Sunday 9 December 2012

Cornwall 1st Team v Gloucestershire

Home match at Polkyth, 9th December...


The visiting Gloucs team proved too strong for Cornwall, who were without number 1 player James Whetter, but battled to a creditable 11-4 defeat. Division 3 is proving a challenging step up for the young team, but at their current rate of improvement in this division, they have the game to take on the top sides and get some good results.

The singles games all went Gloucs' way, although Ross Lashbrook pushed his opponent all the way to 3 ends and only narrowly lost in the end.

Former England international Rebecca Pantaney showed her class throughout the afternoon, and helped the visiting ladies to all their doubles, despite two 3 end battles with both Jo Philp and Rose Willis, and Bronwen Wotton and Vicki Thomas.

In the mens it was a different story, with Cornwall boys putting on a great display of attacking doubles - Tom Lyle and Ross were impressive in winning both of theirs, while Shane Maton and Guy Michell took one and just lost out in the second.

Gloucestershire won the first 2 mixed doubles, and then it was down to Shane and Vicki at number 3 pair to salvage some more pride and extend their unbeaten run by winning in 3 close ends.

Well done to the team who showed a great fighting spirit throughout the match, and now look forward to their next home game versus Somerset, next Sunday 16th December.

Friday 16 November 2012

Cornwall Youth Badminton win coveted junior club award


Badminton England reports...
Cornwall Youth Badminton club were celebrating at the weekend when they were crowned Junior Club of the Year at the annual Cornwall Sports Awards.

The club, which boasts an impressive 94 members, won the coveted award, collected by coach Jon Wotton (pictured), after seeing off the challenge from 9 other shortlisted local sports clubs, including those in athletics, football, triathlon, hockey and American football.

The award was the result of ‘an amazing year’ according to BADMINTON England regional officer, Emma Austin, who also cited the “commitment and drive from the committee, players, coaches and players” as being a major factor in the club’s success both on court and at the awards ceremony.

Austin added “The award marks a new buzz that has been created within the badminton scene right across Cornwall. It is fitting, and even more satisfying, being handed out in the London 2012 Olympic year”.

The club, who were set up 7 years ago to cater for local demand for structured junior badminton coaching in the county, are no strangers to the Olympic limelight.

Regular club member Georgia Higgs made national headlines when she was selected as one of 5 young sports ambassadors to accompany David Beckham to Greece to collect the Olympic flame that kickstarted the nationwide torch relay ahead of London 2012.

Cornwall Youth Badminton, who are already affiliated to BADMINTON England for the 2012/13 season, are now working hard in the local community to support coaching in primary schools right across the county whilst players in the U17 squad bolster the coaching ranks by mentoring younger age groups. A new primary school festival is also in the plans for 2013.

Jenny Marchant, chairperson of Cornwall Junior Badminton, stated “This award is a tribute to all past and current members of CYB, of whom we are always proud, and are proof of what can be achieved by working as a team with a common set of values.

“It is wonderful to watch the players develop not just into talented badminton players but also responsible, young members of their local communities"

CYB Winners at Cornwall Sports Awards


Sports Volunteers have been recognised and rewarded for all their hard work at this year's Cornwall Sports Awards Ceremony

This evening the 2012 Cornwall Sports Awards invited our many unsung sporting heroes to take centre stage, to receive well-deserved applaud for all their incredible volunteering efforts and helping to bring the Olympic legacy to life.

The annual event, held at The Headland Hotel in Newquay on Friday 9 November, welcomed over 250 of Cornwall's dedicated volunteer sports coaches, officials, clubs, organisations and young leaders. They were joined by special guests, including a number of Cornish Olympic and Paralympic athletes, and Tim Bunting, General Manager of ShelterBox UK & Ireland.

Organised by the Cornwall Sports Partnership, the event is now in its seventh year of celebrating and paying tribute to the many volunteers from across the duchy who dedicate their time and efforts to supporting our strong sports community and inspiring the next sporting generation.

This year 15 awards were presented and the worthy winners are as follows:

Children's Coach of the Year - Jim Hilton, Newquay Football Club

Participation Coach of the Year - Brian Smallworth, Cornish Sharks American Football

Young Coach of the Year U25 - Melissa Reid, Gyllyngvase Surf Life Saving Club

Performance & Development Coach of the Year - David White, Storm Netball Club

Official of the Year - Yvonne Turner, Mounts Bay Harriers

Adult Club of the Year - Gyllyngvase Surf Life Saving Club

Junior Club of the Year - Cornwall Youth Badminton

2012 Club of the Year (chosen by postal vote, in collaboration with Cornwall & Devon Media Group Newspapers) - Liskeard Girls Football Club

Sport Maker of the Year - Mo Salome

Active Workplace of the Year - TRAC Services

Sportivate Project of the Year - Sportivate Explores Rowing at Nankersey

Young Leader of the Year - Tyler Richards, Mounts Bay School

Community Volunteer of the Year - Revis Crowle, East Cornwall Harriers

Community Volunteer of the Year U25 - Tony Pellow, Penryn Rugby Club

Lifetime Services to Sport - Shane Sullivan, Charlestown Rowing Club

During the ceremony there was a special message played from Cornish gold medal winning Olympic Rower, Helen Glover, offering her thanks for all the support she has received. Also, Tim Bunting, General Manger of Shelterbox UK & Ireland which is based in Helston, accompanied Olympic rower, Annie Vernon from Wadebridge, in delivering an inspirational speech for the 250 members of the audience.

Annie Vernon comments: "I've been really excited about the 2012 Cornwall Sports Awards, being a very proud Cornishwoman, as it is a great opportunity to bring together and celebrate all the athletes, coaches and volunteers that contribute to the sporting life in this county.

"I've now retired from international rowing after 8 years at the coal face, and I'm delighted to have had the opportunity to give something back to all those in the county who have supported me over the years."

Tim Bunting enthuses: "I'm absolutely delighted to have been a part of the 2012 Cornwall Sports Awards. From our board of Trustees, to our fantastic fundraisers, right through to those currently delivering aid in Senegal, Niger and Iraq, volunteers are the lifeblood of ShelterBox. Volunteers have therefore been responsible for saving hundreds of thousands of lives across the world".

Cornwall Sports Awards organiser, Natasha Howard of the Cornwall Sports Partnership, says: "The Cornwall Sports Awards has grown every year since it started in 2006 and is now a key date in the Cornish sports calendar. We've designed this year's event to build on the success of every other year and are delighted to have the opportunity to bring together some of our Olympians and Paralympians. During the year of our home Olympics it is incredibly fitting for our elite sports personalities to attend the event and formally pay tribute to the grassroots volunteers who have played a considerable part in their sporting journey.

"Volunteers are the backbone of sport and the true stars of the Cornwall Sports Awards. We are thrilled to celebrate their great achievements as part of this extraordinary year of sport and encourage them to continue their good work, creating a legacy of increased participation and enjoyment of sport."

A variety of Cornish companies and organisations support the event, including: Truro College, Sport England, Miller Countrywide, Tony Pryce Sports, Cornwall & Devon Media, Sports Leaders UK, Pyramid Production Services and NHS Health Promotion Service.

To see photographs and videos of the winners and event, visit our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/cornwallsportspartnership

Thursday 1 November 2012


CYB U17’s
Medals in Worcester

On Sunday 21st October a large contingent of Cornwall’s U17 squad headed off to Worcester to play in the Badminton England U17 Bronze tournament. All 13 players fought hard in their respective groups with Ben Johnson (Liskeard) and Jake Brazewell  (Truro College) progressing to the quarterfinals of the singles before being knocked out. Georgia Higgs (Helston), Amy Polglase (Camborne) and Kellen Moore (Camborne) all progressed to the knockout stage with Kellen coming away with a bronze medal and Amy the eventual runner up losing 21-15 in the final to Anisha De Silva (Bucks).
In the doubles it was clean sweep for Cornwall winning gold medals in both girls and boys doubles. Kellen and Amy winning comfortably against their Staffordshire opponents 21-12. The boys final was a much  tenser affair with Ben Johnson and Sam Payne (Callington) having to come from behind to win it on their 6th match point 25-23 against Alex Horner and Chris Dix (both Hampshire).


