Saturday 31 December 2011

JUNIOR BADMINTON

FOLLOWING a resounding away win over a weakened Avon County, in November, the Cornwall Youth Badminton Under-13 Team, sponsored by Dairy Crest Davidstow, producers of Cornish Cathedral City Cheese, came back down to earth, when they entertained Devon - going down by 24 rubbers to 12, in the South West Counties Junior Badminton League Fixture.

In an absorbing encounter, played at Truro School, on December 18, the experience of the Visiting Outfit shone through, with the Devon cream seen to rise to the top, writes John Tresidder, with Kerry Sillifant.

The Visitors’ selected a very strong contingent of Boys, especially but their Cornish opponents went down, pluckily, in all the six rubbers. Truro’s Tim Wyatt, went the closest, before losing, 22-20, 15-21, 23-21.

The Host’s Girls fared much better, harvesting 4/6 singles rubbers, with their Polly Morris and Flossie Cameron-Webb, both securing victories in a deciding third end of play.

Therefore, Devon led 8-4, following the opening singles events, which are always seen to be of a paramount importance, psychologically.

The Boys’ Doubles rubbers saw the Tyler Sillifant/Ollie Cavil partnership winning the Duchy’s sole match - against the Devon number thee pair, with Devon securing five rubbers out of six and remaining dominant throughout.

However, the Danny Alford/Charlie Newman partnership were seen to go to three exciting games against the Visitors No, 3 team, before going down, narrowly, 21-19, 18-21, 21-18.

Duchy Girls fared better:

In the Girls’ Doubles, Kernow fared much better, winning 6/9 rubbers, with strong performances from the Beth Rutter/Sarah Frost and Polly Morrris/Cara Thompson combinations, with Amy Polglase and Flossie Cameron-Webb, taking all of their matches in two straight ends of play.

The Mixed Doubles Events, which acted as the culmination, saw the Devon Boys’ strength and experience coming to the fore, once more, to help win five events, with the Duchy’s Tyler Sillifant and Amy Polglase picking up the number one mixed in three games.

Congratulations are due to Sam Tucker, who gained his first Cornwall County cap.

Finally, the Cornwall Under-13’s hope to return to winning ways, when they take on Somerset, at Truro School, on Sunday, January 29, starting at 12.00 noon.

Team co-captains: Tyler Sillifant and Amy Polglase.

Team co-managers: Kerry Sillifant and John Polglase.

Amy and Kellen, aged 12 and 13, respectively, making debut appearances in Under-21 Badminton Champs:

MEANWHILE, the Cornwall Under-21 Badminton Championships, 2011/2012, are being staged at the Tregorrick Parc, St. Austell Rugby Club Sports Hall - tomorrow (Monday, January 2).

Singles, Doubles and Mixed Doubles, five disciplines, in total, are on the full programme-of-play, which gets underway at 9.00 am, with supporters and spectators being most welcome, as usual.

Johanna Philp, aged 18, a Midwifery student at Truro College and Ross Lashbrook - who turn out for the Cornwall Chiefs - will be defending their blue ribband singles titles.

Camborne Science College badminton stars, Amy Polglase and Kellen Moore, aged 12 and 13, respectively, coached by Clif Morcom (Redruth), are both making debut appearances in the Championships.

After playing their beloved sport for two years, only, this U-21 Event will prove invaluable in the Girls' remarkable development, including for Miss Polglase installed recently, as the BADMINTON England No 8, in Girls' Under-13 Singles.

DEVON CREAM RISES TO THE TOP - OVER CORNISH NEIGHBOURS

FOLLOWING a resounding away win over a weakened Avon County, in November, the Cornwall Youth Badminton Under-13 Team, sponsored by Dairy Crest Davidstow, producers of Cornish Cathedral City Cheese, came back down to earth, when they entertained Devon - going down by 24 rubbers to 12, in the South West Counties Junior Badminton League Fixture.

In an absorbing encounter, played at Truro School, on December 18, the experience of the Visiting Outfit shone through, with the Devon cream seen to rise to the top, writes John Tresidder, with Kerry Sillifant.

The Visitors’ selected a very strong contingent of Boys, especially but their Cornish opponents went down, pluckily, in all the six rubbers. Truro’s Tim Wyatt, went the closest, before losing, 22-20, 15-21, 23-21.

The Host’s Girls fared much better, harvesting 4/6 singles rubbers, with their Polly Morris and Flossie Cameron-Webb, both securing victories in a deciding third end of play.

Therefore, Devon led 8-4, following the opening singles events, which are always seen to be of a paramount importance, psychologically.

The Boys’ Doubles rubbers saw the Tyler Sillifant/Ollie Cavil partnership winning the Duchy’s sole match - against the Devon number thee pair, with Devon securing five rubbers out of six and remaining dominant throughout.

However, the Danny Alford/Charlie Newman partnership were seen to go to three exciting games against the Visitors No, 3 team, before going down, narrowly, 21-19, 18-21, 21-18.

Duchy Girls fared better:

In the Girls’ Doubles, Kernow fared much better, winning 6/9 rubbers, with strong performances from the Beth Rutter/Sarah Frost and Polly Morrris/Cara Thompson combinations, with Amy Polglase and Flossie Cameron-Webb, taking all of their matches in two straight ends of play.

The Mixed Doubles Events, which acted as the culmination, saw the Devon Boys’ strength and experience coming to the fore, once more, to help win five events, with the Duchy’s Tyler Sillifant and Amy Polglase picking up the number one mixed in three games.

Congratulations are due to Sam Tucker, who gained his first Cornwall County cap.

Finally, the Cornwall Under-13’s hope to return to winning ways, when they take on Somerset, at Truro School, on Sunday, January 29, starting at 12.00 noon.

Team co-captains: Tyler Sillifant and Amy Polglase.

Team co-managers: Kerry Sillifant and John Polglase.

Amy and Kellen, aged 12 and 13, respectively, making debut appearances in Under-21 Badminton Champs:

MEANWHILE, the Cornwall Under-21 Badminton Championships, 2011/2012, are being staged at the Tregorrick Parc, St. Austell Rugby Club Sports Hall - tomorrow (Monday, January 2).

Singles, Doubles and Mixed Doubles, five disciplines, in total, are on the full programme-of-play, which gets underway at 9.00 am, with supporters and spectators being most welcome, as usual.

Johanna Philp, aged 18, a Midwifery student at Truro College and Ross Lashbrook - who turn out for the Cornwall Chiefs - will be defending their blue ribband singles titles.

Camborne Science College badminton stars, Amy Polglase and Kellen Moore, aged 12 and 13, respectively, coached by Clif Morcom (Redruth), are both making debut appearances in the Championships.

After playing their beloved sport for two years, only, this U-21 Event will prove invaluable in the Girls' remarkable development, including for Miss Polglase installed recently, as the BADMINTON England No 8, in Girls' Under-13 Singles.

Monday 19 December 2011

GREAT WIN FOR CORNWALL

Cornwall’s best badminton players took on Berkshire, who had made the long journey west, sitting at the top of the Division 3 league last Sunday.

This proved a tense, exciting clash of two talented sides battling for supremacy at the halfway stage of the season which kept the crowd enthralled throughout the afternoon.

Cornwall made a dominant start in the singles to make it 3-1, after Shane Maton, James Whetter and Jo Philp played superbly to see off their opponents, and Bronwen Wotton just losing to a mobile, tricky Berks player.

The Cornish men kept the winning theme going as the established pair of James and Guy Michell powered their way to 2 victories, and Tom Lyle and Ross Lashbrook winning one of their games in fine style before succumbing unluckily to the first mens pair.

The Duchy’s ladies were up against it, as Berkshire took 3 of the 4 games, although Jo and Emily James did extremely well to beat the first pair in 3 very close ends, and Bronwen and Vicki Thomas came agonisingly close to winning against the 2nd pair, in a nail-biting 3 ender.

So with the match score at 7-5, Cornwall needed just the one mixed doubles for victory. The watching crowd became more and more tense as Berkshire took 2 of the games to tie the score, and it came down to Cornwall’s top mixed pair, James and Jo to win for the team. This they did, of course, in 3 ends much to everyone’s relief and gratitude – a great win for Cornwall 8-7.

This outcome makes the teams tied on top of the Division going into the Christmas break, and makes the second half of the season a mouth-watering prospect.

Team – Shane Maton, James Whetter, Guy Michell, Tom Lyle, Ross Lashbrook, Jo Philp, Bronwen Wotton, Emily James, Vicki Thomas.

Thursday 8 December 2011

BADMINTON BACK IN FOCUS FOR CORNWALL’S COURTS



A BADMINTON England Initiative, underway and a local rallying call, of support, from Emma Austin, the Regional Badminton Officer for Cornwall & West Devon:

A QUESTION … What do 4.4 million adults across England meet up to do each year to keep fit, healthy, active all while putting a smile on their face, writes Emma Austin.

The Olympic sport of badminton of course!

For some, playing badminton may still conjure up nostalgic thoughts of playing at school in a cold sports hall or played with the family in the back garden, using the washing line as a make shift net.

Badminton may well be still considered that low cost, traditional garden sport that anyone can swing a racket for enjoyment in, but it is a little known fact that more people in England now play badminton than cricket, hockey, rugby union and rugby league put together!

Move up the competitive ladder and it’s also the fastest racket sport on the planet with the shuttlecock flying around at over 420 km – that’s faster than an F1 car!

It is little wonder that, each week, well over 1/2-million adults head onto the 23,000 plus badminton courts across England - be they in leisure centres, sports venues, schools or community halls - to put their racket skills on show.

With such an impressive stat, it is easy to see why badminton is the 6th most popular and frequently played sport in the country - and is no surprise that there is an active badminton club scene in every county.

Within Cornwall alone, there are a host of fantastic badminton clubs, thriving at both senior and junior levels, which open their doors wide to welcome new players of any age or on court ability.

Yet the numbers of people playing in clubs both for fun and competition across the county do not stack up to the national statistics. For every one club in Cornwall there are five in Devon and it’s starting to have an impact on how the county competes at a local level.

Despite, a hugely sociable affiliated club network and an army of local volunteers offering coaching opportunities, there are fewer players taking part in regular, organised badminton in Cornwall www.cornwallbadminton.co.uk and some clubs are even finding it hard to fulfil local East and West Cornwall League commitments, with female club members a particular issue of concern.

For badminton to grow across the county, attracting new adults onto Cornwall’s low cost courts in organised badminton activity is a priority – and BADMINTON England, the sport’s governing body www.badmintonengland.co.uk are committed to heading up the charge, led locally by Emma Austin, the county’s regional officer.

