The Club’s first ever President’s Day was held last Sunday (30th June) and was a great success for the new President, Bill Nowell. The improved weather saw the event attract a record entry for a club singles competition of 37, with a good number of spectators also there to lend their support.
In the top half of the draw, Mark Rowlinson made comfortable progress to the semi-final with wins against Vera Groom (21-11), Jayne Eustace (21-12) and Judith Farrell (21-13). He faced tough opposition in the semi-final in the form of Mike Dunlop who had successfully negotiated three tough games, narrowly defeating Jim Finnimore (21-18), Steve Mann (21-19) and John Stennett (21-17). These close games must have taken their toll on Mike, however, as Mark won through to the final with an easier than expected 21-13 victory.
The bottom half of the draw saw Alex Rimmer reach his second final of the season after a series of closely fought contests. Having defeated Don Rimmer 21-10 in the 1st Round, Alex then had to go the distance against Brian Jones, Leo Tobin and Eagles player John Unsworth, winning all three games 21-20.
In the final, Alex, with an advantage on the handicapping of +4, established an early lead, winning four consecutive ends to lead 11-6. When Alex scored back-to-back 2s at the 16th and 17th ends to take the score to 17-9, it looked to be only a matter of time before he clinched victory. However, Mark was able to take the next four ends to narrow the gap to 15-17 and although Alex scored a couple of singles to go within two chalks of the title, Mark strung another four consecutive ends together to take the 2013 President’s Cup, winning 21-19.
A plate competition was held for those players who had lost their first game and this was won by Bill Nowell who beat Richard Rawcliffe 15-10 in the final.
The Committee would like to thank Irene Nowell, Pat Jones and Betty Plant for providing the refreshments and organising a raffle. An impressive total of £143 was raised on the day which will go towards club funds.
Congratulations to our President, Bill Nowell, on a successful and enjoyable day.