14 Apr South of Ireland Championships 2009 – Report
The South of Ireland Omni Court Championships was held once again over the Easter weekend at Rushbrooke Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club and what a successful event this was again this year!
The popular event in Rushbrooke was not only supported by Munster’s loyal tennis enthusiasts but also by the growing number of club members who again rallied around Captain Eamonn Crotty to help ensure the successful running of the tournament. Many volunteers from the Club gave of their time before and during the event keeping a tight reign on the mountain of administration involved in its successful operation to avoid any hitches or delays in the scheduling of the large number of games for the record number of competitors. Players from Dublin, Waterford, Limerick and Munster Clubs, and the club also had the pleasure of Lynsey McCullough travelling the length of the country to play.
A record number of entrants (289) and a number of matches (226) were scheduled from Thursday to Finals Day on the bank holiday Monday.
The speeches were opened by the Club Chairman Mr. Niall Chandler where he welcomed the large crowd at the prize giving ceremony after the final matches were completed. He complimented all involved in the running of the tournament on the outstanding work over the weekend, a weekend he stated had ran like clockwork.
The Club Captain opened his speech by addressing all present, he congratulated new Munster Branch President Mr. Cliff Carroll on his appointment and wished him the best of luck in his term of office. He stated it was an honour for him to stand before the club members who during the weekend had shown nothing but voluntary help, support and unity which led to the smooth running of the tournament. All sponsors involved were thanked for their generous sponsorship in these trying times and their continued support was greatly appreciated.
This year saw fantastic matches right throughout all grades and a high standard of tennis was evident in all grades. The crowds flocked to the splendid venue all through the weekend but especially on the final day held in glorious sunshine.
Jamie Blake was crowned South of Ireland Men’s Singles Champion beating Kevin Rea and Lynsey McCullough played superb tennis to capture the Ladies South of Ireland title from Niamh Coveney.
Work now moves onto the FDC sponsored Championships of County Cork which again is expected to break all records for entries and matches will take place in July. Congratulations to all competitors, winners, runners up and all who took part.
For more pictures from the South of Ireland Omni Court Championships click here
Article written by Eamonn Crotty, Rushbrooke LTCC