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CORNWALL RESTRICTED CHAMPIONSHIPS - FIRST DAY REVIEW
Large entry This season’s tournament showed the biggest entry for several years, with 54 competitors. The numbers were boosted by several junior competitors, encouraged by the Cornwall Badminton Development Officer, Kath Wotton who was present to watch over the singles events. The juniors proved their ability to compete at a senior level, showing the effectiveness of the CYB training and development programme. First day upset Friday evening saw the singles disciplines being completed, with a shock in the ladies singles. Emily James, 15, out-pointed Janet Santillo, a county first team player, to take the title in the ‘round robin’ event. Emily displayed a natural movement around the court, with the stroke play to match, resulting in her first senior title. Tough games The mens singles event was hard fought, with several competitors of similar strength fighting to make the final. The draw brought county second team players Rob Freer and David Harrington together in the first round, with a marathon game ensuing. After almost 50 minutes, David emerged the winner, after a third deciding end. Final match The County committee’s seeding proved correct, with both seeds making it through to the final. A well matched game saw the victor, James Whetter, overcome the no. 1 seed Guy Michell in a game that lasted past the 10pm hall booking. Many thanks to the generous duty manager, Adam Riddle, who ensured that play could continue to a finish. Guy took the first set 21/15, pulling clear after a long spell of serve being exchanged back and forth. James rallied hard to ensure a second set victory 21/14 despite amazing court coverage by his opponent. The deciding end showed both players starting to tire, and James’ determination and tactical play saw him emerge as the winner. Plate event A plate event was also run, for the benefit of first-game losers. The strength of entry was shown by a succession of close games, with Richard Andrews emerging winner over Tom Lyle 21/15. Spectators The singles event drew several spectators with friends and family enjoying the close matches. Support was shown by the CCBA’s Honorary President, Mike Avery with his wife Pauline. Also present was the County treasurer/secretary and Mid-Cornwall league secretary, Lyndon Allen, with his wife Penny. A photographer was on hand to take pictures of the action – watch the local press for reports. Finally, selector Brian Hannibal deserves thanks for keeping close control through the evening, organising games, issuing shuttles, and updating the score sheets. RESULTS:
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