Kenilworth Tennis Squash and Croquet Club

Latest club news and press releases

A golden milestone for Kenilworth Sport (21st April 2013)

A weekend of celebrations is planned to mark a golden milestone for Kenilworth Tennis, Squash and Croquet Club. The 50th anniversary of the opening of the clubhouse on the Crackley Lane site is on Sunday 5 May.

Members of all ages will join an afternoon of fun and games between 1PM and 6PM on the day itself. The Club is eager for former and retired members to come along and meet old friends for tea or a drink at the bar.

Attractions will include a 1960s-style 'wooden racket' knockabout on the tennis courts, cream teas on the croquet lawns, a bouncy castle, lucky dip and other family stalls, a magic show, refreshments in the clubhouse and a late-afternoon barbecue.

There will also be a display about the history of the Club, which started life on tennis courts in Queens Road in 1901. It moved to Crackley Lane in 1962 and the Clubhouse opened on 5 May 1963. Since then, there have been many developments and the Club now has nine tennis courts, a mini-tennis area and croquet lawns. A sixth squash court is due to open in June this year and a further sport, racketball, is gaining in popularity. Total membership stands at nearly 800.

Mrs Anne Holmes, of the anniversary organising committee, said: "Many people in the Town have associations with the Club, which has retained a very welcoming environment for players of all ages and standards.We would be delighted to see any former members on the afternoon of Sunday 5 May and we are planning a cake-cutting ceremony at about 4pm, by which time the party should be in full swing."

Junior players will also be encouraged to bring a friend to tennis Junior Night on the Friday and squash Junior Morning on the Saturday. All junior members attending weekend coaching sessions will receive a celebratory cupcake.

Mrs Holmes added; "There is a lovely atmosphere at the Club and this will be a great chance for all our sporting sections to get together on what we hope will be a fine Bank Holiday weekend."

Photo shows (from left) club members Janet McVeigh, Steve Proctor and Anne Holmes, with their wooden rackets, looking forward to the celebrations.

Successful Davis Cup tournament in Kenilworth (21st April 2013)

Following the recent international Davis Cup match in Coventry, another successful Davis Cup tournament has just been played at the Kenilworth Tennis, Squash and Croquet Club.

Mrs Janet Davis sponsors a "Davis Cup" Mixed Doubles tournament in memory of her late husband and popular Club member, Mr David Davis. She provides prizes and a cup for the winners and was backed up by her daughter-in-law, Mrs Bev Davis.

Eight teams of four played in mixed pairings against other "countries". The organiser, Mrs Anne Holmes, chose the names using countries from which top players in contemporary world tennis come.

The winning team was SERBIA, followed by RUSSIA and GREAT BRITAIN.

The Serbian team was Jacquie Roe; Bob Potts; Chloe Roe (no relation); Nicola Jennings.

32 players took part, with one or two ladies completing teams in place of men. Play was friendly throughout and many players remarked on the “relaxed atmosphere”

Mrs Davis thanked all those who took part and reiterated that the Club means a great deal to her and her family.

The photograph shows the successful Serbia team, left to right, Bev Davis, Mrs Davis’ daughter-in-law; Anne Holmes; Janet Davis; Jacquie Roe; Bob Potts; Chloe Roe (no relation); Nicola Jennings.

Kenilworth Ladies veterans unbeaten in Winter season (21st April 2013)

As the Summer season is about to start, Kenilworth Ladies tennis teams look back on a successful Winter season with all matches completed in time in spite of the rain, wind , snow and ice!

The veterans First team, captained for the tenth consecutive year by Kay Gebbels, were unbeaten in the First division of the Warwickshire Ladies Veterans League, but came second overall to Solihull Arden, despite beating them 5-3 in the head to head. Arden had posted 3 resounding 8-0 victories to help them on their way to the trophy.

In the Second Division, new captain Philippa Middup steered her Second team to an excellent fourth position out of twelve teams, thus showing Kenilworth’s great depth of strength at veterans level.

With three teams also playing in the Stratford and District Winter League, finding enough weekend days to play those matches cancelled because of bad weather was a challenge in itself. With the A team promoted last year to Division One, Captain Caroline Rhodes was delighted with a safe fourth position finish.

Helen Cochrane, leading the B team, had to wait till the very last match of the season for confirmation of promotion to the Third Division. The B team finished behind Claverdon A, equal on 26 points with Warwick Boat Club C team. Both teams had won 58 sets but Kenilworth took second place by virtue of having lost 32 sets compared to Boat Club’s 34. It just does not get any closer!

The C team, captained by Anne Holmes C team, also promoted last season, did well to consolidate their position in Division Seven. They too had a tight finish on equal points with Aston Cantlow but took the valuable secure fourth position by virtue of having won 40 sets compared to Aston Cantlow’s 31.

