller.

Challenge Results

Knapp beat Magee +14 in the final