Cornwall Players: Vinodh Arumugam (Truro), Ruth Barnicoat(Penryn), Matt Bick(Mounts Bay), Will Bick(Mounts Bay), Jake Brazewell, Georgia Higgs, Ben Johnson, Kellen Moore,  Sam Payne, Amy Polglase,  Jack Osborne(Callington), Noah Semonin(Roseland), Nick Spencer( Truro College).

Monday 22 October 2012

Truro Badminton Bonanza

Badminton Bonanza, Truro Leisure Centre, 20th October 2012


Over 70 badminton players from all over Cornwall and Plymouth, came to Truro Leisure Centre at the weekend to take part in Cornwall Badminton Association’s Bonanza.

The idea of Badminton Bonanza tournaments is to give both social players and those who play league badminton a chance to try out and develop their skills against different players. The many regulars were joined this time by some very welcome new faces, as the tournament goes from strength to strength, with any profits going towards developing new clubs in Cornwall.

This year’s tournament at the new venue was a great success, with the Griffiths family from Camborne sweeping the board in the social sections. Husband and wife, Mark and Della, won the mixed doubles, then father and son, Mathew joined forces to win the mens, and the final event of the day, saw Mark finally wear down Mathew despite a touch of cramp, to triumph in the singles.

It was a similar scene in the league section, with St Ives’ Tony Wong winning the singles and the mens doubles with partner Trevelyan Searle, but just losing out in the mixed with Catherine Harrison to the Plymouth pair of Ryan Lambourne and Waine Parker.

Results:

Singles Social mens winner – Mark Griffiths, runner up Mathew Griffiths
Singles League mens winner – Tony Wong, runner up Paul Lydon
Singles Social ladies winner – Emma Brindley
Singles League ladies winner – Catherine Harrison, runner up Judit Matyas
Mens doubles social winners – Mark and Mathew Griffiths,
Runners up – Seng Fang and Che Tse
Mens doubles league winners – Tony Wong and Trevelyan Searle
Runners up – Gary Braunton and Alex Smith
Ladies doubles social winners – Marnie Boston and Zelda Bennett
Runners up – Lynn Jones and Sarah Catterall
Ladies doubles league winners – Debbie Blight and Kay Bossenger
Runners up – Judit Matyas and Talwyn Craddock
Mixed doubles social winners – Mark and Della Griffiths
Runners up – Martin Penney and Dee Frost
Mixed doubles league winners – Ryan Lambourne and Waine Parker
Runners up – Tony Wong and Catherine Harrison



Doubles winners and runners up

Griffiths Family - Social Mens Singles, Mens Doubles & Mixed Doubles winners


League Ladies Doubles winners

League Ladies Singles Winner & RU

League Ladies Singles Winner

League Mens Doubles Winners

League Mixed Doubles Winners

Singles Winners - League, Social, Ladies

Singles Winners & Runners Up

Social Ladies Doubles Winners

Social Mens Doubles Winners

Social Mens Singles Winner & RU

Social Mixed Doubles Winners

Social Mixed Winners & Runners up

Winning Pairs League & Social doubles

Tuesday 16 October 2012

Cornwall II v Somerset III

Cornwall II played Somerset III on 14th October 2012 at Crewkerne.  It was a close run thing against the Somerset 3rd team and although the tie was lost 7-8, nearly 2/3 of the rubbers went to 3 ends, so the result could have gone either way. We had several new players in the team and there was a very good team spirit. Well done to everyone.

Team consisted of:

Emily James, Hester Luke, Jan Santillo, and Lynda Beer
Dave Harrington, Kahoo Tse, Sam Spencer and Jack Dyer

2nd Team Manager
Lorna Riggs

Results:


Monday 15 October 2012

Former County Chairman

Ken Archer has sadly passed away aged 88. Gentleman Ken held the County Chairmans post for a number of years and also kindly donated a cup to the County which is awarded to the mixed doubles winners at the annual veterans tournament.


His funeral is scheduled for 1230 on Monday 22 October at Bodmin Crematorium.

Monday 1 October 2012

CLEAN SWEEP FOR JAMES AND JO

Cornwall Badminton Restricted Championships, 29/30th September 2012
Singles finalists: left to right - Rose Willis, Jo Philp, James Whetter, Shane Maton

This weekend saw a feast of high quality badminton at Polkyth Leisure Centre, as Cornwall’s top players battled it out for this year’s County Championships. The large entry, with an excellent turn out of Cornwall Youth Badminton’s under 17 year old players, was up on last year, and shows the healthy current and future state of Cornish Badminton as the majority of the competitors were under 21.

Stars of the show were James Whetter and Jo Philp, who each won 3 titles over the weekend, in the mens and ladies singles and with their partners in the doubles. James won back the singles title which he last won 4 years ago, defeating the defending champion Shane Maton in two ends of fluent, attacking badminton. Number 1 seed Jo, took three closely fought ends to beat Rose Willis, who was bidding to take the singles crown for the first time, after both players had shown their class in cruising to the final.

Ladies doubles finalists

The ladies doubles saw some tight games, with the promising young players Amy Polglase and Kellan Moore beating the defending champions Emily James and Vicki Thomas before coming up against the experienced Jan Santillo and Lynda Beer, who defeated them in two close games to reach the final. At the other half of the draw, the second seeds, Jo Philp and Rose Willis came through their semi taking on the Wotton sisters, Bronwen and Bethany, with some great net play on show. Rose and Jo finally overcame the tactical play of Jan and Lynda with their power and accuracy to win the final.

Sunday saw the mens and mixed doubles, and the large crowd were treated to some more exciting badminton – tournament secretary and county selector Lorna Riggs said “this year’s championships has been a brilliant standard with a bigger entry than last year, it’s great to see so many promising young players improving all the time”.

Mixed doubles finalists

The mixed doubles had 24 pairs battling it out for the coveted trophy. All the seeded pairs made it through to the semi finals, except Bob Bell and Lynda Beer who were beaten by Kelvin Edwards and Emily James in a skilful two-ender – they in turn were then beaten by Ross Lashbrook and Bronwen Wotton who met James and Jo in the final. Despite some amazing defensive play by Ross and Bron, James and Jo emerged victorious in two tight ends with more consistent court coverage and stunning net play.

Mens doubles finalists

The seeded mens pairs had to fight hard in 3 out of the 4 quarter final games which all went to the maximum 3 ends, except Shane Maton and Dave Harrington’s game which was a more comfortable 2 ender. Kelvin and Sam Spencer just edged out the veteran Bob Bell and Nick Phelps to set up a semi against Ross and Tom Lyle, who had only just beaten the Jasper brothers, Christian and Kris. In the end number 2 seeds Ross and Tom ran out comfortable winners to take on champions James and Guy once more in the final. This final game had the watchers entertained and enthralled, with spectacular dives, smashes and impossible retrieves on display - everything a top mens doubles should be. With Ross and Tom winning the first end easily, it seemed like an upset was on the cards, until James and Guy showed their experience to eventually just edge the match in a thrilling finale.

Results:

Mens singles - James Whetter bt Shane Maton 21-14 21-13

Ladies singles – Jo Philp bt Rose Willis 21-17 18-21 21-13

Ladies doubles – Jo Philp & Rose Willis bt Jan Santillo & Lynda Beer 21-18 21-14

Mixed doubles – James Whetter & Jo Philp bt Ross Lashbrook & Bron Wotton 22-20 21-15

Mens doubles – James Whetter & Guy Michell bt Ross Lashbrook & Tom Lyle 6-21 21-17 21-17


Plate Results: Winners

Mens singles – Christian Jasper

Ladies singles – Hester Luke

Ladies doubles – Hester & Daphne Luke

Mixed doubles – Tom Lyle & Lucinda Dennes

Mens doubles – Josh Pearce & Lee Bottrill



Wednesday 26 September 2012

30TH DUCHY “OPEN” PROVES A GREAT SUCCESS AND SEES AMY REDDAWAY SECURING A BRACE OF INAUGURAL TITLES, WITH JAMES WHETTER BEING NAMED “BEST CORNISH PLAYER”

Mens Singles winner, Wojtek Poszelezny - Photo: John Beach

THERE were two new singles winners, including one with a brace of victories, to her name, in the Duchy of Cornwall 30th Open Badminton Championships, which was staged, successfully, at Carn Brea Leisure Centre, Pool, Near Redruth, over the weekend of September 22/23, writes John Tresidder.
In addition, it proved a most fruitful weekend for the Devon County Squad, who harvested two titles - the Mixed Doubles and Men’s Doubles, with Somerset also going home with a brace - the Women’s Singles and a share in the Ladies’ Doubles.