Caroline Rhodes summed up; "All the Kenilworth teams showed tremendous team spirit, a huge factor in their success. This is indeed a harmonious Club".

Sarah-Jane selected to play for England Seniors (15th April 2013)

Following her impressive recent form and rise to number 20 in the World rankings, Sarah-Jane Perry from Kenilworth Squash Club in Crackley Lane has been chosen to represent England in the European Team Squash Championships, to be held in Amsterdam next month.

Perry celebrated her first senior call-up by also retaining her British Under 23 Squash title at Hunts County Squash Club, Huntingdon.

Top seeded Perry beat Hannah Williams 11-3, 11-1, 11-6, Georgina Kennedy 11-1, 11-4, 11-8 and Nada El Kalaawy 12-10, 11-3, 11-4 to set up a repeat of last year’s final against fellow former European Junior champion Carrie Ramsey.

Perry raced to a 10-5 lead in the first game, then Ramsey rallied to level, but Perry closed out the first with a stunning high backhand cross-court flick that found the nick. Ramsey lost her control in the next games, hitting a succession of shots high out of court, giving Perry an easy game. Ramsey rallied again to take the third, but Perry then closed out the match 12-10, 11-3, 9-11, 11-6 to take the title.

Her form just keeps getting even better and better.

Sarah-Jane is pictured here with David Campion, Assistant National Squash Coach.

Click here for article on the Squash England website.

Sarah-Jane reaches world top twenty ranking (3rd April 2013)

Kenilworth squash star Sarah-Jane Perry has just risen six places to number 20 in the latest World Squash rankings, and is ranked fourth in England.

This is in recognition of her recent fantastic run that includes six Women’s Squash Association tour titles since June 2012, more than any other woman during this period.

She will be defending her British Under 23 title in mid-April at Huntingdon, followed by the National Club Championships for Kenilworth and the Inter-County Championships for Warwickshire. She will then return to WSA tournaments with the Texas Open in the USA and the British Open at Hull.

Sarah-Jane commented "I have had a great twelve months, rising 45 places in the World rankings. I would like to thank my coach at Kenilworth Squash Club, Steve Townsend, and everyone else who has supported me. Hopefully, I can maintain this momentum and continue to improve in my World ranking."

Sarah-Jane's stunning double success (29th March 2013)

Kenilworth squash star Sarah-Jane Perry has just won again in North America.

Sarah-Jane completed a stunning double in Toronto, Canada, winning the Granite Club Open Squash Tournament to match her victory in the Mayfair Open last week.

Seeded three, Perry beat Sabrina Sobhy from USA 11-8, 11-8, 11-7; Amanda Landers-Murphy from New Zealand 11-9, 11-8, 11-7; second seed Sarah Kippax from England 11-6, 11-7, 11-7 and finally Victoria Lust from England 11-8, 11-7, 11-5, taking the title without dropping a game.

In the last 9 months, Perry has won 31 of her last 35 matches on the Women’s Squash Association tour, claiming six titles in the process. Her World ranking of 26 will improve again when the new list is released on 1 April.

More squash success for Sarah-Jane (26th March 2013)

Sarah-Jane Perry has just collected her sixth Women’s Squash Association tour title by winning the Mayfair Open in Toronto, Canada.

Seeded number three, Perry eased past Megan Craig from New Zealand and Lauren Selby from England, both 3-0, to set up a semi-final against second seeded Sarah Kippax from England. The more experienced Kippax took the first game, but then Perry raised her play to take the match 3-1.

Her opponent in the final, Heba El Torky from Egypt, was full of confidence, having defeated the top seed Samantha Teran from Mexico in the other semi-final. Perry started strongly, leading 11-5, 4-1, but then El Torky fought her way back into the match, taking the second. Perry maintained a lead throughout the next 2 games, scoring a 3-1 victory to take the title. This win will help Perry to improve her current World ranking of 26.

The top four seeds are all staying in Toronto to play in the Granite Club Open.

Harmonious Annual General Meeting (23rd March 2013)

A "harmonious" Annual General Meeting has just been held at Kenilworth Tennis, Squash and Croquet Club.

The new Squash court is under construction and will further boost the Club as a premier venue in the Midlands. The general parking area will then be expanded, with fresh markings.

Two tennis courts will be refurbished and a further new Croquet pavilion is planned.

There have been good results in competitions in Tennis, Squash, Racquetball and Croquet, with many young players doing well. Tennis Head Coach James Roe, Squash Coach Steve Townsend and their colleagues were praised for their many successes, especially with new members.

Thanks to careful budgeting, Club finances are in excellent order and a modest increase in membership fees was unanimously agreed. As a further economy, it is hoped to switch, where possible, to using email to communicate with members.