Speaking of her priorities in supporting Cornwall Badminton,
back on the badminton map, Ms. Austin, who also looks after activity in West Devon, said: “Securing a successful future within Cornwall needs the competitive badminton infrastructure to be supported, for all ability levels.”

Recreational players, who enjoy regular, social badminton with friends or work colleagues are the ideal candidates to join into local clubs and put their talents to the test in some team league badminton. The all new web portal at www.playbadminton.co.uk would be the perfect place to start.

Alternatively, current social groups with a regular player base, could affiliate as a club and enter the East and West Cornwall Leagues.

And for those not quite ready to step up and play competitively where points make prizes at the end of each season, there are now a host of extremely sociable court time initiatives springing up across Cornwall to get adults onto court.

Look out for No Strings Badminton, a national programme with over 260 venues and five major leisure chains involved, offering low cost pay and play sessions at times that actually suit busy lifestyles.

“With No Strings Badminton we’re taking away a lot of usual barriers when it comes to getting back involved in sport. There’s a guaranteed playing partner at every session in Cornwall so you are always assured of a game and you can just turn up, there’s no need to book,” continued Ms. Austin.

She then added: “With five leisure centres – in Helston, Newquay, Truro, Polkyth and Falmouth – all now courting No Strings Badminton sessions at various times and plenty of other sessions due to be announced in the New Year, the BADMINTON England Initiative, launched in February, 2011, is certainly taking off in Cornwall County.”

Details can be found by visiting the official website : www.nostringsbadminton.co.uk

Badminton is a fantastic sport for all – at whatever level, it is a game for life. So, why not give it a go in 2012 and see what all the fuss is about!

Emma Austin, Regional Badminton Officer – Cornwall & West Devon, emmaaustin@badmintonengland.co.uk


ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Available No Strings Programmes, currently:
· Helston Sports Centre – Wednesdays 7.30-8.30pm
· Newquay Sports centre – Fridays 7-8pm and 8-9pm
· Truro Leisure Centre – Fridays 7-8pm and 8-9pm
· Polkyth Leisure Centre – Sundays 10-11am and 11-12noon
· Dracaena Centre, Falmouth – Sundays 10am-12noon

No Strings Programmes for the New Year, 2012:
· Falmouth School
· Fowey Community Leisure Centre
· Wadebride Leisure Centre
· Lux Park Leisure Centre, Liskeard
· Phoenix Leisure Centre, Launceston
· Budehaven Community Leisure Centre

JOHN TRESIDDER, the Cornwall Badminton Publicity Consultant, welcomed BADMINTON England’s Initiative, on-going, together with Emma Austin’s rallying call of support locally and added:

“I have taken part in a number of sports and was a county schools’ sprinter, but badminton, one of the World’s most popular participant sports, is the one that I love the most.

“We are an exhilarating sport, where athleticism, poise and balance is allied closely to fine touch and power. In addition, in a rubber of singles badminton, which goes to a deciding third game, a player travels farther, in a match, than in any other sport, apart from ice-hockey.

“I feel our great sport, comprising a game of aerial rallies, in effect - unlike tennis, table tennis and squash, all good sports, as well, who have the luxury of a bounce - has the potential to be very popular at club and league level.

“Indeed, I discovered, fairly early on, that a badminton club affords great camaraderie and where one can bid for selection to a representative team in the league, with organised pathways in to Cornwall Youth Badminton (CYB), as well as senior county and international level badminton. Inter-Club “Friendlies”, are also a consideration for those not so ambitious, when starting out.

“Do give us a try in 2012, the Olympic Year, when one can help run the XMAS pudding off!”

Emma Austin and John Tresidder.

Monday 5 December 2011

CORNWALL 1 V SOMERSET



Cornwall’s top badminton team maintained their winning ways, with an excellent home victory over the visiting Somerset team at Polkyth last Sunday (4th December), 11-4, gaining maximum points and moving them to second in the league behind the powerful Berkshire side, who they play next on 18th December.

All four Cornish singles players won, giving a fantastic 4-0 start to the match, 3 of the games going to the wire, with Shane Maton, Jo Philp and Bronwen Wotton being victorious in three close ends, and James Whetter taking his game comfortably in two.

James teamed up once again with Guy Michell to power their way through both mens doubles, equalled by the newer pairing of Shane and Ross Lashbrook Both pairs looked impressively invincible and the Somerset boys had no answer to the attacking badminton on display.

Cornwall’s ladies doubles players were up against some experienced Somerset girls, who proved too strong for Jo and Rachel Irish, although Bron and Vicki Thomas faired better by just taking an exciting 3 ender against the second Somerset pair, saving match points along the way to the delight of the partisan crowd. Bron and Vicki were unlucky not to push the first pair all the way in their other game.

The match score stood at 9-3 going into the mixed doubles – Cornwall having won the match but needing one more game to secure maximum points. All three games went to three ends to keep the watchers on edge, but James and Jo, and Guy and Rachel won through, and Ross and Bron were very unlucky to miss out on winning a fine close game.

Congratulations to Shane, James and Guy on their 100% performance, and well done to the whole team for a thrilling result. All spectators are welcome to the final game before Christmas, a potential top of the table clash with Berkshire at Polkyth on 18th December at 1pm.

Under 13's Cornwall v Avon


The jubilant Cornwall Youth Badminton Under-13 Team, sponsored by Dairy Crest Davidstow, after defeating Avon County, by 35 rubbers to 1.

Cornwalls Under 13 Badminton team made the long journey to Avon on Sunday 13th November for their first match of the season.

The team of 6 boys and 6 girls made a fantastic start taking all but one of the singles games, Avon put up a fight but the determination of the Cornish youngsters paid off and they went on to win the remainder of all the doubles and mixed doubles games to take a 35-1 victory.

Good performances from the Boys Captain Tyler Sillifant and the Girls Captain Amy Polglase who both won their matches in 2 ends not allowing the opposition into double figures
In the girls singles Cara Thompson held her nerve going into a third end which she then won comfortably 21-7

Avon were unable to field a full team of girls so they played 3 players from the girls under 15’s. Beth Sarah and Polly played these singles matches and won them a fantastic achievement. Beth went to 3 ends in her match and showed true determination and focus to emerge victorious after taking the final end 21-18.

Newcomers Flossie Cameron Webb and Charlie Newman were paired with Amy Polglase and Tyler Sillifant respectively for their level doubles games and the new partnerships proved successful as they won all of their doubles games in 2 ends

Danny Alford and Tim Wyatt both in their debuts for Cornwall Successfully won all of their doubles matches again in 2 ends.

There was a nail-biting 3 ender in the boys doubles between Cornwall’s number 3 pair and Avon’s number 1’s but the committed doubles play of Mark Pearson and Ollie Cavil saw them take the 2nd end 24-22 and then storm to victory in the 3rd end winning 21-10

Going into the mixed doubles Cornwall had already won the match but that didn’t stop the Cornish youngsters going out and taking all the mixed matches in two ends,

A Fantastic victory for the Cornish team and a great start to the season.

Boys team: Tyler Sillifant (capt), Charlie Newman, Tim Wyatt, Danny Alford, Ollie Cavil and Mark Pearson.
Girls Team: Amy Polglase (capt), Cara Thompson, Polly Morris, Flossie Cameron-Webb, Beth Rutter and Sarah Frost

Avon Boys: James Eastland, Thomas Watkins, Ian Dafilmoto, Paul Mc Crimmond, Patrick Foley, Susan Canagarason
Avon Girls: Lucy Gorham, Abi Kemp, Amea Feron, Ellie Lewis, Eleanor Beasley, Amy Wilson

U21 Closed Championships

The CCBA 2011/12 Under 21 County Championships will be held at Polkyth Leisure Centre, St Austell on Monday 2nd January 2012. Entry forms can be downloaded HERE , or from the download section to the right.

WALL U13 BADMINTON ENGLAND SILVER TOURNAMENT

Cornwall Youth Badminton hosted the Counties first National Graded Silver Junior Badminton Tournament at Penryn College on Saturday 3rd December.

The Event was run solely by the Counties U17 Squad players with the young players taking responsibility for the match scheduling, scoring and smooth running of the day.
Nearly 40 players travelling from as far as Worcester down through Dorset,Somerset, Devon and Cornwall arrived at the College for a 9am start. There were 71 entries into the four disciplines of Boys and Girls Singles and Doubles.

The Boys Singles started with some clinical play in the group stages by David Higbee (Dorset) and Cornwalls own Tyler Sillifant (Launceston).
The group winners won through to the semi finals but Tyler had to overcome a very talented Callum Cheung (Devon) in an epic quarter final match, winning a nail biting, exhausting match 17-15,12-15,15-12. This led to Tyler taking on David Higbee who won through to the final 15-6,15,10.
In the other half of the draw, Tom Reddaway (Somerset) defeated Lloyd Skinner (Devon) to take on Higbee in a great final. David Higbee ran out a worthy winner in 3 long ends 15-10, 14-16,15-6.
Medals were presented By Emma Austin Cornwall and West Devon Badminton England Regional Officer. GOLD-David Higbee, SILVER-Tom Reddaway, BRONZE Tyler Sillifant and Lloyd Skinner.

The Girls Doubles in Two boxes produced an all Devon Final between Bronya Pike and Robyn Bowman against Lucy Cooper and Katherine Brown. Pike and Bowman running out worthy winners 15-6 and a close run second end 16-14.
Medals were presented by Emma Austin. GOLD-Bronya Pike and Robyn Bowman. SILVER-Lucy Cooper and Katherine Brown.

Moving onto the Girls singles and Cornwalls Amy Polglase (Camborne) stormed through her group into the semi-finals to meet Devons Robyn Bowman. Amy proving too strong running out a 15-3,15-3 winner.
In the bottom half of the draw a semi-final between Chloe Cosgrove (Worcs) and Devons Bronya Pike was a hard fought first end going to Bronya 15-10.In the second end long rallies took their toll on Chloe and Bronya ran out the winner 15-5.
The final went to Amy who played a consistent, patient game ,taking the match in two straight ends 15-6,15-8. Amy becoming the first Cornish winner of a Silver graded Tournament held in the County.
Medals were presented by Kerry Sillifant Cornwall U13 Team Manager.

GOLD-Amy Polglase. SILVER-Bronya Pike. BRONZE-Chloe Cosgrove and Robyn Bowman.