The prestigious Event, A Tournament in the BADMINTON England Senior Silver Circuit, with the prize-fund having been swollen to: £1,340, including £320, for the sixteen losing semi-finalists in all five main events.

Furthermore, 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 115 players competed in the Championships, with competitors drawn from a good spread of 17 English and Welsh Counties, together with a welcome return party from Guernsey, in the Channel Islands and a large squad from Devon County.


Blue Ribband Events:

DAY ONE saw Amy Reddaway and Wojtek Poszelezny, unseeded, lifting the Men’s and Women’s blue ribband singles events, which attracted a promising entry of 64 and 24 competitors, respectively.

Second seeded Will Hilton-Jackson - Photo: John Beach
Somerset’s Miss Reddaway, the second favourite, with her first English Open victory, won fairly convincingly, in the final, 21/12, 21/13, over Vicki Jones, the defending champion and Welsh ranked number three lady, whilst Wojtek, Sussex-based and the former Polish No. 3 Junior, overcame the challenge of last year’s finalist, Will Hilton-Jackson, his county compatriot, 21/15, 21/15.

Wojtek, in the 1/4-finals, was seen to take quite a scalp, in a thriller, against Chris Hotchen, Gloucestershire, the top seed, winning, 18/21, 21/18, 23/21, with Hotchen thus denied a hat-trick of Duchy wins, in the process.

DAY TWO witnessed another feast of badminton in the Hall:

The Mixed Doubles Event commenced with six round-robin groups on the first day and culminated, on the Sunday morning, with the final being contested by Jamie Roberton and Claire Hannah, who went on to defeat the Host’s County number one players, James Whetter and Johanna Philp, from the St. Austell Bay and Camelford Clubs, respectively, 21/19, 21/16.

Photo: John Beach

Jamie and Hannah (pictured above), were also thrilled to lift an inaugural Duchy Title in the process.
Meanwhile, Amy Reddaway, made it a brace of Duchy victories, when she teamed up with Phillipa Broadbent, Dorset, to win the Women’s Doubles – a glorious first English Open win for Phillipa, as well.

Amy Reddaway and Phillipa Broadbent - Photo: John Beach
The popular Ladies duo, who were both “over the moon”, beat Sarah Gray and Alice King, the Sussex/Essex partnership, the top seeds, 21/11, 19/21, 21/19, in a pulsating 3-ended decider, final.

Photo: John Beach

Indeed, a few minutes after the exciting encounter, there was a pleasant surprise for the popular Miss Gray (pictured above), who was awarded the Duchy’s coveted Sporting Spirit Trophy.

Men’s Doubles proves a fitting finale to another exhilarating weekend:

Photo: John Beach
Devon’s Corby Brothers, Dan and Matt Corby (pictured above), the 2nd seeds, won their second Duchy Men’s Doubles when they accounted for Will Hilton-Jackson, and Mark Burtenshaw. the Sussex Outfit, seeded one, 21/16, 21/19.

Hilton-Jackson, the champion in 2010 and 2011 was therefore unable to achieve a remarkable hat-trick with three different partners, in successive years.

One & All were in agreement that the power play and exhausting rallies, would not have looked too much out of place on an International court, at times and had the spectators on the edge of their seats, throughout – therefore, congratulations are afforded to all four gentlemen.

Host’s Seniors and New Kids on the Block attract attention and success:

Parochially, there was an excellent entry of over thirty from the Host County, including numerous youngsters and the Cornwall Youth Badminton (CYB), Under-17 squad, sponsored by Dairy Crest Davidstow, complete, all gaining invaluable experience and practice, for the County Senior “Restricted” Championships, over the following weekend.

Shane Maton and Dave Harrington - Photo: John Beach
Shane Maton, the County “Restricted Champion, in 2011 and Bron Wotton, won the “Plate” singles events, with Maton, in tandem with Dave Harrington, going on to win the Plate Doubles. And, on day one, Rose Willis reached the semis of the Ladies’ Singles, losing to the eventual champion.

An interesting fact was that Miss Wotton, in the final, defeated her Leedstown Cousin Georgia Higgs, who was a London Olympic Flame Ambassador in the Spring (May 18) – arriving in the Aircraft, gold-coloured, at RNAS Culdrose, with Lord Coe, Princess Anne and David Beckham.

Kellen and Amy in sublime form:

Camborne’s 14-year-old Kellen Moore and Amy Polglase, aged 13, coached by Clif Morcom, Redruth, fought through two rounds of the Women’s Doubles, to the semi-finals – before going down, valiantly, in their debut Senior Tournament, 21/13, 21/11, to Sarah Gray and Alice King, seeded one.

Kellen Moore - Photo: John Beach

However, best wishes from Cornwall County Badminton, to the two young ladies, who collected £20 prize-money, apiece, in respect of their prowess on the court.
And, back to Day One, it was a memorable start for Miss Polglase, ranked seven at England U-13 level, last season. The dedicated and personable youngster, reaped a notable and well deserved win, when she out-pointed Bron. Wotton, the Cornwall 1st Teamer, 21/18, 21/14, in the Women’s Singles 1st Round.

Two Affable Parties of Youngsters:

Special mention for two affable parties of youngsters, who all hope to return to Carn Brea, in 2013:

Firstly, Guernsey Island, led by André Trebert (Parent and Coach), a Duchy player, from past years and, secondly, a talented squad of five - led by George Bevan, Coach, a former Duchy Doubles champion and Alistair Jones (Parent, formerly Devon County), the 1996 singles winner - drawn from Berkshire and Buckinghamshire Counties, whose Club and Base is the BADMINTON England “Win Badminton Performance Centre”, High Wycombe, Bucks.

Main Sponsors:

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

Meanwhile, The Countryman Inns Free Houses Group, from Piece, Carnkie, Near Redruth, together with Dales Renault, based at Scorrier & Summercourt and Linden Homes South West Ltd (Newton Abbot), are amongst the other generous Backers, of the Championships.

Hall Artwork by Roskear Primary & Nursery School, Roskear Camborne:

The Committee expresses its thanks to the Pupils of the local Roskear Primary & Nursery School, Roskear, Camborne, who worked with Linden Homes South West, to provide the delightful artwork, displayed on the hall banner.

Welcome Callers to Hall:

Amongst the welcome callers, were: Mike Avery, Cornwall Badminton President and wife, Pauline, with Mr. Avery attending to the presentation of the trophies and prize-money cheques on the Sunday afternoon;

Alan Williams, who was honoured to receive BADMINTON England National Lifetime Service Badminton Award, at the Event, in 2011; David Burgess, the retired Referee, from Barnstaple, North Devon.

* Duchy Committee of Management, 2012:

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

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

Duchy Committee's Official Photographer:
John Beach Photography, Camborne. Mobile: 07977 801 431

Allan Potter - New Referee in Charge:

Following the retirement of David Burgess, Barnstaple, after twenty five years of sterling service, the Duchy Committee’s Tournament Secretary, Linda Collins, in her opening address, welcomed the players and Allan Potter, from Gillingham, North Dorset, as the Referee, newly-appointed, for the weekend’s play.

Photo: John Beach

James Whetter (pictured above), Cornwall’s number one player, was the recipient of the Best Cornish Player Trophy. This was reward for him reaching the Mixed Final, (accompanying Jo Philp), as a seed and the Men’s Doubles 1/4-finals, in tandem with Guy Michell, his St. Austell Bay club-mate.