Anne Holmes was praised for her tireless work in achieving the important "Clubmark" status for both Tennis and Squash. The Dan Riley Trophy, for outstanding services to the Club, was awarded to Ray Clipson, who has done so much for Croquet over many years. Another Croquet stalwart, John Handy, and former General Secretary, Mike Storey, were made Honorary Life Members of the Club.

Club Chairman Adrian Morris stressed the Club’s "vibrant future". He added; "this has been a harmonious AGM of a friendly, welcoming group of people".

Warwickshire Ladies in National Squash Championships (26th February 2013)

The Warwickshire trio of Sarah-Jane Perry, Emma Beddoes and Leonie Holt have just been in action in Manchester at the British National Squash Championships.

Holt reached the main Ladies draw with wins in the qualifying tournament over Kirsty West (8-11, 11-6, 11-2, 11-4) and Victoria Temple-Murray (8-11, 11-5, 11-7, 4-11, 11-8), but then lost 4-11, 4-11, 6-11 to top seed and World number 3 Laura Massaro.

Beddoes and Perry were seeded 5/8, and so were expected to reach the quarter-finals, which they did, Beddoes beating Lauren Selby (11-6, 11-1, 11-5) with Perry recovering from a slow start to beat Carrie Ramsey (5/11, 11-4, 11-5, 11-5).

Beddoes surprised the audience by taking the first game against Massaro, and also came close in the fourth game, 7-15, 4-11, 2-11, 9-11 in 66 minutes.

Perry produced a fine performance despite losing 9-11, 6-11, 6-11 to second seed and World number 5 Alison Waters. Waters went on to beat Massaro in the final to lift her third National title.

Kenilworth’s Chris Fuller beat Luke Parker (8-11, 11-3, 11-8, 11-9) and Nick Murrills (11-5, 11-6, 11-7) before losing to Douglas Kempsell (8-11, 11-4, 6-11, 6-11) in the qualifying final of the Men’s event.

Beddoes continued her good form the following week with a stunning victory over Massaro (11-5, 5-11, 13-11, 7-11, 11-6) while playing for Nottingham in the Premier Squash League against champions Duffield. Perry, representing Birmingham University, ran the more experienced Sarah Kippax close at Pontefract, losing 13-15, 11-4, 9-11, 7-11.

Sarah-Jane wins in Delaware (9th February 2013)

Warwickshire squash stars Sarah-Jane Perry and Emma Beddoes have been in action in North America.

Kenilworth’s 4th seeded Perry had a straightforward 11-3, 11-4, 11-9 victory over the home club’s Alix Younger in the Meadowood Open at Winnipeg, Canada. She followed with an impressive defeat of Tesni Evans from Wales 11-7, 12-14, 11-5, 11-3 to set up a semi-final against top seed Dipika Pallikal from India. Pallikal raced to an early 7-1 lead before Perry got into the match, and fought off Perry’s recovery to take the 1st game. Perry responded well to win the next. It was nip and tuck in the3rd, Pallikal eventually edging it and then winning the next to reach the final with an 11-8, 6-11, 16-14, 11-2 victory.

Twice defending champion Beddoes was seeded 6, and started well in beating Coline Arnaud of France 11-6, 11-6, 11-7, but then lost the quarter-final 6-11, 8-11, 5-11 to the talented 2nd seed Joey Chan of Hong Kong.

Pallikal beat Chan in the final to take the title.

Delayed flights meant that top seed Perry had little time to prepare for her first round match against Canada’s Hollie Haughton in the Delaware Open held at Wilmington, USA, Perry winning 12-10, 11-7, 2-11, 11-6 despite not playing her best squash. She the reached the semi-final with an 11-5, 11-9, 12-10 victory over Olga Ertlova from the Czech Republic.

Perry lost the first game of the semi-final 10-12 against Heba Al Torky from Egypt despite having led 7-1, but then astounded the audience by replying with an 11-0 bagel in the second game with a superb combination of volleys, drops and nicks. Perry maintained the momentum, taking the match 10-12, 11-0, 11-4, 11-7.

4th seed Beddoes had good wins against Deon Saffrey of Wales (11-5, 11-8, 9-11, 11-5) and Japan’s Misaki Kobayashi (12-10, 11-4, 11-5).

Beddoes just failed to make it an all Warwickshire final, losing the other semi-final 7-11, 10-12, 11-9, 11-5, 11-13 against 2nd seed Sam Cornett from Canada.

Perry controlled every game in the final, playing her best squash of the week, taking her 5th WSA title with an 11-6, 11-8, 12-10 victory over Cornett.

<>Photo shows Sarah-Jane (left) and Sam Cornett.

Marathon win against local rival (16th January 2013)

Sarah-Jane Perry has just met Emma Beddoes from Leamington in the Premier Squash League match between Birmingham University and Nottingham, their third meeting in recent weeks. With each lady winning one of the previous encounters, a close match was predicted, and the audience was duly entertained by an excellent match of quality squash.

