East of England Racketball Open - Results
For the photos from the day head to our Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/UKRacketballSeries/
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East of England Racketball Open - Report
This was by far the largest East of England Racketball Open that we have ever had. The event was fantastic both in terms of standard and atmosphere with probably the greatest number of fixtures going the distance that we’ve ever had at a Series event.
The A Grade very much reflected the overall feel of the event with all bar one match going to a decider and finishing in a 2-1. Racketball’s rising start Luke Bishop emerged as group winner but was pushed hard by both Callum Arnott and Amber Marshall who both took games off the England no.2. This really opened up the battle for 2nd place with Paul Wallace taking a game of Marshall and defeating Arnott three players were in with a shout of winning the group. In the end the deciding factor was Arnott’s victory over Marshall. This was one of the hardest fought A Grades events that we have had in years.
England no.1 Mervyn Davis started his campaign in the huge over 50’s draw solidly coming through the group without dropping a game. In the semi finals he was defeated Patrick Osborn to book his place in yet another final.
The A Grade very much reflected the overall feel of the event with all bar one match going to a decider and finishing in a 2-1. Racketball’s rising start Luke Bishop emerged as group winner but was pushed hard by both Callum Arnott and Amber Marshall who both took games off the England no.2. This really opened up the battle for 2nd place with Paul Wallace taking a game of Marshall and defeating Arnott three players were in with a shout of winning the group. In the end the deciding factor was Arnott’s victory over Marshall. This was one of the hardest fought A Grades events that we have had in years.
England no.1 Mervyn Davis started his campaign in the huge over 50’s draw solidly coming through the group without dropping a game. In the semi finals he was defeated Patrick Osborn to book his place in yet another final.
At Broxbourne we had 9 of the England top 15 in the Over 50’s. Marc Thornley was only just in that number with a ranking of 13 going into the event. A solid performance in the group saw him through without dropping a game. A very tough opponent in Philip Hall waited for him in the quarters but Thorney proved up to the challenge coming through 2-1. The tenacious Paul Dodds was up next but Thornley’s run continued taking him to the final. The final was a great game of Racketball pitting the countries best player against a local who does have these flashes of brilliance. This was Thornley’s day all the way through and he was not to be denied. Thornley is once again crowned East of England Champion as he was in 2018 (as seen being crowned by Akhtar Khokhar).
Comparing the 2018 over 50’s event at Broxbourne and the 2020 one shows just how far this venue has come. In 2018 we had two groups of 5, in 2020 it’s almost double the number spread across 5 groups. Hopefully 2021 will see a return to Broxbourne for a 4th year running. This is a club which is welcoming, homely and proving ever more popular with the faithful of the UK-Racketball Series.
Comparing the 2018 over 50’s event at Broxbourne and the 2020 one shows just how far this venue has come. In 2018 we had two groups of 5, in 2020 it’s almost double the number spread across 5 groups. Hopefully 2021 will see a return to Broxbourne for a 4th year running. This is a club which is welcoming, homely and proving ever more popular with the faithful of the UK-Racketball Series.
Over 70’s ran for the first time at Broxbourne. For a first event it was only two players so a straight final between Ian Grahame and Peter Fraser. Ian Graham claimed the first ever Over 70’s Title 2-0. This is the first Over 70’s event of the season and we will be running the competition across all of our venues, with Over 50’s and 60’s being two of our most popular grades this is definitely one to watch for the future.
Ryan Loska continued his run in the Over 40’s with a victory over Hoddesdon’s David Acquet in the final 2-0.
The B Grades once again drew one of the biggest fields for the day with 18 competitors taking part. It was the battle of the clubs in the B Grade. Three players travelled from Sheffield (Hallamshire and Abbeydale), two from Dover and then a splattering from other clubs including Lisbon. Three players started their day in the The Isle of White and caught the midnight ferry home!
It was a fantastically competitive B Grade with plenty of matches going the distance throughout. The final pitted two very tired players against each other Manuel Costa from Portugal and Paul Stitch from the Isle of White. It was Paul Stitch who was most stitched up by the draw with three matches back to back before the final. It was a great effort but in the end he fell at the final hurdle to the experienced veteran. Speaking to Manuel post match he said that he was really looking forward to the British Open running in Sheffield in October. He has been playing regularly in the UK-Racketball Series for years but not being a British citizen he is excluded from the Nationals. This will be his first chance to try his hand at a major. Watch out the Over 55’s!
Ryan Loska continued his run in the Over 40’s with a victory over Hoddesdon’s David Acquet in the final 2-0.
The B Grades once again drew one of the biggest fields for the day with 18 competitors taking part. It was the battle of the clubs in the B Grade. Three players travelled from Sheffield (Hallamshire and Abbeydale), two from Dover and then a splattering from other clubs including Lisbon. Three players started their day in the The Isle of White and caught the midnight ferry home!