Duchy Founders:

In this, the Duchy’s 30th Anniversary Year, a timely reminder of the co-founders, who were in receipt of Prince Charles’s Royal Consent to name the event the Duchy of Cornwall, were:
The Late Pat Hollands, MBE (Tournament Secretary, 1982-1987); Beverlie Horton; Alan Williams; John Tresidder.

Cornwall’s David Hunt and Paul Harvey, registered the Men’s Doubles in 1982, the inaugural year and repeated this feat the following year, before also winning the Wessex Open, to become the England’s’ 13th ranked partnership.

Also, Guernsey’s Sally Podger, nee Leadbeater, England ranked one and World No. 5, won a hat-tick of triple-crowns in the first thee formative years.

And, it was also most fitting, that one of the Duchy’s largest ever crowds of supporters and spectators, gathered, to enjoy the scintillating badminton play, over two days.

Mrs. Collins wishes to convey grateful thanks to the following:

Allan Potter, the Referee, the sponsors, advertisers, players, supporters, spectators and helpers, alike, as well as Sharon Christie, Carn Brea’s Events’ Manager, Leisure Centre Management & Staff, together with Pat Bevis and her ZestCafe Ladies, who served up the delightful and well received lunches, over two days.

The Duchy Committee would like to thank John Beach for his delightful commissioned pictures on 22/23 September, 2012.

John Beach Photography, Camborne
Tel: 0797 780 1431
E-mail: admin@johnbeachphotography.co.uk
Website: www.johnbeachphotography.co.uk

DIARY: Finally, the 31st Duchy Open is scheduled for September 21st and 22nd, 2013, with everyone being most welcome.

30th DUCHY OF CORNWALL BADMINTON OPEN - SENIOR SILVER-CIRCUIT RESULTS:

1). Men’s Singles:
Semi-finals: Wojtek Poszelezny (Sussex), bt. Andy Penn (Hampshire), 19/21, 21/18, 21/11;
Will Hilton-Jackson (Sussex) bt. Russell Walker (Devon), 21/18, 21/14;
Final: Poszelezny bt. Hilton-Jackson, 21/15, 21/15.

2). Women’s Singles:
Semi-finals: Vicki Jones (Mid Glamorgan), defending champion, bt. Sarah Preece (Devon), 22/20; 19/21; 21/16;
Amy Reddaway (Somerset) bt. Rose Willis (Cornwall), 21/8, 21/19;
Final: Miss Reddaway bt. Miss Jones, 21/12, 21/13.

3). Men’s Doubles:
Semi-finals: Dan Corby and Matt Corby (brothers, both Devon) bt John Hepworth and Andy Penn (both Hampshire), 28/26, 21/15; Will Hilton-Jackson and Mark Burtenshaw (both Sussex) bt. Jamie Roberton and Russell Walker (both Devon), 21/18, 22/20;
Final: Corby and Corby bt. Hilton-Jackson and Burtenshaw, 21/16, 21/19.

4). Women’s Doubles:
Semi-finals: Amy Reddaway and Phillipa Broadbent (Somerset/Dorset), bt. Heather Crump and Nikita Smethurst (both Devon) 21/19, 21/15;
Sarah Gray and Alice King (Sussex/Essex), seeded one, bt. Kellen Moore and Amy Polglase (both Cornwall) 21/13, 21/11.
Final: Miss Reddaway and Miss Broadbent bt. Miss Gray and Miss King, 21/11, 19/21, 21/19

5). Mixed Doubles:
Semi-finals: Jamie Roberton and Claire Hannah (both Devon) bt. Russell Walker and Leanne Debenham (both Devon), 21/19, 17/21, 21/17;
James Whetter and Johanna Philp (both Cornwall), bt. John Hepworth and Alice King (Hampshire/Essex), 21/17, 21/14;
Final: Roberton and Miss Hannah bt. Whetter and Miss Philp, 21/19, 21/16.

“PLATE” EVENTS FOR MAIN DRAW 1ST ROUND LOSERS – FINALS:

1). Men’s Singles: Shane Maton (Cornwall) bt. Mark Burtenshaw (Sussex), 21/17;

2). Women’s Singles: Bronwen Wotton (Cornwall) bt. Georgia Higgs (Cornwall), 21/10;

3). Men’s Doubles: David Harrington and Shane Maton (both Cornwall) bt. Samuel Owens and Ryan Parker-Bowker, (both Devon), 21/15

4). Women’s Doubles: Suzanne Colwill and Leanne Debenham (both Devon), bt. Harriet Birt and Sarah-Jane Trask (both Somerset), 21/10.

5). Special Awards: Sporting Spirit: Sarah Gray (Sussex); Best Cornish Player: James Whetter, St. Austell Bay Club.

Full Results (pdf):







Monday 24 September 2012

ANNUAL SENIOR CHAMPIONSHIPS EAGERLY AWAITED THIS WEEKEND

THE CORNWALL COUNTY Badminton Association Annual Senior “Restricted” (“Closed”) Championships. 2012/2013, are being staged at Polkyth Leisure Centre, St. Austell, on this Weekend, Saturday and Sunday, September 29/30 (10.00 am start each day), writes John Tresidder.

The Men’s and Ladies’ Singles disciplines, the blue-ribband events, together with the Ladies’ Doubles, are being held on Saturday, with the Mixed Doubles and Men’s Doubles being contested on the second day, Sunday.

Lorna Riggs, is the Tournament Secretary and, also, a member of the County Selection Panel.

All five main disciplines are being organised on a Knock-out, format, with “Plate” competitions in all events.

Supporters and spectators will be most welcome to attend, with food and refreshments available in the Centre Café.

RESTRICTED SEEDS, 2012/2013:

1). Women’s Singles: Johanna Philp, Rose Willis, Emily James and Bronwen Wotton.

2). Men’s Singles: Shane Maton, James Whetter, Ross Lashbrook, Kris Jasper, Kahoo Tse, Dave Harrington, Josh Pearce, Kelvin Edwards.

3). Women’s Doubles: Emily James/Vicki Thomas, Rose Willis/Johanna Philp.

4). Men’s Doubles: JamesWhetter/Guy Michell, Tom Lyle/Ross Lashbrook, Shane Maton/Dave Harrington, Kelvin Edwards/Sam Spencer.

5). Mixed Doubles: James Whetter/Johanna Philp, Ross Lashbrook/Bronwen Wotton, Shane Maton /Janet Santillo, Bob Bell/Lynda Beer.

Monday 17 September 2012

DUCHY OPEN PREVIEW

ANOTHER BUMPER ENTRY OF 115 COMPETITORS, AS CHRIS & VICKI ARE INSTALLED AS FAVOURITES, FOR THIS WEEKEND’S DUCHY OPEN BADMINTON CHAMPIONSHIPS

ANOTHER bumper overall entry of 115, drawn from a good spread of seventeen English and Welsh counties, is competing in the Duchy of Cornwall 30th “Open” Badminton Championships, with two of last year’s champions defending in two disciplines.

The prestigious Event, A Tournament in the BADMINTON England Senior Silver Circuit, is scheduled for Carn Brea Leisure Centre, Pool, Nr. Redruth, its usual Base, on Saturday and Sunday, September 22/23, writes John Tresidder. The prize-fund has been swollen to: £1,340, including £320, for the 16 losing semi-finalists in all five main events for the famous Tournament, promoted by The Cornwall County Badminton Association and, which 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, Newton Abbot - www.tagsports.co.uk, in conjunction with YONEX UK LTD, have joined forces, once more, as the Tournament’s joint main sponsors. Meanwhile, The Countryman Inns Free Houses Group, from Piece, Carnkie, Near Redruth, together with Dales Renault, based at Scorrier & Summercourt and Linden Homes South West Ltd (Newton Abbot), are amongst the other generous Backers, of the Championships.

Programme-of-Events (10.00am start each day): Saturday, 22nd September: Men’s and Ladies’ Singles, followed by Mixed Doubles, extending to the semi-finals stage on the Saturday evening. Knock Out “Plate” competitions, for 1st round losers, time permitting.