Perry started strongly, comfortably taking the first game 11-4. Although she seemed to dominate most rallies, Perry only just shaded the second next. Beddoes looked exhausted, but somehow managed to drive herself on to recover from seemingly losing positions in many rallies to level at 2 games all. Perry raced to a 7-2 lead in the final game, but again Beddoes came back to lead before Perry’s excellent physical condition finally told as she closed out a 11/4, 11/9, 10/12, 9/11, 11/8 victory in 68 minutes.

Warwickshire Ladies perform well in World Squash Championships (19th December 2012)

The Warwickshire trio of Sarah-Jane Perry (Kenilworth) and Emma Beddoes & Leonie Holt (Leamington Spa) performed well in World Squash Championships just held in The Cayman Islands.

Holt narrowly lost her first qualifying round match, but only by 9-11, 9-11, 11-7, 11-9, 4-11 in 57 minutes to Scotland’s Lisa Aitken.

Perry started with a comfortable 11-3, 11-7, 11-3 win over Ashley DeGroot from Guyana, but then had to overcome determined resistance from the talented Egyptian Heba El Torky 11-4, 8-11, 11-4, 11-9, including a comeback from 1-5 down in the fourth game, to qualify for the main draw of 32. She said; "Last year I was match ball up in the qualifying finals against El Sherbini, so it feels pretty good to get past another tough Egyptian this time".

Beddoes had a bye followed by an 11-4, 11-4, 11-6 victory of Nayelly Fernandez from Mexico.

In the main draw, Perry played sixth seed Jenny Duncalf (England) and while Beddoes drew fourteenth seed Camille Serme (France). Duncalf shaded the first game, but Perry stunned the crowd by levelling with an amazing 11-1 second game.

Despite playing near the top of her game, Perry could not maintain the momentum against her more experienced opponent, and Duncalf won 11-9, 1-11, 11-5, 11-8. A similar pattern followed for Beddoes, as Serme won 11-8, 10-12, 11-7, 11-6.

Great achievement by squash coach (18th December 2012)

At the recent England Squash and Racketball Awards Dinner, Kenilworth Head Coach Steve Townsend won the prestigious title of Club Coach of the Year. Earlier, he had delivered the keynote speech to the Coaching Conference showcasing Kenilworth Squash Club as a case study of success, including encouraging the many keen young players at the Club.

Steve said; "I am honoured and delighted to have won this Award. The plaudits must of course go to the invaluable team around me, including the coaches, players, volunteers, parents and Committee members. I certainly would not have won this Award without their help and support. It is really nice to be recognised and I look forward to continuing with the rest of the team to develop squash at Kenilworth, using with our new improved facilities."

This further success comes immediately after the double ClubMark Award and emphasises the great work in encouraging newcomers of all ages at the Club>In addition, Steve has used money left over from a recent Air Squash grant to print 1,000 flyers advertising the Minisquash programme and adult "learn to play" courses which will be given to parents of local school children.

Remarkable honour for Club (11th December 2012)

Kenilworth Tennis, Squash and Croquet Club has just achieved a remarkable honour. Both the Tennis and Squash Sections have been re-accredited with the Clubmark title by Sport England.

This award was introduced in 2002 by Sport England and recognises the commitment made by sports clubs to develop high quality, welcoming environments for young participants. KTSC are entitled to be very proud of this double success.

Mrs Anne Holmes, the Clubmark Officer at the Club said, "It has been, quite rightly, a lot of work to demonstrate our high standards in many areas, and we feel a real sense of pride."

Warwickshire ladies continue squash rivalry (11th December 2012)

Warwickshire’s Sarah-Jane Perry (Kenilworth) and Emma Beddoes (Leamington Spa) competed for the second successive weekend, this time in the final of the Reliable Networks BSPA UK Grand Prix held in Boston, Lincolnshire.

Both had 23 minute victories in their semi-finals, Beddoes beating Kirsty West 11-1, 11-1, 11-8 and Perry scoring a 11-6, 11-2, 11-3 victory over Sam Ward.

The first 4 games were all close – Perry looked to be heading for the title when leading 2 games to 1 and 6-2, but a succession of tinned returns let Beddoes back into the match, and Beddoes also took the final game to claim a hat-trick of Boston titles with a 11-9, 10-12, 9-11, 11-9, 11-5 score in 63 minutes.

Photo shows Emma (left) and Sarah-Jane.

Chris Fuller (Kenilworth) reached the quarter-final against Kevin Moran with comfortable wins over Sam Ellis (11-7, 11-3, 11-3) and Nick Sutcliffe (11-5, 11-9, 11-5). Fuller twice went a game behind against Moran, but recovered to win 7-11, 13-11, 10-12, 11-5 in 85 minutes. Fuller’s semi-final opponent, top seed Eddie Charlton had an easy quarter-final, and that probably helped Charlton to an 11-4, 11-9, 10-12, 14-12 victory in 80 minutes. Charlton took the title with a 12-10, 11-8, 11-9 victory over Greg Loban.