It was a fantastically competitive B Grade with plenty of matches going the distance throughout. The final pitted two very tired players against each other Manuel Costa from Portugal and Paul Stitch from the Isle of White. It was Paul Stitch who was most stitched up by the draw with three matches back to back before the final. It was a great effort but in the end he fell at the final hurdle to the experienced veteran. Speaking to Manuel post match he said that he was really looking forward to the British Open running in Sheffield in October. He has been playing regularly in the UK-Racketball Series for years but not being a British citizen he is excluded from the Nationals. This will be his first chance to try his hand at a major. Watch out the Over 55’s!
David Worrall returned to fitness and winning ways in the Over 60’s with victories over two of his old rivals in the final stage. I’ve lost count of the Ian Graham, Gordon Lamb and Worrall battles in the finals.
A full draw in the doubles made for a great event but top seeds Amber Marshall and Luke Bishop were the stand out pairing and didn’t drop a game all event. Victory in the doubles and singles at Broxbourne means that Bishop has now claimed 10 UK-Racketball Series Titles placing him joint 5th in the list of all time title holders. To see the whole list follow this link - http://www.uk-racketball.com/table-toppers.html
The next event for the UK-Racketball Series is at Hallamshire on the 18th of April. This is likely to sellout so make sure that you get your entry in early if you’re looking to play http://www.uk-racketball.com/e2---north-east-of-england-racketball-open---18th-april.html
A full draw in the doubles made for a great event but top seeds Amber Marshall and Luke Bishop were the stand out pairing and didn’t drop a game all event. Victory in the doubles and singles at Broxbourne means that Bishop has now claimed 10 UK-Racketball Series Titles placing him joint 5th in the list of all time title holders. To see the whole list follow this link - http://www.uk-racketball.com/table-toppers.html
The next event for the UK-Racketball Series is at Hallamshire on the 18th of April. This is likely to sellout so make sure that you get your entry in early if you’re looking to play http://www.uk-racketball.com/e2---north-east-of-england-racketball-open---18th-april.html
East of England Racketball Open - Schedule
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East of England Racketball Open - Draws
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East of England Racketball Open - Entry List
It's a fantastic entry for the first event of 2020 with an over subscribed Broxbourne taking place next Saturday. Open the file below to see the full entry list!
The draws will be released tomorrow with the schedule coming out on Monday. The event is likely to start at 9.00 but your own personal start time will very much depend on where you are in the draw.
The draws will be released tomorrow with the schedule coming out on Monday. The event is likely to start at 9.00 but your own personal start time will very much depend on where you are in the draw.
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East of England Racketball Open Introduction
The return of the UK-Racketball Series in 2020 begins once again at Broxbourne for the East of England Racketball Open!
An event at Broxbourne was new to the Series in 2018 and has proved very popular ever since with the tournament in 2019 selling out early. David Worrall is the only player to have claimed both the title in 2018 and in 2019 defeating series veterans Ian Graham and Gordon Lamb respectively. Last year Broxbourne saw one of the most impressive ends to a doubles event that we have ever had with Adam Grilli and Elliot Selby saving two match balls to come back and win against Daniel Weights and Craig Perry. Local player Amber Marshall earned her first ever Series Title with a victory over Jasmin Kalar. This victory set up a great year of Racketball for Marshall who made it to the National Final in Edgbaston in July.
It is likely that Broxbourne will be popular again this year falling straight after the winter break. If you are planning to play then you are advised not to leave it to the last minute. This is a lovely tournament and not one to miss out on!
Broxbourne Sports Club has a wide range of top class facilities centred in the county of Hertfordshire. Well maintained and warm courts with a cozy bar that overlooks two of the courts. The glass back show court will once again be used for the event finals. Dan Fernandez, Patrick Osborn, Adam Grilli, Mark Banfield, Amber Marshall and Marc Thornley are all local to Broxbourne and long standing players in the Series. Feel free to ask them about the events or call Mark Fuller at UK-Racketball on 07846067505 for more information.
An event at Broxbourne was new to the Series in 2018 and has proved very popular ever since with the tournament in 2019 selling out early. David Worrall is the only player to have claimed both the title in 2018 and in 2019 defeating series veterans Ian Graham and Gordon Lamb respectively. Last year Broxbourne saw one of the most impressive ends to a doubles event that we have ever had with Adam Grilli and Elliot Selby saving two match balls to come back and win against Daniel Weights and Craig Perry. Local player Amber Marshall earned her first ever Series Title with a victory over Jasmin Kalar. This victory set up a great year of Racketball for Marshall who made it to the National Final in Edgbaston in July.
