DEREK A DOUBLE CHAMPION!
Over 30 players took part in a special Over 50s North Tyneside Social Badminton Tournament in the sports hall at John Spence Community High School in North Shields, organised by North Tyneside Badminton Partnership. The ages of the players ranged from 50 to 75!! Volunteers from the Partnership (which organises badminton activities across North Tyneside for players of all ages and abilities), and from Bewicke Badminton Club, which plays at John Spence on Tuesday and Friday evenings, ensured that everything ran smoothly. The matches were played in a really friendly yet competitive spirit. One of the regular tournament competitors commented “As usual, I had a great time, with some really competitive games. It’s always so well organised and there was even a tub of chocolates that someone brought along. That’s my kind of tournament!!”
Sue Quick and Heather Ferris from Morpeth, playing for the first time in a North Tyneside Social Tournament, came out on top in the Ladies Doubles, winning all of their 5 matches in a group of 6 pairs. They defeated the runners-up, regular competitors Jo Donaldson and Lillian Allison, 21-13, and were worthy winners.
The other 2 Doubles events produced a double champion in Derek Gilhespie. Derek and his partner Simon Entwistle, both regular competitors, defeated Richard Mullen and Ray Wynarczyk 21-11 in the final of the Men’s Doubles, after both pairs won their semi-finals comfortably.
Ladies and Men’s Doubles winners and runners-up
The Mixed Doubles produced many close games. Derek Gilhespie collected his second winners’ trophy, with regular Mixed Doubles partner Jo Donaldson. They overcame Mike Turton and Honore Blenkinsopp 21-11 in the final.
Mixed Doubles winners and runners-up with Nicola Bibby from Bewicke BC
The emphasis in these social tournaments is always on enjoyment, and on providing an opportunity for social players to meet and play against different people.
Entry forms for the next North Tyneside Social Tournament, on Sunday 1st December in John Spence sports hall, are now available. The tournament is open to any social/casual players aged 14 and over. League or County players are not allowed to enter. Forms can be obtained from the tournament secretary by phoning 0191 2637686. Forms are also available in leisure centres in North Tyneside. The closing date for entries is Monday 25th November.