Sarah-Jane's successful start in France (3rd December 2012)

Sarah-Jane Perry has made a successful debut at top string for French League 1 team Mulhouse in Lille.

Interestingly, her first opponent was Emma Beddoes, her fellow Warwickshire County team-mate from Leamington Spa, who plays for the home team WAM! The more experienced Beddoes was clear favourite, because she had beaten Perry 3-0 in their 2 previous meetings. Beddoes started stronger, shading the first game 11-9. Perry started to pressurise Beddoes by moving her around the court with a great combination of accurate holds and length shots, and won the second.

Beddoes raced to a 6-0 lead in the third, but a somewhat controversial let decision proved to be the turning point of the match, with Perry then scoring 11 consecutive points to take the game. She then also won the next game to win the match 3-1.

Perry also scored a comfortable 3-0 victory over Nathalie Fichet from Squash Royan, to lead Mulhouse to double 3-0 victories.

Sarah-Jane has risen 6 places to 29 in the December World rankings, and looks forward to playing in the World Championships later this month in the Cayman Islands.

Sarah-Jane rises up the World rankings (1st December 2012)

Sarah-Jane Perry has risen six places to number 29 in the latest World Squash rankings, her highest position yet following recent tournament wins in USA and Mexico.

Sarah-Jane will soon be heading to The Cayman Islands for the World Squash Championships.

Sarah-Jane does England proud (5th November 2012)

Sarah-Jane Perry has won the Abierto Mexicano de Raquetas Squash Tournament in Toluca, Mexico, her 4th and biggest tour title to date.

Fresh from her win in New York the previous week, her participation in the event was in doubt due to travel difficulties following Hurricane Sandy. Indeed, the first round had been put back by a day to allow several players time to arrive as soon as flights from the Eastern USA resumed.

Sarah-Jane started with a comfortable 11-8, 11-2, 11-7 (3-0) victory over qualifier Ivonne Diaz from Mexico.

Seeded number 7, she then beat the top 3 seeds for the second consecutive tournament – the quarter-final against third seed Samantha Cornett from Canada proved to be the toughest challenge. Cornett shaded the first two games, with Sarah-Jane feeling the effects of playing in the rarefied atmosphere – Toluca is nearly 9,000 feet above sea level. Sarah-Jane inspired herself with the thought "I haven’t come all this way to lose at this stage", and took the next 3 games to win 11-13, 8-11, 11-6, 11-8, 11-8 (3-2).

The semi-final against second seed Lauren Briggs from England had a strange start – Sarah-Jane did not drop a point in the first game, but then lost the second while struggling to come to terms with the weather – unusually the match was played on an outside glass-back court! Sarah-Jane then took control, reaching the final with a 11-0, 8-11, 11-9, 11-3 (3-1) score-line.

Sarah-Jane started the final against top-seed Line Hansen from Denmark with the mental advantage of her win over Line in New York. The match was televised live on Mexican TV – not something that would be expected in the UK! The match went to form, with Sarah-Jane taking the title 11-6, 11-5, 8-11, 13-11 (3-1). "Sarah-Jane did England proud" quoted the reporter for SquashSite.

The win in New York had helped to lift her World Ranking to 35, and she will now rise further in the December Rankings.

Sarah-Jane wins again (29th October 2012)

Sarah-Jane Perry has won the Pyramid International Squash Tournament in Tuckahoe, New York, USA.

Sarah-Jane, World ranked number 45, was originally not even sure that she was going to play in the tournament due to injury, but she proved her fitness the week before with a highly creditable performance in losing 13-15, 8-11, 9-11 against World number 7 Madeline Perry while playing for Birmingham University in the Professional Squash League match against Nottingham.

7th seeded Sarah-Jane started with a comfortable 11-6, 11-6, 11-5 victory over Katja Amir (Germany), and then scored a hat-trick of 3-1 victories over the top 3 seeds, beating Lauren Briggs (England, 11-5, 8-11, 11-3, 11-9), then top seed Line Hansen (Denmark, 11-8, 11-4, 4-11, 11-7), and finally Kanzy El Dafrawy (Egypt, 7-11, 11-8, 11-9, 11-4) to take the title.

"Pleased to win 3-1 today and win my third WSA title and biggest to date," tweeted the 22 year-old. "Next challenge: get to Mexico when there’s a hurricane warning!"

She is due to play in the tournament later this week in Mexico, but her participation is uncertain because the approaching hurricane Sandy has meant the cancellation of all flights.

Good end of tennis season (9th October 2012)

The weather was kind and produced glorious sunshine for Tennis Captains’ Day.

