We had 16 people for a traditional Christmas dinner, beautifully presented by Ed Dixon Food Design. Annie Holden decorated the room to ensure we were all in the mood when Santa and his 2 helpers arrived!
Everyone received a present and a turn at sitting on Santa’s lap, or a bit of Slap and Tickle.
After main courses, the lady players got to draw their gentleman partner for the next days play. Everyone seemed remarkably unphased by their selection of partners, probably due to the fantastic group of men that were available for the draw this year.
By 10pm most of the serious athlete’s had departed for their good night’s sleep, and thiose that were left indulged in a stiff night cap, or two.
Late on Sunday morning play commenced, with each pair playing three sets before the top ranked pair in each group played off for the pair of scotch glasses.
It was great to see our new Ladies World Champion play in the event, partnered by Vince Scopilitti, with the longest handicap difference in the event. Well done to all players for participating in a sporting manner.
In division 1 it was the youngsters that raced ahead in to the finals, Karen making her second RMTC mixed doubles final in 3 months. In division 2 Wendy Whitehead and Craig Jamieson were unlucky not to go through, after a late start in the day they were looking good, but just missed out. It was Rob Falconer and Fiona Hewson that sneaked through to the final. The final was close fought, and although the higher handicappers put in a good effort, it was Karen Hird’s steady temprement, combined with Paul having to settle in to giving an enormous handicap that prevailed. Well done to Rob Falconer who gets the tournament directors award for most improved player of the day.
Congratulations to Karen Hird & Paul Rosedale who defeated Fiona Hewson & Rob Falconer 8-6 in the final.
Thanks to Julie Baker for providing a lovely festive lunch.