British Over 50s Amateur Singles 2017
Final: Simon Shenkman bt Simon Barker 6/4 6/4
Simon Shenkman from Manchester, World Over 50s Amateur Singles Champion in 2015, won the 2017 British Over 50s Amateur Championship at Lord's on Sunday 26 November getting his name on the Bridgeman Cup for the first time. Shenkman, seeded 2, beat RTC stalwart and GB Over 50s international Simon Barker 6-4, 6-4 in a high quality match with outstanding gets by both players and many thrilling restes on the fast Lord's court.
Earlier in the day Barker, seeded 3, had an excellent win over top seed John Prenn, who was unable to add to his 4 previous wins in this Championship, and Shenkman decisively beat fourth seed Peter Holmes from Prested Hall, who had prevailed in his quarter final despite a spirited comeback by the fifth seed. MCC's Jolyon Symonds.
Elsewhere in the 16 player draw MCC's Simon Talbot-Williams (blame The Saint for the prevalence of Simons in this age group!) beat Jesmond's Richard MacAlister in a 3 set thriller, sixth seed Anthony Jenks from Queens was tantalisingly close to taking a set from Barker and the veteran John Ward demonstrated that his serving and returning are still very challenging for much younger opponents before retiring at one set all against MCC's Charles Human.
The Plate was won by the rapidly (visibly!) improving Yuri Kugler from MURTC.
Thanks to MCC for hosting this event and to stalwart Lord's professionals Mark Ryan and Chris Swallow for their excellent marking and efficient administration.