The Boys Doubles had two boxes and the winners that came through fought a very tense and competitive final. The badminton was of a very high standard and the pairings of Tyler Sillifant and Lloyd Skinner matched their opponents attacking play with some great technique and tactical awareness. However worthy winners Callum Cheung and his partner Tom Seah (Devon) took the match 15-11,15-13. A great match to finish a great days badminton.
Medals were again presented by Kerry Sillifant,

GOLD-Callum Cheung and Tom Seah, SILVER-Tyler Sillifant and Lloyd Skinner.

Tournament Referee was Cathryn Bick Cornwall U15 Team Manager.

Cornwall Youth Badminton wish to thank their main sponsors DAIRY CREST DAVIDSTOW for supplying some great raffle prizes. Thanks also go to TAG Sports for raffle donations, Penryn College for the use of their 6 court hall and the cafeteria, Emma Austin for attending and supporting the event and the following –players from the Cornwall U17 County squad who took responsibility for the smooth running of the Tournament; Hannah Robertson, Rachael Collard, Ruth Barnicoat,Simon Cox, Hester Luke, Jake Brazewell , and William Bick.

Wednesday 19 October 2011

Bonanza of Badminton at Penryn



Penryn College’s purpose built badminton hall was full of enthusiastic players from all over Cornwall, and Plymouth, at the weekend – over 70 social and league competitors had a great day’s badminton in the latest tournament promoted by Cornwall Badminton Association.

The idea of Bonanzas is to bring together those who play both sociably and in leagues, to widen their experience and for a day of badminton against new opponents, and Saturday’s event was a big success, judging from the tired but happy faces leaving the hall, asking when the next one would be.

All funds raised from the tournament will go towards the Association’s aim of developing more community league badminton across Cornwall, and to help new clubs to grow.

Winners and Runners up in the various categories were –

Mens Social Singles – Dominic Thomas, runner up Martin Penney
Mens League Singles – Ryan Lambourne, runner up Paul Lydon
Ladies Social Singles – Judit Matyas, runner up Talwyn Craddock
Ladies League Singles – Catherine Harrison
Mens Social Doubles – Keith Wingett/Sei Jip Wong, runners up Phil Eagles/Oliver Fernandes
Mens League Doubles – Russell Hallett/Jeremy Roberts, runners up Paul Lydon/Sim Tak Yau

Ladies Social Doubles – Alison Turpie/Dee Frost, runners up Sarah Catterall/Lynn Jones
Ladies League Doubles – Celia Hillman/Pat Edwards, runners up Rachel Newlands/Sarah Glister
Mixed Social Doubles – Sei Jip Wong/Stephanie Phillips, runners up Andrew Daniell/Judit Matyas
Mixed League Doubles – Jamie Dunn/Julie Edwards, runners up Ryan Lambourne/Waine Parker

Saturday 15 October 2011

CORNWALL JUNIOR BADMINTON

FOUR MAJOR EVENTS IN THE DUCHY WITHIN A MONTH.

THE Annual Kerrier Junior Badminton Tournament, is being staged at the Truro School Sports Hall, Trennick Hill, Truro, on this Sunday, October 16.
The Event is being organised by the First Edition Junior Badminton Club, from Cornwall College, Pool, Near Redruth, sponsored by the Redruth Charity Trust, writes John Tresidder.

The Under-13’s have attracted an excellent entry of 68, from the South West Counties, including Cornwall, the host, with player registration at 9.30 am., prompt, with the singles matches getting away very soon afterwards.
Alan Williams, EBA, Mr. Cornwall Badminton, is the Tournament Secretary, with Alison Williams, acting as the Referee.

Supporters and spectators will be most welcome, with refreshments available.
Meanwhile, the Kerrier Junior U-15 and U-17 Events, are scheduled for Truro School, on Saturday and Sunday, November, 5/6, respectively. (Mr. Williams contact number: 01209 - 712 626).

Furthermore, on February 11, 2012, Mr. Williams is the Tournament Secretary for another BADMINTON England Bronze Under-15 Event, scheduled for Truro School, as well.

A most successful England Bronze Event, held at Saltash, with three youngsters recording a brace of wins and presented with gold medals for their efforts:
Meanwhile, Yesterday Week (Saturday, October 8), a very successful BADMINTON England Bronze Under-15 Tournament, was staged, at the Saltash Community College, Wearde Road, Saltash, for the first time.

Cornwall Youth Badminton, sponsored by Dairy Crest Davidstow, makers of the Cornwall Cathedral City Cheese, organised the proceedings, with over forty keen youngsters seen to contest the Singles, Doubles and Mixed Doubles Events, totalling five disciplines, on the Programme-of-events.
Play, throughout the day, was seen to be competitive, with camaraderie, to the fore, as usual.

Devon’s Lauren Theedom, whose general form has come on leaps and bounds over the past year, along with Joe Killoran, her county compatriot and Kyle Jones, from Yorkshire, all harvested a magnificent brace of victories, apiece and became proud recipients of England gold medals, for their sterling efforts
Meanwhile the Duchy’s Amy Polglase, Kellen Moore, Liam Sillifant (Brace), Ruth Barnicoat and William Bick were delighted to win England silver medals, in respect of finishing in the runner-up berth, in their events, respectively.
Sue Cooper, was the Referee, with Jenny Marchant, Chairman of Cornwall Youth Badminton (CYB), the Tournament Secretary.

Mrs Marchant expressed her grateful thanks to the following:
Alice Sporik, for signing everyone in and calling players to the bench; Sam Julian for shuttle control; Georgia Higgs and her friend from Wiltshire. Emma MacDonald, for filling in the results sheets and keeping the play moving; Chris Cooper for filling the results sheets in, in the Gymnasium.
Also, to Kerry Sillifant, her Husband and Mother, for organising refreshments and to Liz Laity and Cath Bick for running the raffle.
Finally, to Graham Drewey, the Site Manager at Saltash Community College, in respect of his co-operation and organisation on the excellent Day’s proceedings.

FULL RESULTS – FINALS:
Winners: Gold medals and Runners-up: Silver medals.
Girls’ Singles:
Lauren Theedom (Devon) bt. Amy Polglase (Cornwall), 21-15.
Bronze medal: Lia Willis, Hampshire.

Boys’ Singles:
Joe Killoran (Devon) bt. Mac Powell (Devon), 21-15.
Bronze medals: Kyle Jones (Yorkshire) William Fryer (Devon).

Girls’ Doubles:
Winners: Lauren Theedom and Victoria Prouse (both Devon);
Runners-up: Amy Polglase and Kellen Moore (both Cornwall).

Boys’ Doubles:
Joe Killoran (Devon) and Kyle Jones (Yorkshire), bt. Liam Sillifant and
William Bick (both Cornwall), 23-21.
Bronze medals: Tommy Bridger and David Higbee (both Dorset).

Mixed Doubles:
Kyle Jones and Amy Jones, brother/sister (both Yorkshire)
bt. Liam Sillifant and Ruth Barnicoat (both Cornwall), 21-16
Bronze medals: Alastair Prades and Isobel Hampton (both Devon),
Gary McDonald and Lia Willis (Wiltshire/Hampshire).

Friday 14 October 2011

CORNWALL BADMINTON CHAMPIONSHIPS 2011



OVER 60 players from all parts of Cornwall, including an excellent turn out from Cornwall Youth Badminton, sponsored by Dairy Crest Davidstow, took part in two days of top quality badminton, in the Cornwall Senior “Closed” Badminton Championships, 2011/2012, held at Polkyth Leisure Centre, St. Austell, on the Weekend of September 24/25 and appreciated by supporters from far and wide, writes Sue Biscoe, with John Tresidder.

Many exciting games produced some surprise results, especially in the Weekend’ opener, the Men’s Singles, won by new champion, Callington’s Shane Maton, aged 22, from the Liskeard Club, for the first time.

Shane, in the semi-finals, accounted for defending champion, Kelvin Edwards, the Duchy’s senior coach, while Ross Lashbrook, the runner-up, had narrowly beaten Josh Pearce, who had accounted for the 2nd seed, James Whetter, in a closely fought battle in the quarter finals.

The final proved to be another close 3-ender, with both players digging deep, until Shane’s speed and fitness won the day 21-14, 19-21, 21-16, over the plucky Ross.

Next up, the Ladies’ Singles, held fewer shocks, with defending champion Johanna Philp, winning the final against number two seed, Emily James and successfully defending her crown, 21-14, 21-13.

Meanwhile, a large entry in the Men’s Doubles, eventually resulted in a narrow victory in the semi-finals for the Plymouth Marjons’ Outfit, of Ross Lashbrook and Tom Lyle, over Shane Maton and Dave Harrington, to meet the defending champions, James Whetter and Guy Michell (St. Austell Bay), who were seen to retain their title, in an absorbing three games of attacking doubles. And, the Duchy number pairing’s excellent win, came on top of their registering the Men’s “Plate” at the Open.

Vicky’s 1st County Senior Title:

The corresponding Ladies’ Doubles event threw up another surprise, when the new pairing of Emily James and Vicky Thomas (Falmouth/St. Just) - the winners in the Duchy Open “Plate”, 2011 - met Jo Philp and Rachel Irish, the established pair, defending their title of the last few years.
This final really had the crowd going, with the match see-sawing one way and another, before Emily and Vicky just triumphed in the third end, 22-20.
Indeed, for Vicky, based in St. Just, a Science Teacher at the Bolitho School, Penzance and a former Cornwall Schools’ player, this trophy win was the culmination of seven pleasing days of badminton.
The last event, on the first day, the Mixed Doubles, saw Guy Michell and Rachel Irish accounting for the number two seeds, Kelvin Edwards and Emily James, and reaching the final, to play the number one pair of James Whetter and Jo Philp, and despite some spectacular badminton, just failed to take the match from the champions, who won in two close ends.

Jo’s remarkable opening to the new campaign:

Finally, the popular Jo Philp, aged 18 and a Truro College Midwifery Student, from Port Isaac, experienced a remarkable start to the new season: Over eight days, including in the 29th Duchy “Open”, held at Carn Brea Leisure Centre, the week before (September 17/18), she reached one semi-final and four finals, winning two of them. Well done, Jo and best wishes for the Cornish Chiefs’ new Inter-County Season, which gets underway, inOctober – away to Avon 3, followed by an away fixture against Guernsey, The Channel Island, on Saturday November 5.

Results

Mens Singles
Semi finals:
S.Maton beat K.Edwards 21-17, 21-17.
R.Lashbrook beat J.Pearce 15-21, 23-21, 21-19.
Final – Maton beat Lashbrook 21-14, 19-21, 21-16.

Ladies Singles
Semi finals: J.Philp beat R.Collard 21-16, 21-9.
E.James beat Abi Logg 15-21, 21-13, 21-15.
Final – Philp beat James 21-14, 21-13.

