The annual Palerang Cup tennis competition between Braidwood and Bungendore tennis clubs took place during terrific weather conditions on Sunday, November 6. The sun shone on the courts and the temperature sat on a perfect 20C as Braidwood sought to best Bungendore, who have held the cup for the past two years.
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The 12 players representing each town played in six teams of doubles, each of which played three sets.
Braidwood’s teams consisted of Michael Toirkens and Sam Daniher, with Michael acting as a calming influence on the young and enthusiastic Sam, while hitting forehand and backhand winners like a machine and captaining the team superbly; father and son, Ian and Ben Howard followed, with Ian was similarly settling down Ben who was able to focus for the key points; next was Rodney Royds and Craig Munn, with Craig returning to the field in fine form after several years absence; they were followed by Daniel Backhouse and John Potter, both new members of the tennis club and both playing brilliantly for their town; Joel Goode and Hayley Ramsey were another formidable combination showing great teamwork as they played; finally, Gordon McPhail and Reg O’Connell, both former Bungendore residents, exhibited an abundance of delicate touches around the court, and displayed their true allegiance towards Braidwood with their fine tennis game-play.
Matches were tight with plenty of thrilling tennis played over the course of the day. Bungendore players gave it their best and never said die.
Braidwood, however, emerged from the tournament victorious, on the day winning ten sets to five, with three drawn sets having given every game their all. With this victory the Palerang Cup returns to its true home in Braidwood!
Braidwood Tennis Club president Michael Toirkens thanked the Bungendore players for their efforts, the great way in which they played the game and for the friendships that are renewed at the cup each year.
The Palerang Cup itself will be passed around from player to players, to be placed in their home or workplace, and then will eventually find its way back home to sit in its rightful place in the trophy cabinet.
Braidwood Tennis Club will be holding a Christmas party on Sunday December 11 at 1.30pm. Members, guests and any interested in joining are more than welcome to attend.
Please direct any further enquiries regarding the club to Jenny Daniher on 4842 7166, Nick Fry on 4842 1700 or Michael Toirkens on 4842 2021.