Thirty club members enjoyed an excellent afternoon’s tennis as "Team James" led by James Roe took on "Team Caroline", led by Caroline Rhodes. The players kept hard at it with five rounds of 25 minutes play each. As they moved between courts they barely had time to meet their next opponents before the whistle blew for the next round!

Team Caroline was victorious, with Jamie Gibson and Patsy Fuller taking men’s and ladies’ individual prizes. Stan Barker and Carolyn Lindsay were top man and woman in Team James.

When finally allowed to sit down and relax, the players and their families enjoyed barbecued hot dogs and burgers thanks to the hard work of Tim Foster. Tim is fast becoming the Club’s barbecue expert! A delightful array of puddings and cakes (courtesy of the ladies) followed.

Things then moved on to the annual trophy presentation as Andy Maguire, tournament organiser, returned from a trip just in time to hand out the trophies. It was good to see new faces amongst the winners, with several "home grown" youngsters registering their names on the trophies.

As Caroline said; "This bodes very well for the future of the Club".

Croquet Finals completed (1st October 2012)

Last week’s rain-affected Taylor Cup Final was completed this week, along with the two major Association Croquet finals, the Secunderabad Cup and the St George’s Cup.

John Leader and Frank Hibberd competed for the Taylor Cup in a best of three 14 point games. This turned into a five hour battle, in which Hibberd won the first game 14-9 and Leader the second 14-6.

In the last game, Hibberd, with very accurate hitting-in, eventually made the breaks which are so essential in this short game, and Leader had the misfortune to send a ball off the lawn at a critical stage. This allowed Hibberd to complete the game for a 14-8 victory and the trophy by 2 games to 1. This gave Hibberd the second trophy of the year, having previously won the Douglas Cup.

The Secunderabad Cup was played between Alan Richardson and Cliff Daniel. This being the final, it was played without a time limit and was a long hard game lasting nearly four hours. Daniel had a clear lead but some misses towards the end allowed Richardson get back into the game. Daniel, however, hung on and ended a clear 26-15 winner.

Philip Wood took on Adrian Morris for the St George’s Cup, also played with no time limit. It was a close fought battle, but two good breaks by Wood gave him the trophy 26-15.

Photo shows Frank Hibberd (left) receiving the Taylor Cup from Tournament manager John Handy.

Good matches at Tennis Finals (24th September 2012)

In the Tennis Club finals on Saturday 22 September, the first match was the Mixed Handicap Singles. Unusually, there were no female entries this year and two 16 year men reached the final.

Jamie Gibson was giving Cameron Fisher a point every other game, but still managed to win the first set 6-0. A change of tactics by Cameron evened things up and he won the second set 6-5, but this led Jamie to raise his game in turn. He finished the match strongly with a 6-2 win in the final set.

The Mixed Open Doubles was between two of the coaches at the Club, Richard Sharman and Tom Holmes and their partners Nicola Jennings, a promising junior, and Ali Usher, a new recruit to the club this year who has played herself straight into the Ladies first team. Richard and Ali were just too strong for Tom and Nicola and won in 2 sets 6-2, 7-6.

Nicola played her second final of the day in the Ladies Open Doubles with her regular team partner and also promising junior, Laura Wilkins. Nicola's mother, Melanie was the other side of the net with her partner Kate Perkins. Nicola had knocked her parents out in the mixed semi final and Melanie got her revenge this time, winning in two classy sets. Maybe next year Nicola!

Next came the Centurions final for mixed couples whose combined ages total 100. Last years champions, Andy Maguire and Belinda Simmons had beaten their opponents Chris Aldridge and Linda Clements in the group stages of this competition and were favourites to win the final. But Chris and Linda were too solid this year, and took the first set 7-5. They then raced to 5-0 in the second set. Belinda and Andy managed to get two games back but Chris and Linda were victorious in the end.

Last on was the much anticipated Men's Open Doubles final, with Richard Sharman and Jamie Gibson against Tom Holmes and Charlie Griffin. Fireworks were expected and arrived. A very high quality and entertaining match was finally won by Richard and Jamie 4-6, 7-5, 6-4.

Photo shows the Ladies Open Doubles finalists, Kate Perkins; Melanie Jennings; Nicola Jennings; Laura Wilkins. .

Lucy wins County Tennis Championship (9th September 2012)

Congratulations to Lucy Gribben, aged 8, who became the 8 and under Warwickshire County Tennis Champion last week at the Warwickshire County Closed Tennis event.

Lucy, from Kenilworth Tennis Club, swept the board at the annual event held at Billesley, Birmingham, by winning each of her 8 matches convincingly, thus achieving this coveted title.

Her coach, Richard Sharman, said; "We are all delighted that Lucy has won this prestigious event, and not only is this a first for her, but it is also the first time Kenilworth Tennis Club have had a county champion. She played some fantastic tennis against tough competition from all over Warwickshire, and remained focused and determined throughout. She did extremely well, and we are all very proud of her."