It is likely that Broxbourne will be popular again this year falling straight after the winter break. If you are planning to play then you are advised not to leave it to the last minute. This is a lovely tournament and not one to miss out on!
Broxbourne Sports Club has a wide range of top class facilities centred in the county of Hertfordshire. Well maintained and warm courts with a cozy bar that overlooks two of the courts. The glass back show court will once again be used for the event finals. Dan Fernandez, Patrick Osborn, Adam Grilli, Mark Banfield, Amber Marshall and Marc Thornley are all local to Broxbourne and long standing players in the Series. Feel free to ask them about the events or call Mark Fuller at UK-Racketball on 07846067505 for more information.
Main Tournament Details
What: Broxbourne Open
When: Saturday 29th February
Where: Broxbourne Sports Club
Postcode: EN10 7BA
Closing Date: Friday 21st February
Cost: £14.00 (£8.50 for an optional high quality, quick dry, sublimated print tournament t-shirt)
More Information: Email Mark Fuller mark@starsportsdevelopment.com or call Mark on 07846 067505
When: Saturday 29th February
Where: Broxbourne Sports Club
Postcode: EN10 7BA
Closing Date: Friday 21st February
Cost: £14.00 (£8.50 for an optional high quality, quick dry, sublimated print tournament t-shirt)
More Information: Email Mark Fuller mark@starsportsdevelopment.com or call Mark on 07846 067505
East of England Broxbourne - Hall of Fame
Grades
It is important to remember that UK-Racketball Series events are designed to be inclusive. Although the A grade does attract the best racketball players in the country the events really are for players of all ages and abilities. We have never had a competitor who felt they were not good enough for an event when they took part.
A Grade – County, national or good club player
B Grade – Regular club player
Women’s – All ages and abilities, these events have a great range of players which makes for a fun and competitive day.
Over 40’s – For players over the age of 40
Over 50’s - For players over the age of 50
Over 60’s – For players over the age of 60
Over 70's - For players over the age of 70
Doubles – All players in one grade. Entries are limited to 8 teams.
If you are unsure which category to enter please feel free to contact Mark Fuller directly on 07846067505 or email us at info@uk-racketball.com and we will be happy to advise you.
A Grade – County, national or good club player
B Grade – Regular club player
Women’s – All ages and abilities, these events have a great range of players which makes for a fun and competitive day.
Over 40’s – For players over the age of 40
Over 50’s - For players over the age of 50
Over 60’s – For players over the age of 60
Over 70's - For players over the age of 70
Doubles – All players in one grade. Entries are limited to 8 teams.
If you are unsure which category to enter please feel free to contact Mark Fuller directly on 07846067505 or email us at info@uk-racketball.com and we will be happy to advise you.
Club Facilities
Broxbourne Sports Club has 5 high standard squash courts including a glass-backed show court with seating for 70 spectators.
Other facilities at Broxborne Sports Club include 11 tennis courts, a 3G sand based tiger turf pitch, two highly maintained cricket squares and a comfy bar- perfect for a post-match pint .
Other facilities at Broxborne Sports Club include 11 tennis courts, a 3G sand based tiger turf pitch, two highly maintained cricket squares and a comfy bar- perfect for a post-match pint .
Club Location
Broxbourne Sports Club
Mill Lane Close,
Broxbourne,
Hertfordshire.
EN10 7BA
For more details follow this link to the club website.
Mill Lane Close,
Broxbourne,
Hertfordshire.
EN10 7BA
For more details follow this link to the club website.
What happened in 2019 - Broxbourne Racketball Open Report
It was a fantastic start to the 2019 HEAD UK-Racketball Series on Saturday. An over subscribed event with a large number of the England Top 10 it was always set to be a high standard and a late finish and the day lived up to the expectations.
Ten players entered the Over 40’s and with half the number were ranked inside the England Top 10 there were some brutal matches throughout the day. Richard Davies won group A but was pushed hard by the Portuguese maestro Manuel Costa. Group B saw James Powley (ER 5) and Ryan Loska (ER 6) dispatch all opposition to set up a fantastically competitive group decider. In the end Loska managed to hang in the rallies just a bit longer than Powley to claim his spot in the final. Richard Davies maintained his run of 40’s titles defeating Loska 2-1 in the final but he was pushed all the way in a match that lasted over a hour.
David Worrall justified his top seeding position in the Over 60’s as he claimed 1st place in Group A. No two seed Graham Greensall fell at the final hurdle in Group B coming unstuck against Gordon Lamb who made it to his first final. In the end the experienced Worrall had to much for Lamb as he added another title to his collection.