Sunday, 23rd September: * Mixed Doubles Semi-finals and the Final, plus Men’s and Ladies’ Level Doubles. * NB: If the Referee feels there is a window of opportunity, then the Mixed Doubles semi-finals will be contested on the Saturday evening.

“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. Chris and Vicki favourites to retain blue ribband events: On to the play - Mid-Glamorgan’s Vicki Jones, ranked Welsh number three, along with Chris Hotchen, from Gloucestershire, the defending champions, have been installed as the favourites to retain the Men’s and Ladies’ blue ribband singles titles.

Furthermore, in the other three disciplines, the Will Hilton-Jackson/Mark Burtenshaw (both Sussex) and Sarah Gray/Alice King (Sussex/Essex) partnerships, head the seedings in the Men’s and Ladies’ Level Doubles, with Hilton-Jackson striving for a remarkable third successive outright win, with different partners.

Meanwhile, the Mixed Doubles, which comprises six pairings in the group round robin phase, before reverting to the Knock-Out format, in the quarter-finals, has the Devon duo, Mark Trebble and Heather Crump, seeded to come through as the winners, with, Cornwall’s number one players, James Whetter and Johanna Philp, who was a semi-finalist in 2011, being one of the four 2/5 seeds.

Encouraging Entry from the Host:

Meanwhile, amongst Kernow’s contingent, which is in excess of 30, the Cornwall Youth Badminton Under-17 Squad, sponsored by Dairy Crest Davidstow, makers of Cornish Cathedral City Cheese, has entered as a complete unit. Cath Bick and Sue Cooper, the CYB U-17 co-managers, commented proudly: “Our Under-17 youngsters are looking forward to the challenge and the camaraderie of this Senior Duchy Open Tournament. “And, it will prove to be invaluable in their badminton development, including providing useful match practice, for the new South West Counties Junior ICC Campaign, 2012/2013, which gets underway soon.” In addition, three members are making senior tournament debuts - Liam Sillifant, aged 15, from Launceston College, who trains at the BADMINTON England High Performance Centre, University of Exeter, together with Kellen Moore and Amy Polglase, both aged 13, so dedicated and personable - students at the Camborne Science and International Academy, Camborne. *

Allan Potter - new Referee in Charge:

Following the retirement of Mr. David Burgess, Barnstaple, after twenty five years of sterling service, the Duchy Committee has appointed Mr. Allan Potter, from Dorset, as the Referee for the weekend. * Duchy Committee of Management, 2012: Mrs. Linda Collins: Chairman & Hon. Tournament Secretary; Mr. Allan Potter Hon Referee; Mr. Paul Martin: Hon. Treasurer; Mr. Paul Collins: Hon. Tournament Co-ordinator; Mr. John Tresidder: Hon. Press/Promotions Officer. Hall Artwork by Roskear C.P. School:

The Committee wish to thank the Pupils of the local Roskear C.P School, Camborne, who worked with Linden Homes South West, to provide the delightful artwork, displayed on the hall banner. And, the School Staff & Pupils and, indeed, all children, are cordially invited to attend the badminton proceedings, along with Parents and Guardians. 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 22/23, 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, as well as being posted on the Cornwall County Badminton Ass’n Website: www.cornwallbadminton.co.uk

Johanna Philp, aged 19, from Port Isaac, pictured with her impressive array of badminton trophies, accrued from when she was a Cornwall Youth Badminton Star, up to the current day, as Cornwall's No. 1 senior lady player. Jo, along with her partner, James Whetter (St. Austell Bay Club), has been installed as one of the six seeds in the 30th Duchy Open’s Mixed Doubles competition. Jo was also awarded the Duchy’s Best Cornish Player Trophy, in 2011 and now looks forward to going up to the University of Plymouth, to Read Midwifery, this month, with the Cornwall Badminton Community wishing her well with her Hons. Degree Academic Studies & In-house Hospital Training.

30TH DUCHY OPEN 2012 - SEEDS

LADIES’ SINGLES: 1). Vicki Jones, Mid-Glamorgan, defending champion; 2). Amy Reddaway, Somerset; 3). Sarah Gray, Sussex; 4). Alice King, Essex.

MEN’S SINGLES: 1. Chris Hotchen, Gloucestershire - defending champion; 2: Will Hilton-Jackson, Sussex; 3/4: Jamie Kilgariff, Buckinghamshire; Mark Trebble, Devon; Jack Kinmond, Berkshire; Daniel Chow, Devon; Gareth Day, Mid-Glamorgan; Mark Burtenshaw, Sussex.

LADIES’ DOUBLES: 1: Sarah Gray and Alice King, Sussex/Essex; 2: Nikita Smethurst and Heather Crump, both Devon.

MEN’S DOUBLES: 1: Will HiIton-Jackson and Mark Burtenshaw, both Sussex; 2: Matthew Corby and Daniel Corby, brothers, both Devon, finalists in 2011; 3: Mark Trebble and Vernon Smeed, both Devon; 4: John Hepworth and Andy Penn, both Hampshire.

MIXED DOUBLES: “ROUND-ROBIN” GROUPS, THEN REVERTING TO KNOCK-OUT, FROM 1/4-FINALS TO FINAL, INCLUSIVE: 1 & 2: Groups A & F: 1: Mark Trebble and Heather Crump, both Devon; 2: John Hepworth and Alice King, Hampshire/Essex. 2/5 Groups, inclusive: Groups, B, C, D & E, respectively: Vernon Smeed and Nikita Smethurst, both Devon; Jamie Roberton and Claire Hannah, both Devon; Liam Cordery and Jennifer Sargeant, both Dorset; James Whetter and Johanna Philp, both Cornwall.

Thursday 23 August 2012

Cornwall Restricted Championships.

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

The tournament will be held on Saturday 29th, and Sunday 30th September, at Polkyth Leisure Centre
The closing date for entries is Sunday September 23rd and entry forms can be downloaded by clicking HERE , or from the download section on the right of the Cornwall Badminton website.

Wednesday 22 August 2012

DUCHY OF CORNWALL 30TH “OPEN” BADMINTON CHAMPIONSHIPS, 2012

ENTRIES CLOSE THIS SATURDAY, 1ST SEPTEMBER.


THE Duchy of Cornwall 30th “Open” Badminton Championships A Tournament in the BADMINTON England Senior Silver Circuit, is scheduled for Carn Brea Leisure Centre, Pool, Near Redruth, on Saturday and Sunday, September 22/23, writes John Tresidder.

Entry forms have been forwarded to around 130 competitors and one can also be downloaded, from the Cornwall County Badminton Association and BADMINTON England Websites. The closing date for completed entries is this Saturday, 1st September.

www.cornwallbadminton.co.uk

www.badmintonengland.co.uk

If you feel your name is not included on the Duchy’s Competitor Database, then contact: Mrs. Linda Collins, TEL: 01209 – 713 794, OR: E-MAIL: lindahelston56@aol.com

The prize-fund has been duly increased to: £1,340, including £320, for the 16 losing semi-finalists in all five main events and, 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, Newton Abbot - www.tagsports.co.uk, in conjunction with YONEX UK LTD, have joined forces, once more, as the Tournament’s joint main sponsors.

Friday 18 May 2012

Georgia Higgs to join David Beckham for Cornwall Olympic torch ceremony

NOT ONLY HAS CORNWALL JUNIOR PLAYER GEORGIA HIGGS BEEN SELECTED AS ONE OF THE FIVE YOUNG SPORTS AMBASSADORS TO BRING THE OLYMPIC FLAME BACK TO CORNWALL, SHE WILL ALSO BE DOING THIS IN THE COMPANY OF DAVID BECKHAM!!


Georgia was selected from Helston College for her commitment to sport and for promoting the Olympic values of friendship, excellence and respect within the college. Georgia has been helping to organise a local primary school festival inspired by the London 2012 Games and including an opening ceremony.