Mens Doubles
Semi finals:
J.Whetter/G.Michell beat J.Cooper/S.Rider 21-13, 21-13.
T.Lyle/R.Lashbrook beat S.Maton/D.Harrington 21-12, 18-21, 21-18.
Final - Whetter/Michell beat Lyle/Lashbrook 21-15, 19-21, 21-14.

Ladies Doubles
Semi finals:
J.Philp/R.Irish beat A.Logg/L.Riggs 21-15, 21-10.
E.James/V.Irish beat B.Rich/R.Wotton 21-12, 21-14.
Final – James/Thomas beat Philp/Irish 16-21, 21-18, 22-20.

Mixed Doubles
Semi finals:
J.Whetter/J.Philp beat D.Harrington/T.Woodroffe 19-21, 21-12, 21-17.
G.Michell/R.Irish beat J.Cooper/H.Robertson 21-18, 21-16.
Final – Whetter/Philp beat Michell/Irish 25-23, 21-19.

Plate winners –

Mens singles : Kynan Clarke
Ladies singles: Beth Rich
Mens doubles: Sam Spencer/Jon Wotton
Ladies doubles: Hannah Robertson/Rachel Collard
Mixed: Shane Maton/Jan Santillo

Friday 23 September 2011

Cornwall Senior “Closed” Badminton Championships

THIS WEEKEND (Saturday and Sunday, September 24/25), the Cornwall Senior “Closed” Badminton Championships’ are being contested at Polkyth Leisure Centre, St. Austell, starting at 10.00 am, each day.

Tomorrow (Saturday), the Men’s and Ladies’ Singles and Mixed doubles are being staged, followed, on Sunday, by the Men’s and Ladies’ Level Doubles’ competitions.

County number ones, Kelvin Edwards and Johanna Philp, the defending champions, start out as the favourites, in the two blue ribband singles events.

Monday 19 September 2011

29TH DUCHY OPEN REVIEW

SEES VIKKI SECURING A BRACE OF INAUGURAL TITLES, WITH CHRIS RETAINING AND KELVIN - A NEW STAR - SHINING BRIGHT.

THERE was a very high standard of play, with camaraderie to the fore, once again, in the Duchy of Cornwall 29th Open Badminton Championships, which was contested at its Home Base, Carn Brea Leisure Centre, Pool, Near Redruth, over the Weekend of September 17/18, writes John Tresidder.

The prestigious Event, A Tournament in the BADMINTON England Senior Silver Circuit, with a prize fund totalling £1,260, also held two distinguished presentations on the second day.

Indeed, the famous Tournament, promoted by The Cornwall County Badminton Association, is known, affectionately, as one of the most enjoyable and best organised on the English Badminton Circuit.

Another bumper overall entry of around 100 players - with fifty and nineteen in the men’s and ladies’ singles, respectively - competed in the Championships, with competitors drawn from a good spread of English and Welsh Counties.

Blue ribband events:
DAY ONE saw Vikki Jones, the Ladies’ Singles number one seed, from Mid-Glamorgan winning her first Duchy, when she out-pointed Kelly Holdway, who hails from Hampshire, seeded two, 21/11, 21/16.

Meanwhile, Gloucestershire’s Chris Hotchen, the favourite, retained the Men’s Singles title, when he defeated, Will Hiton-Jackson, (Sussex, No. 2 seed), 21/17, 21/15. in the corresponding blue ribband discipline.

Miss Jones, in tandem with Nicolas Strange (South Glamorgan), went on to harvest the Mixed Doubles, in the early evening, to make it a glorious brace of titles on the first day, when overcoming the challenge of John Hepworth and Kelly Holdway, Hampshire’s top seeds, 21/16, 18/21, 21/12.

DAY TWO witnessed another feast of badminton in the Hall.
Kelly Holdway, Hampshire’s County First Team player, whilst partnering Elena Johnson, recorded a third Duchy trophy, defeating Jo Philp and Nicole Jacobs, the Cornish/Middlesex outfit, 21/8, 21/8. However, Jo and Nicole, a scratch duo, were seen to gell very efficiently and may well team up for another English “Open”, in the near future.

Men’s Doubles proves a fitting finale to an exhilarating weekend:
The proceedings were seen to go to the wire, with past champions, Devon’s Corby Brothers, Dan and Matt Corby, putting up a spirited performance, before going down, narrowly, to the Will. Hilton-Jackson and Daniel Charteres Susses/Hampshire combination, 20/22, 22/20, 28/26.

Many agreed, that the power play and exhausting rallies, would not have looked out of place on an International court, at times and had the spectators on the edge of their seats, throughout – therefore, congratulations, all four gentlemen.

Popular Jo’s wonderful Tournament:
The weekend also proved very successful, for Johanna Philp, aged 18, Cornwall’s number one lady, based at the Camelford, North Cornwall Club:

On the Saturday, she turned out with her usual “Open” partner, Dave Edgar, Cheshire, as one of two 3/4 seeds, to reach the Mixed Semi-finals, before winning through to the Ladies' Final, with Nicole Jacobs, on Day 2.

As a reward, for her efforts, she became the recipient of the 2011 Best Cornish Player, trophy, for the second year in a row.

Jo is a Midwifery student at Truro College and next Autumn, the bubbly and popular Port Isaac lady has ambitions to go up to the University of the West of England (UWE), Bristol, to read Midwifery, as well as to obtain a place at the University of Bath’s National Badminton Academy, which is renowned.

Young Hampshire badminton star catches the eye:
There was a most polished performance from 15-year old Kelvin Latimer, unseeded, from Portsmouth, an England Under-16 squad member, who reached the Men’s Singles semi-finals, going down, in style, to Will Hill-Jackson, the eventual runner-up, 21/15, 18/21, 18/21.

However, the talented young man, such a gentleman - on and off court - was awarded the 2011 Sporting Spirit Trophy. He is coached by Jack Webb, a past singles winner, and proved he has the potential to become a Duchy champion in the not too distant future – in 2013, possibly.

In addition, the writer is pretty confident Kelvin will progress to the England Badminton senior ranks, one day - watch this space.

Welcome callers to Hall:
Amongst the welcome callers, were Emma Austin, the BADMINTON England Development Officer, for Cornwall & West Devon and Mr. Paul Smith, the Headmaster of Truro School, in whose whose Sports Hall the Kerrier Junior Open and the England Bronze Tournaments are held.

Main Sponsors:
GRAPHIC SOLUTIONS - www.graphicsols.com - the Computer Company, from Farnborough, Hampshire, together with TAG SPORTS - www.tagsports.co.uk, in conjunction with YONEX UK LTD, joined forces, once more, as the Tournament’s joint main sponsors.

The Countryman Inns Free Houses Group, from Piece, Carnkie, Near Redruth, together Dales Renault, based at Scorrier and Summercourt, were amongst the other generous backers, of the Championships.

Cornwall County and CYB well represented:
There was another good turn out, from Cornwall, the host, of over twenty players, including a healthy contingent of youngsters from the successful Cornwall Youth Badminton (CYB) Organisation, which has Jenny Marchant at the helm, as Chairman and a Main Sponsor in Dairy Crest Davidstow, of the Cornish Cathedral City Cheese Company.

Indeed, in the Duchy’s Men’s and Ladies’ Doubles “Plate” Finals, there were All-Cornish Affairs: First up, St. Austell Bay’s James Whetter/Guy Michell duo, the county number one pairing, defeated first team compatriots, Tom Lyle and Ross Lashbrook (Launceston), 21/19. This was followed by Emily James and Vicky Thomas (Falmouth/St. Just), accounting (21/14), for the young CYB-partnership of Hester Luke and Abigail Logg, from Penzance, who displayed promise to reach the Final, 21/14. Well done, young ladies!

David on the referee’s console:
David Burgess, an experienced International Referee, based in Barnstaple, North Devon, was the official in change. David has been in position, on his referee’s console, from 1985 – 2011 and has decided to retire this year.

When David he joined the Tournament, Pat Hollands, a co-founder, was the Tournament Secretary, who passed away in August, 2010.


Bill Andrew, Vice President, BADMINTON England, Alan Williams, EBA Recipient, Brenda Andrew, Tony Poole, Kellen Moore,
CYB Under-15 squad member and a student at Camborne Science College.


Distinguished presentations to David and Alan:
On the Sunday Morning, there were two distinguished presentations in the Carn Brea Hall:

Firstly, Mrs. Linda Collins, the Tournament Chairman and Secretary, on behalf of her Committee, proceeded to give thanks and presented Mr. David Burgess, an International official, from Barnstaple, North Devon, the retiring Duchy Open Referee, of 26 years, with a delightful cut-glass wine decanter, inscribed, supplied by Trophyman, Camborne.

Following on, Mr. Bill Andrew, BADMINTON England’s Vice President, accompanied by Mr. Tony Poole, the Cornwall Chairman, gave a citation and presented Mr. Alan Williams, from Camborne, with The English Badminton Award (EBA), “In recognition of long-standing exceptional service to Badminton In England”.

Camborne Science College student, Kellen Moore, aged 13, from the Cornwall Youth Badminton Under-15 squad, presented Mrs. Brenda Andrew (EBA), with a bouquet of flowers, arranged by Mills, the Florists, of Camborne.

Alan, Mr. Cornwall Badminton, a player, coach/administrator, a Co-founder of the Duchy Open and a Plymouth Argyle Football trialist, in his Youth, is the current President of Cornwall Youth Badminton, as well as being the Chairman/Coach of the First Edition Junior Badminton Club, based in Pool, near Redruth, sponsored by the Redruth Charity Trust.

It is the second time that Cornwall has been bestowed with this supreme England, “Lifetime Service” honour, with the Late Mrs. Pat Hollands, MBE, Reawla, near Hayle, being in receipt of hers, in 1998 and Mr. Burgess granted his EBA in 2007.

* Duchy Committee of Management, 2011:
Mrs. Linda Collins: Chairman & Hon. Tournament Secretary;
Mr. David Burgess: Hon. Tournament Referee;
Mr. Paul Martin: Hon. Treasurer;
Mr. Paul Collins: Hon. Tournament Co-ordinator;
Mr. John Tresidder: Hon. Press/Promotions Officer.

Anne and Colin Ransley, together with Lester Lashbrook and Dave Philp, did a sterling job as helpers, including with the poular “wine and nibbles” event.


Mrs. Collins wishes to give thanks to the following:
Mr and Mrs. Andrew, Cheshire, the Duchy’s Guests-of-Honour, David Burgess, the Referee, the sponsors, players, supporters, spectators and helpers, alike, as well as the Carn Brea Leisure Centre Management & Staff and the ZestCafe, who served up the delightful and well received lunches, over two days.