Ten players entered the Over 40’s and with half the number were ranked inside the England Top 10 there were some brutal matches throughout the day. Richard Davies won group A but was pushed hard by the Portuguese maestro Manuel Costa. Group B saw James Powley (ER 5) and Ryan Loska (ER 6) dispatch all opposition to set up a fantastically competitive group decider. In the end Loska managed to hang in the rallies just a bit longer than Powley to claim his spot in the final. Richard Davies maintained his run of 40’s titles defeating Loska 2-1 in the final but he was pushed all the way in a match that lasted over a hour.
David Worrall justified his top seeding position in the Over 60’s as he claimed 1st place in Group A. No two seed Graham Greensall fell at the final hurdle in Group B coming unstuck against Gordon Lamb who made it to his first final. In the end the experienced Worrall had to much for Lamb as he added another title to his collection.
Local girl Amber Marshall completed a brutal day by claiming the women’s crown 2-0 against Jasmin Kalar in the final. It was Marshalls third event of the day as she was also competing in the doubles where she came runner up in Group B and the Open where she reached the quarters.
Doubles is growing in popularity both on the HEAD UK-Racketball tour and across the UK. The standard of competitive doubles has risen significantly since we first introduced it at Bexley last year. Saturday’s doubles was the most impressive to date. The doubles final was one of the best matches of the day with Adam Grilli and Elliot Selby saving two match balls to come back and win against Daniel Weights and Craig Perry.
Keith Mabey made his first ever final in the B Grade but did not have enough to defeat the experienced Manuel Costa. The B Grade final was Costa’s 8th match of the day an unbelievable effort.
Doubles is growing in popularity both on the HEAD UK-Racketball tour and across the UK. The standard of competitive doubles has risen significantly since we first introduced it at Bexley last year. Saturday’s doubles was the most impressive to date. The doubles final was one of the best matches of the day with Adam Grilli and Elliot Selby saving two match balls to come back and win against Daniel Weights and Craig Perry.
Keith Mabey made his first ever final in the B Grade but did not have enough to defeat the experienced Manuel Costa. The B Grade final was Costa’s 8th match of the day an unbelievable effort.
Predictably with so many top players present the A Grade was a long event. England No.4 Billy Jones was defeated early in the group stages by Joseph Blackmur who combined youthful flair with some intelligent match play. Group B came right down to the wire with Craig Chappel grinding Elliot Selby off in over an hour of brutal Racketball. The semi finals were no less competitive than the group stages with Blackmur defeating Selby and Chapel defeating Weights. It was 20:00 by the time the final started and at 1-1 it was as much a test of endurance and tenacity as it was of skill. In the end Blackmur came through as victor, Chapel could not have tried any harder leaving absolutely every ounce of his energy on court.
A couple of late withdrawals reduced the Over 50’s draw to a mere 20 players. Top seed Paul Dodds displayed his usual patience and placement to progress through the groups before narrowly defeating Northamptonshire’s Simon Philips in the semi final. In the bottom half two seed Dan Fernandez once again fought his way through the group before coming unstuck in the knockout stage this time by Patrick Osborn. The Over 50’s final was always going to be a tight affair with both players experienced an intelligent Racketball competitors. In the end it seemed that at the moment a lot of what Paul Dodds does well Patrick Osborn does just a little bit better. The first Over 50’s title of the season goes Osborn’s way but I think we are in for a fascinating year in the Over 50’s and I’m sure that Dodds will come back fighting for event two.
It was a late finish in Broxbourne as much down to the quality as the quantity of the entries. The Series now heads to Hallamshire for the North East of England Racketball Open on the 13th of April. Follow this link for more information - http://www.uk-racketball.com/e2---north-east-of-england-racketball-open---13th-april.html
A couple of late withdrawals reduced the Over 50’s draw to a mere 20 players. Top seed Paul Dodds displayed his usual patience and placement to progress through the groups before narrowly defeating Northamptonshire’s Simon Philips in the semi final. In the bottom half two seed Dan Fernandez once again fought his way through the group before coming unstuck in the knockout stage this time by Patrick Osborn. The Over 50’s final was always going to be a tight affair with both players experienced an intelligent Racketball competitors. In the end it seemed that at the moment a lot of what Paul Dodds does well Patrick Osborn does just a little bit better. The first Over 50’s title of the season goes Osborn’s way but I think we are in for a fascinating year in the Over 50’s and I’m sure that Dodds will come back fighting for event two.
It was a late finish in Broxbourne as much down to the quality as the quantity of the entries. The Series now heads to Hallamshire for the North East of England Racketball Open on the 13th of April. Follow this link for more information - http://www.uk-racketball.com/e2---north-east-of-england-racketball-open---13th-april.html
East of England Racketball Open - Results
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