Georgia said: "I have always loved participating in numerous sports, so to be given the opportunity to partake in the world’s greatest sporting event is just incredible. I'm so proud to be part of this experience and to bring the Flame back to Britain, as well as my home county of Cornwall, is utterly amazing. I know it will be something I will always remember!"

Georgia, David Beckham, and the rest of the party will head to Athens for Friday’s official handover ceremony of the Olympic flame from Greece to the UK, and bring it back to RNAS Culdrose ahead of the torch relay, which begins at Land’s End on Saturday morning.

See full Falmouth Packet Story click here

Saturday 12 May 2012

CORNWALL'S BOB BELL SECURES 4TH ALL-ENGLAND "OPEN" TITLE

THE 96TH ALL-ENGLAND Seniors "Open" Badminton Championships were staged at the BADMINTON England National Badminton Centre, Milton Keynes, from: April 19 - 22, writes John Tresidder.

Bob Bell, a member of the Tecans Badminton Club, based at Pool Community School, near Redruth, in partnership with Janet Fletcher, from Derbyshire, lifted the Mixed Doubles Event, where they accounted for the holders, Christian Hansen and Gitte Rasmussen, from Denmark.

This was Bob's fourth title in the prestigious Chmapionships and the success comes on top of him being awarded numerous. England International Veterans Caps, to date, as well as being bestowed with the supreme honour of captaining the Rest of Europe Vets v Denmark, in the past.

Players from fourteen countries, as far afield as Malaysia and Canada, were represented, with 320 competitors, in total competing over the four days of the competition.

Bob, a retired Science Teacher, who is also a playing member of the Cornwall County Senior 2nd Team commented:

"It was a fantastic Event and I was delighted to register my 4th All England Seniors Title, this time in tandem with Janet Fletcher.

"In addition my Club, Tecans, has experienced a great deal of success for this 2011/2012 season, winning the West Cornwall Badminton League's Combination, Mixed and Men's Divisions.

"These successes would have made our Tecans Founder and Club Secretary, the Late Pat Hollands, MBE, who passed away in 2010, a very proud Lady, indeed."

Lynda Beer, another Cornwall County player, had a tough draw in the All-England with her O50 partner, Yorkshire's Carl Sadler However, the combination out-pointed a Singapore pair, but went down, valiantly to a German seeded pair.

Preparations underway for Sofia, in Autumn:

Bob's next Tournament is the European Seniors' Championships, scheduled for September, 2012, in Sofia, Bulgaria, where he has been selected to play International O60 Men's Level Doubles and Mixed Doubles, with Lynda chosen to play in the O50 Ladies' Team in the same Event.

Bob Bell continued: "In the last Europeans, held in Ireland, in 2010, I was awarded silver and bronze medals and would like to win a gold, this time around - my keeping fingers crossed."

Bob and Lynda - well done, from the Cornwall County Badminton Association. Have a relaxing Summer and best wishes for the circuit training, in preparation for Sofia.



The Jubilant All-England, 2012, Seniors "Open", Mixed Doubles Champions, Derbyshire's Janet Fletcher and Bob Bell (Cornwall), pictured at the Badminton England National Badminton Centre, Milton Keynes, in April.

Friday 27 April 2012

Cornwall 2nd Team Season Report

Played 8: Won 5 - Lost 3

The Kernow 2nds got off to a flying start this season, with convincing victories over Somerset and Wiltshire respectively. Unfortunately, there was a mid-season dip with back to back defeats against Dorset 3 (who would turn out to be our nemesis) and the Isle of Wight, however, our guys and gals got back on track with another impressive win against Wiltshire 3 in the New Year. So, with just 2 more fixtures to play, we were cautiously optimistic about getting through to the divisional play-offs. But, on an extremely cold and wet Sunday in March, the black and golds made their way up to Dorset’s home venue near Bournemouth. The temperature of the ‘hangar’ like hall was painfully cold and had a massive effect on the speed of the shuttles, which, unfortunately, our opposition dealt better with than us. After a valiant effort by all, we were just beaten 6-9. The mood was sombre not made any better by the lack of showering facilities and no food, (just tea and coffee). The homeward journey was the longest and most miserable ever.

The whole team are to be commended for digging in deep and putting the experience behind them as we came out victorious against the Isle of Wight in the final match of the season.

The future looks promising with some of our talented CYB troupe hopefully looking forward to complimenting the experienced core of players in the 2nd team who have this season, given gritty and determined performances in every match.

Squad for season 2011/12:

Jan Santillo, Lynda Beer, Laura Harper, Rose Willis, Beth Rich, Bron Wotton, Beth Wotton, Lorna Riggs

Bob Bell, Kelvin Edwards, Sam Spencer, Dave Harrington, Tom Lyle, Josh Pearce, Chris Glasson, Tony Clark, Tony Marshall.

Lorna Riggs - Team Manager

Monday 16 April 2012

2012 Inter Counties Competition 17-21


Twenty one counties made the trip to Hertfordshire’s impressive sports village, for the 17-21 Inter Counties Competition (ICC) 2012. The well established event boasts a format similar to that of international play with counties fighting for six matches per fixture made up of one men’s/ladies singles; one men’s/ladies level doubles and two mixed doubles.

The Cornish team:

Ross Lashbrook
Bron Wotton
Tony Marshall
Daphne Luke
Christian Jasper
Beth Wotton
Sam Spencer
Lorna Garbett

Play started early on the Saturday with the Cornish head to head with Somerset in the first match. Last year saw the Duchy destroy their Southwest rivals 6-0, but the score line this time was quite different. The match ended three games all and on count back the Duchy lost out by just 12 points. Spirits had to be lifted for the next tie against Leinster whose team in the past has consisted of a plethora of Irish internationals. This year was no exception, and no luck was needed by the Irish outfit taking the tie 6-0. Performances from Christian Jasper in the men’s singles and Tony Marshall and Lorna Garbett in mixed doubles were worthy of note. They were all within a whisker of taking their games to three ends.

This placed the Cornish in the groups playing for the 15-21 positions, those extra 12 points against Somerset costing the opportunity to play in the higher 8-14 group.

The last match of the day brought about the fixture against Cambridgeshire, although not normally known as a strong county for badminton they were none the less a clever outfit of players. Both Christian and Daphne Luke set the team off to a good start both winning through tough three enders. Ross Lashbrook and Sam Spencer maintained this winning streak with a comprehensive level doubles result. As did the Wotton sisters Beth and older sibling Bron, hanging on and out thinking their opponents to produce yet another win. Lashbrook and Bron skillfully won through in their mixed with an aggressive display of jump smashes, sealing a 5-1 victory.

The following day saw the Cornish start with a tough tie against Derbyshire. Tactically astute Jasper fended off a tough opponent giving a great start for the Duchy. The Wotton sisters having tasted success the previous day, once again won through. The call for a games count back materialised after Lashbrook and Bron sealed an impressive three end nail biting affair. Once again the Duchy were unlucky on the count back with victory going to Derbyshire eight games overall to Cornwall’s six.

The final tie brought another mouth watering South west header against Gloucestershire with victory ensuring 17th place. Having won their previous game and on an obvious high, would this be a double for Gloucester? Sadly for the Duchy they ran out of steam and although fighting, they went down 4-2. Some great badminton was seen over the weekend and the experience would be utilised for another day. Cornwall’s final placing eighteenth.

Many thanks go to Dave Spencer, without his effort and help the opportunity for the players to experience this event would not have happened.

CORNWALL 2012 ICT BADMINTON SUCCESS

NOTTINGHAM UNIVERSITY 12-15TH APRIL



The 2012 Cornwall Inter Counties Team travelled to Nottingham University on Wednesday 11th April to compete for the 6th consecutive year in the Prestigious National Under 17 4 day Team Event. The Team were intending to build on last seasons best ever 34th place.

The ICT places great demands on the 40 Team of 5 boys and 5 girls over a gruelling 10 match format. The Players from across England and Northern Ireland are of top International and National standard,including the current European U17 Boys singles champion.