29TH DUCHY BADMINTON OPEN – FULL RESULTS:

MAIN DRAW EVENTS:
1). Ladies’ Singles:

Semi-finals:

Vikki Jones (Mid-Glam bt. Amy Reddaway (Somerset) - 21/18, 21/6;

Kelly Holdway (Hants) bt. Alice King (Essex) - 21/11, 21/11.

Final:

Miss Jones bt. Miss Holdway - 21/11, 21/16.


2). Men’s Singles:

Semi-finals:

Chris Hotchen (Glos) bt Raj Popat (Gwent) - 21/17, 19/21, 24/22;

Will Hilton-Jackson (Sussex) bt. Kelvin Latimer (Hants),
15/21, 21/18, 21/18.

Final:

Hotchen bt. Hilton-Jackson, 21/17, 21/15 (trophy retained).


3). Ladies’ Doubles:

Semi-finals:

Elena Johnson/Kelly Holdway (MIddlesex/Hants) bt.
Alice King and Sarah Gray (Essex/Sussex) - 21/8, 21/7;

Jo Philp/Nicole Jacobs (Cornwall/Middlesex) bt. Hannah and Sophie Laidler (both Devon) – 21/8, 21/18.

Final:

Miss Johnson/Miss Holdway bt. Miss Philp/Miss Jacobs - 21/8, 21/8.


4.) Men’s Doubles:

Semi-finals:

Will Hilton-Jackson/Daniel Chartres (Susses/Hants) bt.
S. Jacobs/Ackerman – 21/17, 23/21.

Dan Corby and Matt Corby (both Devon) bt. Keith Cuncarr/David Edgar (Lancs/ Cheshire) – 21/19, 20/22, 21/16.

Final:

Hiton-Jackson/Chartres bt. D. Corby/M. Corby -
20/22, 22/20, 28/26.


5). Mixed Doubles:

Semi-finals:

John Hepworth/Kelly Holdway (both Hants) bt. David Edgar (Cheshire/Cornwall) – 21/19, 16/21, 21/19;

Nicolas Strange/Vikki Jones (South Glam/Mid Glam), bt Jamie Roberton
Suzanne Owens (both Devon) - 21/14, 21/14.

Final:

Nicolas. Strange/Miss Jones bt. Hepworth/Miss Holdway -
21/16, 18/21, 21/12


KNOCK-OUT “PLATE” COMPETITIONS, FOR
MAIN DRAW 1ST ROUND LOSERS: FINALS:


1). Ladies’ Singles:

Sarah Gray, (Sussex) bt. Nicole Jacobs (Middlesex) - 21/15.


2). Men’s Singles:

Johnathan Evans (Dorset) bt. Rhys Thomas (Dorset) - 21/15.


3). Ladies’ Doubles:

Emily James/Vicky Thomas (both Cornwall bt.
Hester Luke/Abigail Logg (both Cornwall) – 21/14.


4). Men’s Doubles:

James Whetter/Guy Michell (both Cornwall) bt
Tom Lyle/Ross Lashbrook (both Cornwall) – 21/19.

“Sporting Spirit”: Kelvin Latimer, aged 15, Hants.

“Best Cornish Player”: Jo Philp, Port Iaaac-based, from the
Camelford Club - re-awarded.

Friday 9 September 2011

29TH DUCHY OPEN PREVIEW

EXCITEMENT MOUNTS AS CORNISH LADY, JO PHILP, FROM PORT ISAAC, IS SEEDED IN THE MIXED DOUBLES EVENT.


ANOTHER bumper overall entry of around 100 players - with fifty in the men’s singles – will be competing in the Duchy of Cornwall 29th “Open” Badminton Championships, with competitors drawn from a good spread of English Counties, together with West Glamorgan, from the Welsh Principality.

The prestigious Event, A Tournament in the BADMINTON England Senior Silver Circuit, with its prize-fund totalling £1,260, is scheduled for Carn Brea Leisure Centre, Pool, Near Redruth, its usual Base, next Weekend, Saturday and Sunday, September 17/18, writes John Tresidder.

The famous Tournament, promoted by The Cornwall County Badminton Association, is known, universally, as one of the most enjoyable and best organised on the English Badminton Circuit.

Main Sponsors:

GRAPHIC SOLUTIONS - www.graphicsols.com - the Computer Company, from Farnborough, Hampshire, together with TAG SPORTS - www.tagsports.co.uk, in conjunction with YONEX UK LTD, have joined forces, once more, as the Tournament’s joint main sponsors.

The Countryman Inns Free Houses Group, from Piece, Carnkie, Near Redruth, together Dales Renault, based at Scorrier and Summercourt, are amongst the other generous backers, of the Championships.

Programme-of-Events (10.00am start each day):

Saturday:

Men’s and Ladies’ Singles, followed by Mixed Doubles, extending to the semi-finals stage on the Saturday evening.

Sunday:

* Mixed Doubles Semi-finals and the Final, plus Men’s and Ladies’ Level Doubles.

“Bleacher” tiered seating will be set out for players, supporters and spectators, as in past years, with the entry to the hall and the Centre, itself, being free.

* NB: If there is a window of opportunity, then the Mixed Doubles semis and final may be contested on the Saturday evening.

Chris and Vikki installed as the favourites in the singles’ blue ribband Events, as Cornish Lady, Jo. receives a seeding in the Mixed Doubles:

Moving on to the play, on Day One, in the Men’s and Ladies’ Singles, the blue ribband events, Gloucestershire’s Chris Hotchen, the defending champion and Vikki Jones, the Mid-Glamorgan No. 1, have been installed by the seeding committee, as the favourites to lift the trophies,

Meanwhile, Jo. Philp, the Cornwall senior number one lady - a Midwifery student at Truro College - together with her partner David Edgar, from Cheshire, are seeded to reach the semi-finals of the mixed doubles, the four groupings of which get underway on the afternoon of the first day.

Furthermore, Miss Philp, aged 18, of the bubbly personality, who hails from Port Isaac, also has the talent to perform well in the singles competition, which precedes the mixed.

On Day Two, Edgar and his partner, Keith Cuncarr, his county compatriot, seeded two in the Men’s Event, behind Robert Cooper and John Hepworth, the number one combination, from Staffordshire/Hampshire, have the ability to win the contest outright, to record a second Duchy Men’s Doubles for the popular Cheshire duo.


CYB well represented:

There is another good turn out, from Cornwall, the host, of over twenty players, including a healthy contingent of youngsters from the successful Cornwall Youth Badminton (CYB) Organisation, with Jenny Marchant at the helm, as Chairman and with its Main Sponsor in Dairy Crest Davidstow, of the Cornish Cathedral City Cheese Company.

David on the referee’s console:

David Burgess, an experienced International Referee, based in Barnstaple, North Devon, is the official in charge of the play in the hall over the weekend.

* Duchy Committee of Management, 2011:

Mrs. Linda Collins: Chairman & Hon. Tournament Secretary;
Mr. David Burgess: Hon. Tournament Referee;
Mr. Paul Martin: Hon. Treasurer;
Mr. Paul Collins: Tournament Co-ordinator/Hall Manager;
Mr. John Tresidder: Press/Promotions Officer.

Chairman Linda looking forward to another exhilarating weekend:

Linda Collins, the diligent and enthusiastic Chairman and Tournament Secretary of Event, who has been in post since 1988, comments: “We look forward to One & All calling into the Carn Brea Hall, over the weekend, of September 17/18, where one will be made most welcome, as usual, to witness, some more very exciting badminton, indeed.”

Finally, the comprehensive review/results, will be published in the Cornish & Devon Press (WB: 26th September), as well as being posted on the Cornwall Badminton Website: www.cornwallbadminton.co.uk



29TH DUCHY OPEN: SEEDS:

Top Two listed in the five main events:

Men’s Singles:

No. 1: Chris Hotchen (Glos) – defending champion;

No. 2: Will Hilton-Jackson (Sussex).


Ladies Singles:

No. 1: Vikki Jones (Mid-Gam);

No. 2: Kelly Holdway (Hants).


Men’s Doubles:

No. 1: Robert Cooper/John Hepworth, (Staffs/Hants);

No. 2: Keith Cuncarr/David Edgar (both Cheshire) - former champions.


Ladies’ Doubles:

No. 1: Elena Johnson/Kelly Holdway (Middlesex/Hants);

No. 2: Jenny SargentKath Gittens (both Dorset).


Mixed Doubles:

No: 1: John Hepworth/Kelly Holdway (both Hants);

No 2: Robert Cooper /Alice King (Staffs/Sussex);

No. 3/4: David Edgar/Jo. Philp (Cheshire/Cornwall);
Nick Strange/Vikki Jones (both Mid-Glam)

Wednesday 31 August 2011

Cornwall Restricted Championships.

Entry forms were released today for the CCBA Cornwall Restricted Championships.

The tournament will be held on Saturday 24th, and Sunday 25th September, at Polkyth Leisure Centre

The closing date for entries is Sunday September 18th and entry forms can be downloaded by clicking HERE , or from the download section on the right of the Cornwall Badminton website.

Tuesday 23 August 2011

Community Badminton Bonanza Event

October the 15th 2011 sees the return of the Cornwall County Badminton Association’s Badminton Bonanza tournament at the 6 court sports hall in Penryn Sports college from 10am – 5pm.

This fun tournament will include, singles, level doubles and mixed doubles events, all split into two categories of social and league standard ensuring that players are only drawn against those of a similar ability.

In 2010 the event attracted over 50 entrants from all over Cornwall and parts of Devon, raising significant funds that are to be ploughed back into grass roots community badminton projects within the county.

Forms can be downloaded by clicking HERE , or from the download section on the right of the Cornwall Badminton website, or contact Trevelyan Searle - Tel: 01736 798606.

Monday 1 August 2011

BADMINTON: 29TH DUCHY OPEN

PLANNING WELL ADVANCED WITH £1,260 IN THE PRIZE FUND, FOR THIS SEPTEMBER’S EVENT.

ANOTHER bumper entry of over 100 players is anticipated for the Duchy of Cornwall 29th “Open” Badminton Championships, with competitors expected to be drawn from a good spread of English and Welsh Counties, once more,writes John Tresidder.

The prestigious Event - known as one of the most enjoyable and best organised in England - A Tournament in the BADMINTON England Senior Silver Circuit, and with the prize-fund at: £1,260, is scheduled for Carn Brea Leisure Centre, Pool, Near Redruth, on the Weekend of Saturday and Sunday, September 17/18.