Mixed end to season for Tennis Ladies (19th August 2012)

In the Coventry and District Ladies Lawn Tennis League, with only two regular first team players available, Division Two champions Kenilworth First team were still able to take two points from their last match against Virgin Active seconds.

Rosie Fuller teamed up with Philippa Middup to take the first rubber against Sarah Guest and Alison Farr 4-6, 6-4, 1-0. Meanwhile, Kate Perkins paired with Laura Wilkins to defeat Charlotte Ray and Sarah Jenkins 6-2, 3-6, 1-0. In the reverse rubbers, Fuller and Middup found the harder-hitting pair of Ray and Jenkins more difficult, losing 2-6, 1-6 whilst Perkins and Wilkins struggled against the experienced Guest and Farr, losing 5-7, 4-6.

At the bottom of the Division, the Second team lost 1-3 to Knowle and Dorridge, who finished one position above them, with both teams relegated. Kay Gebbels and Caroline Rhodes took a close match against Diana Best and Sophie Livesey on a Championship tie break 6-4, 4-6, 1-0, but were overpowered by in form Georgie Lawrie and Lisa Waterhouse 0-6, 1-6. Linda Clements and Kay Tomalin did much better against Lawrie and Waterhouse, losing 3-6, 3-6 but lost to Best and Livesey 2-6, 4-6.

The Third team consolidated a good season with a 3-1 win against Berkswell Seconds, leaving them fifth in Division Three, but equal on points with the two teams above them. Hannah Kingston and Helen Cochrane beat Louise Baker and Suzanne Barney 6-2, 6-2 and then went on to defeat Jessica Crawley and Emma Lycett 6-2, 6-3. Philippa Middup and Gill Cure lost to Crawley and Lycett 3-6, 4-6 and then had a walkover against the other couple due to injury.

The Fourth team had tried so hard to retain their Fourth Division place and everything hung on their last match away against David Lloyd Third team. Needing to win 3-1 to escape relegation, they were heartbroken to lose three Championship tie breaks and go down 0-4.

Chris Coe and Helen Hunter lost 6-3, 4-6, 0-1 to Ruth Williams and Marie Skinner, whilst Belinda Simmons and Sarah Sheldrick came back after a first set defeat, but eventually lost to Dawn Gould and Minu Nathwani 1-6, 6-4, 0-1.They then lost 2-6, 3-6 to Williams and Skinner.

Even though the match was dead, Coe and Hunter fought hard to salvage a point but lost another Championship tie break 2-6, 6-3, 0-1 to Gould and Nathwani.

Cooper Cup competition remembers James and James (3rd August 2012)

Kenilworth and Beechwood Tennis Clubs got together for the second year to play the Cooper Cup competiton which remembers the massive impact James Cooper had on both Clubs. James spent his childhood at Kenilworth, progressing through to senior tennis and into coaching whilst there.

He was a much valued and much loved member of the Club - and is still missed by those who knew him well.. He had only recently moved over to Beechwood as a coach, but such was his presence there that he had already made a great impact on the Club.

The Junior event took place at Kenilworth this year with the Kenilworth youngsters coming out on top by 1035 points to 850. Over at Beechwood, the Kenilworth senior team had a close event, winning 190 games compared to 140 for Beechwood. This resulted in Kenilworth retaining the Cup - much to their delight!

James' parents (Sandy and Stan Cooper) attended the event and Sandy presented the Cup to Tom Holmes and Jasmine and Ollie Roe.

James Roe, Richard Sharman and Anne Holmes were the main organisers for Kenilworth with Hollie Sharman, John Hales and Mik Hennessy overseeing things for Beechwood.

Entry donations and a raffle saw well over £1000 being raised for "ALWAYS A CHANCE", the charity set up in the names of James Cooper and James Kouzaris. Joe Hallett, representing the charity, spoke about the work being done in Warwickshire and Northamptonshire to prevent youngsters turning to violent crime and to support victims of such crime.

The photograph shows Tom Holmes and Ollie Roe with the cup and James Roe and Richard Sharman with Kenilworth youngsters Alice and George.

Tennis Ladies in a clear lead (23rd July 2012)

In the Coventry and District Ladies Lawn Tennis League, with just three weeks to go in the Summer season, a 4-0 victory over Knowle and Dorridge extended the lead of Kenilworth First team lead at the top of the Second Division. With a massive 35 points, they are now nine points clear of nearest rivals Warwick Boat Club Thirds.

Ali Ussher and Annalise Thornhill sailed to easy straight sets victories over Diana Best and Hilary Bramley, and Angela Cross and Lisa Waterhouse. Uncharacteristically, Melanie Jennings and Rosie Fuller struggled in the wet conditions against Cross and Waterhouse, but clinched the Championship tie break 7-5, 6-7, 1-0. Then, having found their feet, they dropped just one game to Best and Bramley.