Cornwall started the Tournament after a 12 month programme of out of county tournament commitments with a grade 3 seeding in their first round group. A hard but close fought match v Leiscestershire resulted in a 7-3 win to their opponents. Performances were promising with the Team Captain Kris Jasper and Hester Luke both taking impressive wins at no1 singles.

The second match v Cheshire was always going to need some tactical changes and although losing 10-0,performances by both Chris Cooper and Jake Brazewell in their singles against top opposition were impressive. This was all building to a climatic match v Durham in the evening to see which team moved into a higher group on the second day.

The match commenced at 7pm. The atmosphere was loud and intense with vocal support from parents who had travelled from both counties being present in the University 12 court hall. A nail biting no1 boys doubles win by Kris and Simon Cox meant that after 2 hours 15 minutes on court it came down to Georgia Higgs and Hester Luke at no2 Girls Doubles to win in 2 ends and take the Duchy through to a potentially great second day. A fantastic calm display by both girls under intense attacking pressure from their opponents won the day. Cornwall drawing 5-5 but winning by 4 ends on a countback score.

The second day meant a 9am match. Cornwall was on court at 8.30am in preparation and stormed through a Northumberland team right from the start. A strong team performance meant a 7-3 victory to the Duchy and the start of a consistent move up through the Tournament positions.

Match 2 against Staffordshire was a potential pitfall with top ranked boys and girls within their ranks. Cornwall responded with what is arguably their best ever performance and certainly their best match result ever at the ICT. 9-1 to Cornwall,some simply outstanding performances,Hannah Robertson and Kris Jasper storming through their opponents at no1 mixed,with purposeful attacking shot selection. Chris Cooper and Sam Payne taking an inspirational game of mens doubles at no2,both girls pairings of Abi Logg and Hannah,Georgia and Hester winning in 2 ends. The match of the contest saw Kris take on a top quality Silver boy. What a spectacle, Kris winning in 3 ends.

Match 3 left the Duchy contemplating a top 30 finish on day 4. Guernsey stood in the way but Cornwall were not to be denied with a professional 7-3 victory. After a slight early match wobble the girls took control in their games to increase the scoreboard.

Day 3 saw a pivotal match against Worcestershire to decide who reached the 21-25 group stage. Cornwall fought for everything, our no1 girls doubles being outstanding taking a fantastic match in the 3rd end 15-12,Kris took on a Gold standard top 5 U15 boy. Another enthralling match saw another Duchy win.

However a narrow loss in the mens doubles matches meant an eventual 6-4 loss, meaning a deciding group of 25-28.

The players regrouped and took on Oxfordshire. The game of the match was undoubtably Jake Brazewell at no2 boys singles. Games go to 15 points at the ICT, thereafter it is extended play to a sudden death single point win at 20 all. After a titanic battle of nearly 30 minutes on court Jake stood at 19-19. He calmed himself and took the first end 21-19 !!!

Jake retained his concentration to win in two ends. However the Duchy ended with a 6-4 defeat. The final match of a hard day found local South West rivals Gloucester on the court. This was going to come down to success or not in the mixed doubles with some highly rated girls in the Gloucester team. Kris and Hannah won in 3,Rachael Collard and Chris won a comfortable first end. The opposition fought back and it resulted in a 3rd end. With the score 14-10 match point to their opponents Chris and Rachael found a resilience to pull back to 14-14. The game went head to head to 20-20,the last point going to Gloucester 21-20 !! What a game !

An unexpected loss in the Boys at no1 meant an unexpected 6-4 loss to Gloucester.

Undeterred the team left the hall in high spirits with a final match on day 4 against Cumbria to contemplate.

Some tired players walked out on both sides at 12 noon on the last day. A steady start saw a even match developing. Kris again simply breathtaking in defeating a U17 Gold Singles player. Jake showing incredible fortitude to go 3 ends at no2 singles losing 17-15 in the third,another monumental effort by Jake. The match started to drift away from the Duchy but Georgia and Hester remained resilient taking another great victory in two ends in their doubles. Final score 8-2 to Cumbria. A great match to finish with great sportsmanship being shown on both sides of the court throughout the match.

A final position of 28 from 40 Teams surpasses last years best ever finish of 34 and puts the County in the top 30 team bracket at the National level for the first time in their history. An incredible feat by the team competing at such a high level against top Nationally ranked players.

This left a courtside Team photo opportunity to be completed and a return to the University to watch the final match Yorkshire v Ulster for the 2012 Trophy.

Yorkshire eventually winning the ICT for the 17th year out of 46 years of Tournaments.

The team returned home late on the Sunday evening with our final players arriving in Penzance some 350 miles from the competition well after midnight.

TEAM

KRIS JASPER (LAUNCESTON)
CAPT.JAKE BRAZEWELL (NEWQUAY)
SIMON COX (WADEBRIDGE)
CHRIS COOPER (PENRYN)
SAM PAYNE (CALLINGTON)

ABI LOGG (LAUNCESTON)CAPT
HESTER LUKE (PENZANCE)
RACHAEL COLLARD (CALLINGTON)
GEORGIA HIGGS (HELSTON)
HANNAH ROBERTSON (CALLINGTON)

Team Managers ; Sue Cooper,Cathryn Bick,Jon Wotton.

A sincere thank you to our main sponsors DAIRY CREST DAVIDSTOW. TAG SPORTS and Exhibit 1 print and Embroidery for such professional kit.



Sunday 15 April 2012

Cornwall Veterans 40s Team beat Avon


Completing a fine weekend for Cornish Badminton and following on from the 1st team’s epic victory over Guernsey, the 40s team had their own stunning win the next day, beating the visitors from Avon 9 – 3.

Strengthened by some new blood in the shape of Nick Phelps who partnered Bob Bell to power their way to 2 mens doubles success, the 40s looked too strong for Avon from the start.

In the other mens, Pete Bazin and Adam Widdison were very unlucky to lose a tight 3 ender to the second Avon mens, before losing to the first pair, despite some valiant defending.

The Cornwall women were in fine form to notch up all 4 of the ladies doubles, 3 going to 3 ends and with some nail-biting rallies. Jan Santillo and Lynda Beer continued their usual winning ways in both their games, and Rachel Irish and Lorna Riggs battled their way through 2 close games to emerge victorious.

Cornwall needed just 1 more game in the mixed doubles to secure the match, and in the end, they won 3 out of the 4 to make it a comfortable, excellent result. Bob and Lynda were narrowly beaten in the top slot, but Nick and Rachel, Pete and Lorna, plus Adam and Jan all won their 3 enders. 7 of the 12 games in the match had gone the distance, with Cornwall winning 6 of them – showing the home team’s strength, fitness and determination to win for one and all.

The season now closes with Cornwall 40s sitting mid table, an good improvement on previous years and giving positive signs for the next season to come.



Photo shows the winning Cornwall 40s team – left to right –

Pete Bazin, Lynda Beer, Bob Bell, Jan Santillo, Adam Widdison (missing from photo Rachel Irish)

Saturday 14 April 2012

Cornwall’s Badminton Champions finish in style



For the season’s finale, the new Division 3 champions, Cornwall, took on the visiting Guernsey 1st team at Polkyth Leisure Centre. The Cornish team were missing 3 regular players due to other commitments, so were expecting a tough fight for their last match this year.

The home men singles players, James Whetter and Shane Maton, started the game off in fine style, with 2 excellent victories against their island opponents. Rose Willis, playing in the number 1 ladies slot for the first time, did well to take this game to 3 ends and just lost out, although Emily James helped the team to a strong 3-1 lead by winning her singles impressively.

The mens doubles was a Cornish black and gold whitewash, with James in stunning form alongside his partner Guy Michell, and the newer pairing of Shane and Tom Lyle looking good in winning all their games.

Guernsey had brought a strong ladies team, and their first pair proved too good for both Rose and Jan Santillo who had stepped in for Cornwall at the last minute, as well as Emily and Vicki Thomas. Rose and Jan used all their experience and turned the second ladies round in their Cornwall’s favour, winning the match with an exceptional result, while Emily and Vicki played well in their second match, being very unlucky to just lose a tight 3 ender.