Entry fees – no change:

Entry fees have been pegged at the 2010 prices, with the entry forms scheduled to be posted - around 31st July.

Alternatively, if one is not on the Database, one can download a form from the following Badminton Websites, shortly:


1). Cornwall County Badminton Association (CCBA):

See Download Section to right of this page -->


2). BADMINTON England:

www.badmintonengland.co.uk


Main Sponsors:

Graphic Solutions - www.graphicsols.com - the Computer Company, from Farnborough, Hampshire, together with TAG SPORTS - www.tagsports.co.uk, in conjunction with YONEX UK LTD, have once more joined forces as the Tournament’s joint main sponsors.

The Countryman Inns Free Houses Group, from Piece, Carnkie, Near Redruth, together Dales Renault, based at Scorrier and Summercourt, are amongst the other generous backers, of the Championships, which are known as one of the best organised and most popular on the English Badminton Circuit.

Programme-of-Events (10.00am start each day):

Saturday:
Men’s and Ladies’ Singles, followed by Mixed Doubles, extending to the Semi-finals stage on the Saturday evening.

Sunday:
Mixed Doubles Semi-finals and Final, pus Men’s and Ladies’ Level Doubles.

“Bleacher” tiered seating will be set out for players, supporters and spectators, as in past years, with the entry to the hall and the Centre, itself, being free.

CYB expected to be well represented:

There is expected to be a good turn out from Cornwall, the host, of over twenty players, including a healthy contingent of youngsters from the successful Cornwall Youth Badminton Organisation, which is supported by Dairy Crest Davidstow, of the Cornish Cathedral City Cheese.


David on the referee’s console:

David Burgess, an experienced International Referee, is the official in charge of the play in the hall over the weekend.

* Duchy Committee of Management, 2011:

Mrs. Linda Collins: Chairman & Hon. Tournament Secretary;
Mr. David Burgess: Hon. Tournament Referee;
Mr. Paul Martin: Hon. Treasurer;
Mr. Paul Collins: Tournament Co-ordinator/Hall Manager;
Mr. John Tresidder: Press/PR Officer.

Linda looking forward to another exhilarating weekend:

Linda Collins, the diligent and enthusiastic Chairman and Tournament Secretary of Event, who has been in post since 1988, comments: “We look forward to One & All calling into the Carn Brea Hall, over the weekend, of September 17/18, where one will be made most welcome, as usual, to witness, undoubtedly, some more very exciting badminton, indeed.”

Finally, the comprehensive review/results, will be published in the Cornish & Devon Press, as well as being posted on the Cornwall Badminton Website: www.cornwallbadminton.co.uk

John Tresidder
Cornwall County Badminton Press & Promotions Consultant,
Camborne.

Wednesday 25 May 2011

ENGLAND SCHOOLS' BADMINTON FINALS: TRURO SCHOOL’S VINTAGE SPORTING YEAR CONTINUES - AT CENTER PARCS, SHERWOOD FOREST, NEAR NOTTINGHAM



THE ENGLAND SCHOOLS’ Badminton Championships Finals, 2011, sponsored by Center Parcs GB, were staged at the Company’s magnificent Center Parcs, Sherwood Forest, Nr. Nottingham, on the Weekend of April 3/4.

Truro School, who won the South West of England Final, at the University of Exeter, Devon, on March 3, were thus representing the South West of England Region, in this most prestigious of Events, contested at the magnificent venue, managed by the Company, CENTER PARCS UK LTD, BADMINTON England’s main sponsor.

The Cornish School, who travelled up on the Friday, with an abundance of rackets, kit bags, snacks, fruit juices and the like, had no need to pack their bows and arrows, on this occasion, for their famous visit to Robin Hood Territory, world- renowned,

As anticipated, the National play, overall, was seen to be of an exceptionally high standard, with some of the Country’s most talented badminton youngsters, including Junior Internationals, competing in the famous Sherwood Forest Hall.

On Saturday, the first day, Truro School’s Key Stage 3 KS3. Years, 7, 8 and 9 (Under-14) Team, who are relatively inexperienced at junior county play, played valiantly, but finished ninth out of nine regional schools. However ninth best School in the Country, remains a superb result.

The Duchy’s well known School, competing in a group of three regions, won around 50% of the singles games contested, going down in two matches by a single point and five rubbers, by the same margin.

Isaac and Kieran duo unbeaten for season:

Moving on to the play, Truro’s Isaac Barrow and Kieran Westlake Outfit, won all their respective doubles rubbers; thus, having remained undefeated at county, regional and national level, all season – quite some achievement Boys.

Meanwhile, Vinodh Arumugam, took the scalp of Michael Taylor, a higher-ranked “Silver” player, from Lincolnshire, before Lancashire’s Mattew Kitteringham and proved to be an inspirational skipper all day, for Truro School.

Mr. Eric Brown, BADMINTON England’s Chair of the Youth and Sport Board,
earlier in the day, welcomed all the competitors in the age categories to the Finals, before acting as the Organiser and the Referee.

Mr. Brown reported that the standard of play was increasing from Year-to-Year, with some 1,600 English Schools and 23,000 players starting out for this year’s 2010/2011 Tournament.

Team England presence:

Team England International, Jenny Wallwork, part of the Nathan Robertson, Mixed Doubles combination, who are hoping to be selected for the London 2012 Olympic Games, was present to give support to the proceedings.

David Hunt, Truro School’s Team Manager and Head of 2nd Year, was full of praise for his young Team and reported:

“We gave it our best shot, most certainly and enjoyed the Day, and the ambience at the Sherwoof Forest Parcs, immensely.

“I visited Center Parcs, Nottingham, in the Spring of 2009, with a Truro Girls’ Team, who finished 6/9 and Center Parcs, this time around, once more, provided excellent hospitality and facilities, including the sports hall and the catering hall.

“Our gratitude is extended to the Company’s management and staff, including Mr. Colin Whaley, Sales and Marketing Director, along with Mr. Brown and BADMINTON England, as well.

“Congratulations to Stantonbury Campus School, Bucks, who became National champions in our KS3 Boys’ Under-14 .Tournament, including to Members, Jed and Harry Arksey, the England International Brothers, who have associations with Alan Williams’ popular Kerrier Open Tournaments, contested at my School

“A special word for the Penryn College Badminton Club, our fellow competitors, and friends in Kernow, who have also experienced a memorable season, under the direction of chief coach, Jon Wotton.

“Penryn College became the Regional runner’s up in the KS3 Girls’ Doubles Tournament, behind Bournemouth High School for Girls, the eventual National Champions, thus becoming the Joint 10th Best team in England – some achievement Jon and Ros. Bastian, Head of Sport and PE.”

Truro School’s Head Badminton coach, Mr. Clif Morcom, from Redruth, commented:

“All day, my charges gave 100%, in an inspirational performance, in the National finals and I am so very proud of them all.

“We couldn’t overcome the final hurdle, but to finish 9th Best School, in England, is a fantastic achievement. This has been an invaluable experience for the Boys and it will inspire them, undoubtedly, for their years ahead in Badminton.

TEAM TRURO SCHOOL, 2011:

Vinodh Arumugam, Year 9 (Captain);

Christopher Lin, Year 9;

Kieran Westlake, Year 9

Isaac Barrow, Year 8.

Team Manager: Mr. David Hunt, Head of 2nd Year;

School Coach: Mr. Clif Morcom, Redruth.

The WILSON Company sponsored the feather shuttlecocks.

Finally, Truro School, the Methodist Conference Co-educational Establishment, with a proud tradition in sport and having experienced a vintage sporting year, 2010/2011, reaching the finals of four prestigious England Schools’ sporting events:

Tennis, Netball, Badminton and the RFU’s Daily Mail England School’s Under-15 Rugby final, against The Royal Grammar School, High Wycombe, Bucks. Well done, indeed.

John Tresidder. Reporter for
Truro School’s Badminton Team.

CORNWALL JUNIOR BADMINTON - BRIGHT SPORTING FUTURES ARE PREDICTED FOR YOUNG BADMINTON STARS, KELLEN AND AMY.

LONDON BUSES naturally spring to mind, when one thinks of two talented Camborne Science & Community College students, Kellen Moore and Amy Polglase, both aged 12.

The young stars, who are both good friends, are showing remarkable prowess and passion on their beloved badminton court.

Both youngsters, so personable and unassuming, have been playing badminton for 18 months only and, already, they have gained National recognition, via BADMINTON England rankings, in the Under-13 Girls’ Singles discipline.

Prior to Christmas, Amy was ranked No: 42, with Kellen on No. 31, but after the release of the February, 2011 figures, Amy had jumped to number.29, with Kellen, on number 17.

The Girls have been members of the successful Cornwall Youth Badminton (CYB) Under-13 team, sponsored by Dairy Crest Davidstow (“Cathedral City” cheese), which, has lifted the South West Counties Junior Badminton League, for the first time in Kernow’s history. Indeed, Kellen has been the Team’s joint captain, along with Sam Laity and Alex Julian.

Alan and Clif to the fore, with coaching, as Jo. helps out with games on court:

Alan Williams and Clif Morcom, from the popular First Edition Junior Badminton Club, based in Pool, Redruth and sponsored by The Redruth Charity Trust, with Chris Hailey, as its chairman, have both been instrumental in the Girls' phenomenal development and success.

In addition, the Moore and Polglase families are indebted to Jo. Philp, the Cornwall number one badminton lady, in respect of her advice and the games, played at Carn Brea Leisure Centre, over the past year.

Furthermore, Badminton, on the Camborne Science College campus, under the direction of Kath Wotton, nee Giles, together with the Sports Department staff, is seen to be thriving, with membership in excess of forty, with Kellen and Amy being among the representative players. for the inter-college matches.

Kellen competes at the BADMINTON England “Nationals”, in Bristol:

Saturday March 19, saw Kellen taking up an invitation to compete in the prestigious “Nationals”, for the Girls’ Singles under-13 age group. held at the University of The West of England (UWE), Bristol.

Whilst flying the flag, proudly, for the Duchy, she gave a very good account of herself, in defeating an England “Gold” Girl, Katriona Clegg, from Yorkshire, 23/25, 21/12, 21/15, before putting up a gritty performance against an England International, going down, valiantly, 21/12, 21/15.

Four Cornwall “Closed” Under-13 / Under-15 Titles, in one season:

MIss Moore, has also had representative outings for the CYB Under-15 squad and, this season she has also lifted the Cornwall singles and doubles events, at both under-13 and under-15 level, the level doubles whilst teaming up with Amy Polglase, on each occasion.

