Over 70s British Open Championship
The Neptune British Over 70s Championships
This event for us puts into perspective our sporting lives and just shows the stamina still left in a generation that are well past their sporting prime. It was a strong field which made for a great tournament. With a bit more “young blood” qualifying this year the competition, with defending champion John Ward awaiting a challenge. In the previous year he was the stand out players, still no 1 seed this year, but with 3 fierce semi final opponents in with a shot.
The first day of singles went without upset yet still producing great matches with all players looking as though they should be playing at least a decade below this category. Sunday was down to the serious business with all 4 semi finalists very evenly matched. In the first John ward came through victorious against Willie Wilks who played exceptionally well in the first half of the match and then Robin Barlow defeated Mike Seymour so both the top 2 seeds went into the final. There was no rest for these finalists as they were back on court straight away for the doubles final. John being partnered by David Bevan-Thomas (aged 80) and Robin with Willie by his side. This again was a close contest sharing games most of the way but when it came down to it with John Ward so consistent at the back of the court and David volleying well they had enough to win 8/6.
We allowed them a short rest to gather their breath before Robin and John competed in the singles final. On paper John was the stronger player and when they got on court his class shone through and there was only really ever one winner and John took it 8/3.
We really enjoyed the weekend and we look forward to more people qualifying and competing next year. Thanks must go to John ward for his organisation and Neptune for their prizes and continued support for the game.