The ‘mini Beast from the East’ arrived on the day of the tournament with high winds, freezing temperatures and snow so after a lot of last minute arrangements (and not inconsiderable cost) the ladies, men’s and boys 14 and under events were moved to David Lloyd’s indoor courts in Leeds.
In the 14 and under event the final was won by Alexander Fook-Knowles from Liverpool 4-3(3) 3-4(4) (10-9) against Joseph Barndon of South Lakes on his 7th matchpoint at sudden death. A normal Fast4 match lasts about 40 minutes but this one must be close to a record at one and a half hours with 60 plus shot rallies. Well done to both players it was a great match.
The consolation event was won by Maxim Amirahmadi 4-2 2-4 (10-5) against Archie Stoner
In the women’s event it was hard to get the girls out of the club room for their first games as they were happily chatting to new and old friends. This is great as I like to encourage a friendly atmosphere at my events. Once started the tournament seemed to be enjoyed by everyone and the main event was won by Olivia Smith from Hale squeezing past home player Priyanka Misra 10-8 in the champions tiebreak. The consolation event was won by 4th seed Katie Myers 4-0 4-3(2) against Marione Horsley.
The men’s event was won by Adam Singleton from Manchester against David Lloyd’s Saviniene Biock 4-3(2) 4-0. The consolation event was won by Mahesh Jagadaeesan 4-1 4-0 against Edward Beaton.