Next season, Kellen steps up the “Ladder” to the under 15’s - familiar territory, to the young lady - and the status-quo - with even more success, with the plaudits rolling in - very much on the cards. Well done Kellen, on a most memorable season.

Meanwhile, Miss Polgase, who spent five years training with the Swallows of Helton Gym Club, Nationally renowned – which shows through in her sublime natural movement, poise and balance on the court – with the exodus of the older Girls to the Under-15 group, will start off in September, 2011, as the 7th best under-13 Girl, in England – some achievement, keep up the good work and training, Amy.

STOP-PRESS:

On the Weekend of April 9/10 and May 7/8, the young ladies were on their travels, once more, accompanied by proud Mums, Lesley Moore and Carole, Polglase, when they competed in the South West of England “Open” and “Closed” Badminton Under-13 and Under-15 singles and doubles, at Torbay, South Devon, with yet more silverware harvested for the home journey.

Senior County No. 1 challenge, within three years, seems a certainty:

Finally, the writer, John Tresidder, is certain, that by the 2014/2015 campaign, both Kellen and Amy will be challenging to reach the Cornwall Ladies’ singles number one berth, currently held by 18-year-old, Jo Philp (Port Isaac) and, allied to their development, they will also be bidding for places in the Cornwall First Team’s squad, as well.

* In respect of the 2011/2012 season, Kellen and Amy are looking for sponsorship and any Cornish company interested, is asked to contact in the first instance:

Mr. Clif Morcom, Badminton Coach, tel: (01209) - 213 851.
Alan Williams, Badminton Administrator/Coach, tel: 01209 - 712 626..

John Tresidder

Cornwall County
Badminton Publicity
Consultant, Camborne.

Tuesday 26 April 2011

2011 U17 NOTTINGHAM ICT

Cornwall U17 Badminton Team travelled to Nottingham University on Sunday 17th April to compete in the Annual National Inter Counties Tournament (ICT). This was the culmination of 12 months training and competing by the players who were aiming to move Cornwall up the National Inter County rankings.




TEAM
Sam Spencer - Truro College (Capt),Kris Jasper - Launceston College, Tony Marshall - Budehaven School, Chris Grout - Launceston College, Kynan Clarke - Truro College.
Beth Wotton - Hayle School (Capt),Abigail Logg - St Catherines RC Launceston, Beth Rich - Mounts Bay School, Hannah Robertson - Callington School, Hester Luke - Mounts Bay School.

At 12 midday on the Monday the Team commenced 4 days of intensive matches against a top 10 seeded team from Hampshire. Overall result 9-1 to Hampshire but every player competed, and notched up a very respectable overall points tally. Next followed Staffordshire, another highly ranked team. A score of 7-3 against Cornwall did not reflect some great individual performances and a 5-5 draw was on the cards at the midway point of the match. The final match on day one was another hard encounter taking on Nottinghamshire. Another scoreline of 7-3,but again great performances and an outstanding mixed doubles win for Chris and Hannah in 3 ends of nail biting rallies. Our boys pairings of Sam and Tony and Kris Jasper and Kynan both winning exceptional matches.

Day two started early with a match v Middlesex. The standard of play was high on both sides of the court, Tony having a magnificent 3 ends of singles losing narrowly in the third. Final result 9-1 Middlesex, but again the team were always running their higher fancied opponents close in each match. Oxfordshire followed and a 10-0 score reflected the exceptional talent of some of the Oxfordshire boys, our girls going so close, Abi missing out on a fantastic effort in her singles. Both our boys were matched against Gold standard singles players and Sam at no1 and Kris at no2 were exceptional, working tirelessly to increase our teams points tally. Both players producing some incredible rallies of speed, agility and technical ability.

Day Three took the team to a different venue within the City. What a start is was, a must win game to move up the rankings, paved the way for some outstanding performances, notably Kynan in his singles. However a true “team” performance resulted in a 7-3 victory for Cornwall. This was immediately followed by a nail biting match v Isle Of Man. Cornwall losing out 6-4,but a determined performance by Tony and Sam coming back from one end down in the doubles showed that there was still more to come from our team.

The team regrouped and arguably gave their best team performance of the competition, defeating Norfolk on a 5-5 count back, the opposition not expecting such an outcome. Every player gave 100 % Beth Rich winning a monumental singles.
The last day saw a “local” derby v Wiltshire and the team were determined to reverse last seasons ICT result against the same opposition. The girls stepped up to the mark ,with our Bethanys winning their doubles and Hannah and Hester likewise. Beth Rich again delivered in her singles. Kynan won a hard fought singles in 3 and both our mixed pairings of Chris and Beth W and Hannah and Tony won.
A scoreline of 6-4 in Cornwalls favour.

The teams final position of 34 moved the county off bottom place up six places and into a higher grouping. A fantastic achievement winning 3 matches ,competing against the very best players from across the Country and some outstanding badminton by our youngsters.

The team returned to the University to watch the early stages of the final, Warwickshire v Cheshire, watching the England no1 boys singles champion in awe inspiring form.

A long trip home resulted in our last few players returning at 2am to Penzance after the 320 miles !!

Very many thanks to our main sponsors “Dairy Crest Davidstow”, the players wearing their shirts and hoodies with immense pride throughout the 4 days.

Thanks also to all local outlets, supermarkets across the county who supplied sports drinks and energy bars for our players.

2012 promises to be another challenging year at the ICT but the bar has been raised and it is intended to rise to the challenge !!

Team managers ;
Jon Wotton-Sue Cooper.

Monday 4 April 2011

CORNWALL U17s v WILTSHIRE U17s

MATCH REPORT - Amesbury Sunday 3rd April 2011
Cornwall U17s finish their South West Counties League campaign in fine style

Cornwall U17s Badminton Team travelled to Amesbury, Wiltshire in a confident mood after a comprehensive win over near neighbours Somerset the previous weekend. The Duchy were looking to consolidate 4th place in the South West Counties League and also push for 3rd place when all final match results for the season are consolidated. An early start for some of our players, 6am from Penzance did not dampen the teams spirits. On arrival the team warmed up and soon got to grips with the challenges of the afternoon.

TEAM.
Boys; Sam Spencer (Capt) - Truro College ,Kris Jasper - Launceston College, Chris Grout - Launceston College, Tony Marshall - Bude Haven School, Kynan Clarke - Truro College, Christian Jasper - Launceston College.
Girls; Beth Wotton (Capt) - Hayle School, Beth Rich - Mounts Bay School, Abi Logg - St Catherines Launceston, Hannah Robertson - Callington sixth Form, Rachael Collard - Callington sixth Form, Hester Luke - Mounts Bay School.

Seven of the Counties players were competing for the last time as Junior U17 County Players and were keen to finish in style. The girls simply blew away the opposition with 6 wins from 6 in the singles. Each player reaping the benefits of a season long fitness programme. The boys worked hard in all their games but failed to take the top 3 matches. Sam at no2 playing a tenacious match but ultimately just being narrowly beaten in two ends. Tony as always played a long patient game and finally took the third end 21-13. A great season of County singles for Tony. Kynan was simply too strong for his opponent at no5 and Christian took his last singles match for the County at No6 in 3 ends.

Into the doubles with a healthy 9-3 advantage. Again our girls proved too strong winning 7 out of the 9 matches. Our no1 pairing in their final County match Beth Wotton and Beth Rich continuing their recent good form with 3 straight wins in two ends. The boys kept pace and a relatively new pairing of Kris Jasper and Kynan Clarke took all 3 matches with some great attacking play. Sam and Christian took 2 matches but the match of the day was to be played between the Wiltshire no1s against Tony and Chris Grout. End to end attack, long rallies left it one end all. Into the final end and what a game it was! The final score going to sudden death at 29-29, a nail biting final rally saw the Wiltshire pair take it 30-29 !!! An incredible match warmly applauded by all spectators and all players stopping their own matches to watch the closing points from 20-20. Spectacular badminton !!!

The score read 23-7 in the Cornwalls favour going into the mixed. Beth Wotton and Kris Jasper winning in 3, taking the 3rd end in fine style 21-13 at no1 Hannah and Chris Grout going to 3 ends at no2 but unable to take the last end losing 21-15. Beth Rich and Tony at 3 won in style in two ends. Abi and Sam were comfortable winning in two at no 4. Hester and Kynan after a slow start won well, winning the 3rd end 21-9. It was left to Rachael and Christian to finish the match at no6 with vocal support from both sets of players and spectators adding to the atmosphere. A comfortable win in two ends saw a final scoreline; CORNWALL 28 WILTSHIRE 8.

County badges were awarded to Hester Luke, Rachael Collard and Kynan Clarke on representing their County for the 3rd time this season.

A final thank you to all parents who have unstintingly supported our players and the team over a long season, taking players to numerous tournaments, a significant number out of Cornwall, in order to gain invaluable experience.

The overall performance of the Team has surpassed expectations and completely transformed the counties South West position. We wish the following players good luck in their future badminton careers as they move into the County 17-21 age group and Senior County from September; Sam Spencer, Tony Marshall, Chris Grout, Kynan Clarke, Christian Jasper , Beth Wotton and Beth Rich. Tony, Chris and Beth Wotton having represented Cornwall at 3 age groups, Under 13-15 and 17.

Training now continues for two final weeks for all of these players as they prepare for our final event of the season. Ten players will be competing in the National Harrod Inter Counties Tournament over 5 days at Nottingham University between 17-21st April. Here they will compete against the Countries very best players of both National and International standard.

Team Managers Sue Cooper-Jon Wotton

Wednesday 30 March 2011

New Premier Club!

St Austell Bay Senior and Junior Badminton Clubs have achieved Badminton England Premier status and Sport England Clubmark Accreditation.

Tim Jones, Badminton England’s Regional Officer for Cornwall, presented the certificates to Club Chairman Lyndon Allen at the Junior Club night and said “It is fantastic to see such an energetic badminton club be rewarded for their continuous hard work and support. The Clubmark Accreditation recognises those clubs who are proactively encouraging players of all ages and abilities to become more physically active through badminton, while developing their club environment to cater for such opportunities. St Austell Bay Badminton Club are one of many key partners supporting the delivery of the St Austell Community Badminton Network, enhancing the opportunities for badminton provision in the local area and offering a quality experience for all involved.”

(St Austell Bay Club Website)

Monday 28 March 2011

CORNWALL U17s v WILTSHIRE



Sunday 27th March, Tregorrick Park, St Austell

Cornwall U17s Badminton took a great victory on Sunday by comprehensively defeating close neighbours Somerset 23-13 in their penultimate South West Counties League fixture at their “home” venue at Tregorrick Park St Austell.