Cornwall needed to win at least 2 of the 3 mixed doubles to gain their 3rd maximum point victory in a row, and the watching crowd had plenty to cheer about as Tom and Vicki secured the first win in just 2 ends of attacking, solid play. Guy and Jan were up against an experienced Guernsey pair in the number 2 slot, and narrowly lost in 2 ends, leaving James and Rose as top pair to bring home the victory. This they duly did, but only after a nervous games split to take the final game to the wire, when James and Rose turned on the style in the third, and completed a fine performance to bring the final score to 10 games to 5.

This fantastic win, means Cornwall have won the Division by 4 clear points over Berkshire, and takes them up to Division 2 next season, as high as any Cornish team have been in over 30 years – a truly memorable achievement for this young team.

James in supreme form:


John Tresidder, the Cornwall Badminton Press Officer, who was a delighted spectator at the match, enjoyed it thoroughly and commented: “The Cornwall Team, overall, gave their All and were magnificent, with James Whetter, in particular, with his 4/4 victories, seen to be in supreme form throughout the proceedings.
“James now has more fitness, consistency and touch, allied to his old power game, at his disposal and will relish the challenge of the taking on the likes of Devon I, in the new ICC Regional 2 campaign, starting in the Autumn.”
Team players – James Whetter, Shane Maton, Guy Michell, Tom Lyle, Rose Willis, Emily James, Vicki Thomas, Jan Santillo.
Missing this match – Ross Lashbrook, Jo Philp and Bronwen Wotton.

Photo, left to right –
Emily James, James Whetter, Jan Santillo, Guy Michell, Rose Willis, Shane Maton, Vicki Thomas (missing from photo Tom Lyle)

Wednesday 4 April 2012

CORNWALL CHIEFS BECOME ICC REGIONAL 3 CHAMPIONS

CORNWALL CHIEFS WIN SUPERBLY, 10-5, AT READING AND BECOME ICC REGIONAL 3 CHAMPIONS, WITH ONE MATCH REMAINING

CORNWALL’S top badminton stars set off on the long trek to Reading, last Sunday (April 1), hoping for a narrow victory over their promotion rivals, Berkshire County, who were sitting two points clear at the top of the table. Cornwall had narrowly beaten Berkshire at home, by 8 rubbers to 7, earlier in the season, writes Sue Biscoe.

Straight into the singles, after the four-hour drive, Cornwall’s Ladies’ singles players, Johanna Philp and Rose Willis quickly and impressively accounted for their Berkshire counterparts, as did James Whetter in the Men’s Singles, against a hard-hitting Chinese player. Shane Maton, in the number one spot for Cornwall did well to go to 3 ends, but found the Berkshire man just too mobile to handle, and so the Host County started the Level Doubles’ discipline, in a strong position -at 3 games to 1 up.

Things became much more tense as the Berkshire 1st Men’s pairing proved too dominant for both James and Guy Michell, as well as Ross Lashbrook and Tom Lyle, Cornwall’s second Men’s duo. The Cornish men then turned things around and both beat the second Berkshire pair in fine style with some excellent displays of attack and defence.

Four Ladies’ rubbers go to the wire:
Three out of the four Ladies’ Doubles went to the wire, with one game apiece, Jo and Rose winning both of theirs with consistent, probing badminton and steady play. Bronwen Wotton and Emily James eventually won through against the second pair in a game where tight, drop-shots and cross-courts dominated, but just lost out to the first Berkshire women pair

So the match was won already, going into the Mixed Doubles, at 8 games to 4, and the jubilant Cornwall team were suddenly aiming for all 3 points if they could win at least 2 out of the 3 mixed games. James and Jo showed the way with a fantastic victory over the first pair, Guy and Rose just lost in 3 ends to the second, leaving Ross and Bronwen with the last chance at number 3 mixed. Three tight ends later in an exciting, see-sawing game, and the Cornish pair were there, a great win for them and the team overall.

Chiefs final match – next Saturday, when all roads will lead to St. Austell:

This 10-5 handsome victory, with the maximum three points, takes Cornwall Chiefs one point clear at the top of Division 3, and means that they cannot now be caught at this late stage of the season. They have achieved this amazing result, still, with one game in hand, at home to Guernsey, next Saturday, April 14 (2.00 pm), at Polkyth Leisure Centre, St Austell, when supporters and spectators are very welcome.

And, spectators can be assured that the Team, with an unassailable lead, in Division 3, will be going flat out, as usual, to beat the Visitors, from the Channel Islands.

NB: Team photo call: is at 1.45 pm in the Hall.

To win promotion to BADMINTON England’s Inter-County Championship (ICC) Division 2, for the 2012-2013 campaign, thus playing against some of the top flight teams, is an excellent achievement for this young team, the first time in some 30 years, that Cornwall Badminton has competed at this level. It also indicates the healthy state of Kernow Badminton, including a thriving Cornwall Youth Badminton scene, sponsored by Dairy Crest Davidstow.

Cornwall Badminton 1st team – James Whetter, Shane Maton, Guy Michell,

Ross Lashbrook, Tom Lyle, Johanna Philp, Rose Willis, Bronwen Wotton,

Emily James.

Other squad players – Vicki Thomas and Rachel Irish.

Co-managers - Brian Hannibal and Sue Biscoe, who is also the County Match Secretary.

Friday 30 March 2012

CAMBORNE STAR’S FANTASTIC SEASON


L/R: Jubilant - Amy Polglase (Cornwall) and Ellen Jennings, from Hertfordshire, pictured after being awarded Bronze Medals for becoming semi-finalists in the Girls’ Under-13 Doubles at the England National Badminton Championships, held at the University of Nottingham on March 17/18.

Young Camborne Badminton star, Amy Polglase, aged 13, ranked England number eight and with a personal coach in Mr. Clif Morcom, Redruth, has experienced a truly memorable season, which concludes soon, writes John Tresidder.

Her first School was Kehelland County Primary, near Camborne and she then graduated to Camborne Science College, known as Camborne Science & International Academy, today.

At the Science College, early on, she attended a Badminton Taster session course, organised by Mr. Tony Wong, coach and her love of the sport spiralled after that, with her proceeding to play representative badminton for the Academy.

Amy is a member of the First Edition Junior Club, based in the Sports Hall at Cornwall College, Pool, near Redruth, who meet on Saturday mornings and are sponsored by The Redruth Charity Trust.

The 2011/2012 campaign has seen her harvesting numerous titles, including the Cornwall Under-13 girls’ singles, level doubles and mixed doubles, securing a superb hat-trick, in the process, as well as the Under-15 girls’ doubles and mixed doubles titles. Amy has also played in the County Under-17 championships and has beaten some of the squad members, in tournaments.

Amy Strikes England GOLD:

And, after her exploits and good tournament results, at SILVER level, IN and OUT of the Duchy, in the 2011-2012 season, she graduated to become a BADMINTON England GOLD standard player, the first youngster to be bestowed with this honour, in Cornish Badminton history.

Amy also turns out for The CYB Under-15 team, sponsored by Dairy Crest Davidstow, where, in the Girls’ Doubles, she has partnered Kellen Moore, another Camborne Badminton star, in the number one slot.

And, with the affable young ladies’ phenomenal progress on court, the general consensus is, that both Amy and Kellen, will be challenging for a county senior second team berth and then the Cornwall 1st Team - the “Chiefs” - in the not too distant future.

England Under-13 semi-finalist:

Miss Polglase recently experienced a most exciting and fruitful weekend, at the University of Nottingham, on March 17/18.

Amy, partnering Ellen Jennings, from Hertfordshire, proceeded to reach the semi-finals of the National Under-13 Girls’ Doubles Event, where the duo were presented with prestigious Bronze Medals for their truly sterling efforts.

Amy, well done, indeed, from the Cornwall Youth Badminton Organisation and Dairy Crest Davidstow. What a wonderful early Easter Present and best wishes for next season.

Finally, Amy was formerly a member of the Swallows of Helston Gym Club, for five years and her trademark - sublime poise and balance, allied to springy, on-the-toes footwork, on her beloved badminton court, owes a great deal to these formative years of gymnastic training.