TEAM
Sam Spencer - Truro College (Capt). Chris Grout - Launceston College. Tony Marshall - Budehaven School. Kynan Clarke - Truro College. Christian Jasper - Launceston College.Chris Cooper - Penryn College. James Gallagher - Wadebridge School.
Beth Wotton - Hayle School (Capt). Beth Rich - Mounts Bay School. Abigail Logg - St Marys School Launceston. Hannah Roberston - Callington Sixth Form. Hester Luke - Mounts Bay School. Rachael Collard - Callington Sixth Form.

In the singles the boys took 5 out of the 6 matches with a classy performance by Chris Grout at no2 . James making his county debut at no6 won well in two hard fought ends 21-18.21-18. Just rewards for a consistent approach at training over two years. His determination under pressure being the deciding factor.

In the girls singles great wins for Hester playing at 3 in two straight ends ,Beth Wotton in two ends and Hannah winning a gruelling 3 ender at no6. This left the team with an 8-4 advantage going into the doubles.

The boys continued their great season at this discipline taking 6 out of 9 games. Christian and Chris Cooper further cementing their partnership at no3 by taking two games with a great win against the Somerset no2 pair.

The girls took all 3 against the Somerset 3rd pair. Beth and Beth making a critical contribution to keep the team on track with a fine win in two ends against the Somerset second pair, being more focussed and retaining the attack on a consistent basis. Our 3rd pairing of Rachael and Hester had a magnificent performance in taking the Somerset No1s to 3 close ends. Great tactical awareness by our girls.

A scoreline of 18-12 in the Duchys favour going into the mixed. This is where the strength in depth of the team lies. New pairings throughout the mixed returned 5 wins from 6. The most nerve racking performance goes to Beth Rich and Kynan at no3,who in 3 ends 19-21.23-21 and 28-26 showed all those present just how much pride there is within the team. A wonderful game to finish a great match for Cornwall.

This victory moves the team into a position to travel to Wiltshire next Sunday in good heart, with the aim of a 3rd place in the League still very much achievable.
A big thank you to all the Grandparents,Parents and Brothers and Sisters of our players who supported the match. Kynan having the full complement of 3 generations of his family in attendance to give support.

Thank you on behalf of Cornwall Youth Badminton to all the staff at Tregorrick Park for their welcome and support over a long season, this being the counties last competitive match at the venue for this season. Always a warm welcome and great facilities.

Team Managers-Sue Cooper-Jon Wotton.

Sunday 27 March 2011

CORNWALL WIN BATTLE OF THE CELTS!

Cornwall Badminton’s 1st team 8, West Glamorgan 7

In the final match of the season on Sunday, Cornwall won a tense, exciting home match, at St Austell’s Polkyth leisure centre, against their strong West Glamorgan rivals 8-7, with the large crowd on the edge of their seats all afternoon. The result keeps Cornwall on top of the league, and facing an anxious wait for the result of the Welsh team’s last match next week, to see who wins promotion.

Cornwall’s mens singles players, Kelvin Edwards and James Whetter, got the match off to a fine start with 2 victories, balanced by Jo Philp and Emily James both losing to their skilful counterparts. Once again, Tom Lyle and Ross Lashbrook impressed with their dominant mens doubles play, easily winning both games, as did the other Cornish pair of James and Guy Michell, who did well to win their games in 3-enders.

The girls pairings were up against it all afternoon, only Jo and Rachel Irish narrowly winning one game, and Emily and Bronwen Wotton coming agonisingly close but just losing in the final end.

So with the score on 7-5 going into the mixed, Cornwall only needed one game for victory, and all 3 for maximum points, tensions were running high in the hall. James and Jo stormed to a stunning win to set the scene and win the match. With both other games going to the wire, each pair of Kelvin and Bronwen, Guy and Rachel were very unlucky to lose despite a magnificent effort.

This team can be hugely proud of an excellent season, seven impressive wins and just one loss, on top of the league, and flying the flag for Cornish Badminton.

Monday 21 March 2011

Cornwall Chiefs keep pressure up


Tom and Jan fight for the crucial last game

Cornwall 1st team travelled away to Avon on Sunday to play their penultimate fixture of the season. Currently top of the table, but with West Glamorgan close behind and with games in hand, Cornwall needed a minimum of a 10-5 victory to take the title chase to the last match. James Whetter set the team rolling with a quick and clinical 21-7, 21-10 defeat of the Avon no.1, whilst Ross Lashbrook was unlucky to lose 21-18 in the third end of a closely fought battle. Jo Philp and Emily James took both the ladies singles to give us a 3-1 lead after the singles rubbers.

With solid, attacking badminton, Emily and Jo comfortably disposed of both Avon pairs. Bronwen Wotton and Janet Santillo displayed an impressive performance to defeat their equivalent pairing in three hard fought ends, and were unfortunate to miss out against the first pair in the third end. The Avon men’s first pair proved to strong for both James and Guy Michell, and Tom Lyle and Ross. However, both Cornish pairs had comfortable wins over the second pairs which meant we were still in the running for our much needed 10-5 win.

Tensions were running high as we went into the mixed doubles, needing to take at least 2 of the 3 rubbers to keep the title dream alive. James and Jo lost out in a tense three-ender to Avon’s first pair, and the pressure was on the remaining Cornish pairs to prevail.

Guy and Bron played controlled yet dynamic mixed doubles, dominating the increasingly frustrated Avon pairing in the third end and claiming victory. With a 9-4 lead it was paramount that Tom and Jan won the last match. All eyes were on the show court as yet again the match was taken to the wire in a tantalising third end. A combination of tactical prowess from Tom, sharp net play from Jan and extraordinary support from the on looking crowd gave Cornwall the edge and we took the final end 21/19. Captain Kelvin Edwards, who was unfortunately unable to play due to illness, was delighted with the 10-5 win; “This reflects some stunning individual results and a gutsy team performance- what a brilliant result”

Cornwall 1st team will need to put in the performance of the season this Sunday 27th to beat West Glamorgan at Polkyth Leisure Centre, and gain a chance of promotion. Home support is very much needed! Match starts at 12 noon.

Wednesday 9 March 2011

Cornwall Under 21 Badminton

Cornwall’s under 21 badminton stars were out in force at the weekend in a triangle match against Avon and Devon. The fixture held at St Peters School, Exeter is the third year the event has taken place and is good preparation for the Inter Counties Competition (ICC) held in April at Hatfield. The ICC is the pinnacle of colt badminton with over 30 counties competing. When the Duchy had arrived Devon had already beaten Avon 6-4 so it was now the Cornish’s turn to face the squad from Bristol.

The singles started well with the Duchy winning 3 out of the 4 singles contests, Emily James, Bron Wotton and Josh Pearce all winning through. Ross Lashbrook was unlucky in his tie taking the Avon number one to three sets and just missing out 14-21 in the third end to a very fit and tricky opponent Horace Tse.

Ross got his revenge in the men’s doubles, teaming up with Tom Lyle. The “on form” pair from Launceston won an interesting three set tussle with the Avon number one pair and extended the Duchy lead further to 4-1. The Cornish second pair of Chris Glasson and Josh Pearce went down in two sets to a hard hitting Avon second pair. “We lifted too much" commented Josh

In the Ladies doubles Emily James and Jo Philip just got run out in the third end 18 -21, while Bron Wotton and Daphne Luke changed tactics and took their absorbing match in three ends. So with a 5-3 score line going into the mixed, it was very much in the Duchy’s favour.

Chris Glasson and Jo Philip devastated their opponents in two ends showing a quality team performance. Daphne Luke and Tom Lyle in the second mixed did not let the side down with a fantastic three ended victory. It went right to the wire but the Cornish duo took the last end 23-21 leaving a fantastic Cornwall overall victory of 7-3. This must have put Devon at unease having only got a 6-4 win against Avon.

“We definitely had the physiological edge” suggested Team manager Kelvin Edwards.
“The matches are out of 10 games, so I placed our strengths in the Devon match in just making sure we got 6 wins to take the tie” continued Kelvin.

Sadly, and beyond the run of play Cornwall lost to Devon 3-7.

“We need to be more consistent, more of the time” commented Kelvin “If we played like we did against Avon there would be no question we could have reversed this score line, Devon did not win this fixture, we lost it!” Harsh words from the Cornwall manager, Kelvin continued,
“There were some outstanding performances today and at times every member of the team really played like they wanted to win, but we just need to see it through, think a little and finish the job”
“Player of the day, Tom Lyle, tactically superb”

60’s MAINTAIN 2nd PLACE

Cornwall 60’s successfully maintained 2nd position within their league with a convincing 11-1 win over Avon 2 at Clevedon on Sunday 27th Feb.

Again without Mike Nancekivell, captain Brian Hannibal brought Bill Edgar into the side. This proved an excellent choice, with Bill securing victory in all his games partnering Tony Roberts in the mens and Celia Hillman in the mixed.

Other successes came from Vera Nancekivell playing alongside Chris Marr and Brian with Phil Oland, while Pat Edwards who was partnered with Celia had one win and one loss.

The four mixed games were closely contested but pleasingly, all ended in Cornwall's favour.
The team are now looking forward to the final match of the season away to Wiltshire at Melksham on the 27th March.

Tuesday 8 March 2011

CORNWALL U13 BADMINTON VS SOMERSET - SUNDAY 6 MARCH 2011

The Cornwall u13 team played their last South West County league match; doing themselves proud by beating Somerset by a very convincing 33 - 3 games. Since Somerset were unable to field a full team of girls, Cornwall travelled up with a full side of boys, but just 3 girls and started the fixture with 11 games in hand. Despite knowing this, the Cornish team went onto court expecting to have to work hard to win games, but soon proved they were the superior players in all but a couple of games. It would be unfair to single out any player, as all gave of their best from beginning to end. The match was a short but enjoyable event, during which Cornwall proved the overwhelmingly better team; both in spirit and strength. The team, accompanied by supportive parents and coach, Cathryn Bick, deserve every congratulations for completing the season in true style! The team: Boys - Alex Julian (Captain), Sam Laity, Isaac Barrow, Nick Peters, Tyler Sillifant and Milo Semonin; Girls - Kellen Moore (Captain), Amy Polglase, Billie Wood (and Cara Thompson, Rosa Higgs and Laura Galley, who were selected for the match, but who disappointingly, had no opposition to face.)



Having remained unbeaten through the season, the Cornwall U13 team is now awaiting confirmation that they are the South West County League Champions - an honour brought home for the first time in the history of the league!




















Report by: Michelle Thompson, Team manager