At the other end of the Division, and looking set for relegation, the Seconds again suffered from a failure to convert the Championship tie breaks at Virgin Active. Kay Gebbels and Caroline Rhodes lost to Alice Molloy and Hannah Pollard 6-2, 3-6, 0-1 and then to Caroline Dempster and Sarah Guest 6-4, 3-6, 0-1.

Linda Clements and Nicola Horobin came through an incredibly long match against Dempster and Guest 7-5, 6-7, 1-0 to take a point for Kenilworth, but then faded against Molloy and Pollard, losing 3-6, 4-6.

The Third team picked up a couple of useful points at David Lloyd against their Second team. Carolyn Lindsay and Hannah Kingston found the experienced Joyce Dale and Jane James tricky and lost 4-6, 3-6, but then beat Antoinette Fisher and Jo Isaacs 6-2, 6-4. Called out of retirement, Patsy Fuller teamed up with Gill Cure to beat Fisher and Isaacs 6-2, 6-2, but lost to Dale and James 4-6, 2-6.

Against Warwick Tennis Club Seconds, Chris Coe and Belinda Simmons for the Fourth team also suffered from being on the wrong end of Championship tie breaks. They lost to Sara Taylor and Susie Hallard 7-6, 4-6, 0-1, and then to Susan Thomas and Sally Young 6-3, 2-6, 0-1.

Kate Ivy, returning to Kenilworth, teamed up with Helen Hunter, but the pair struggled to find their feet in the first rubber, losing 1-6, 3-6 to Thomas and Young. Gaining in confidence, they picked up a consolation point for Kenilworth against Taylor and Hallard with a 2-6, 6-3, 1-0 win.

Exhibition match 25th July and update on junior coaching & security (22nd July 2012)

Wednesday 25th July at 7.20 pm come down to see Chris Fuller take on Chris Ryder who is ranked in the world's top 40. You'll get to see some great squash and hopefully pick up a few tips on how you should play the game.

Saturday coaching sessions for juniors will continue through the summer with a break on Saturdays of 18th & 25th August 2012. Same applies to Squash Tots on 19th & 26th August.

We'll monitor the attendance levels of senior sessions run like Speed & Agility and Intermediate Group Sessions and if numbers remain high enough they'll continue.

We have had three security alerts over the past few months where either monies have been stolen or attempts to break into the bar have taken place.

I would remind members that we all need to be vigilant and not to allow entry to strangers by leaving doors open.

The General Committee are looking at the ways in which we can improve the security of our club.

Keen Croquet competition at Crackley Lane (20th July 2012)

Croquet players from Midlands Clubs have just competed keenly for the July Trophy. Lush grass from recent rains slowed the lawns slightly, but all players congratulated the Club on the excellent state of the lawns, thanks to the lawn manager Ray Clipson and his team.

At the end of the first day, John Leader, with two wins, was the only local survivor to reach the semi-finals. Cliff Daniel and Adrian Morris managed one win each.

In those semi-finals, Leader was beaten by Ian Slater from Edgbaston who went on to beat Peter Stansfield from Northampton in the final.

Photos shows Club President Adrian Morris (right) presenting the trophy to Ian Slater, with the other finalist, Peter Stansfield, looking on.

Close derby tennis match ends in a draw (16th July 2012)

In the Coventry and District Ladies Lawn Tennis League, Kenilworth Tennis Club Ladies have just completed an exciting Derby match between the First and Second teams. This ended in a draw after four Championship tie-breaks, and with just one game in it at the end of the evening.

The First team could field only two of their regular squad, so Mel Jennings teamed up with Jacquie Roe, who rose superbly to the occasion. They ran away with the first set 6-2 before Kay Gebbels and Caroline Rhodes fought back to take the second 6-3. The Championship tie-break went the way of the First team after Gebbels and Rhodes let slip a 4-1 lead.

An equally tight battle then occurred between Rosie Fuller and Hannah Kingston for the Firsts and Linda Clements and Kay Tomalin for the Seconds. Fuller and Kingston lost the first set 4-6 but came back strongly to take the second set 6-2. Clements and Tomalin clinched an exciting tie-break to make it 1-1 at the half way point of the match.

In the reverse rubbers, Jennings and Roe beat Clements and Tomalin 4-6, 6-3, 1-0, whilst Fuller and Kingston lost 7-5, 1-6, 0-1 to Gebbels and Rhodes, making it two points apiece.

Hannah Kingston had a busy week, also turning out for the Third team and taking both rubbers with Nicola Jennings against Rugby Seconds. They beat Rugby’s second couple 7-6, 6-2 and the new partnership then defeated Debbie Smith and Cat Strickland 6-2, 6-3.

Jacquie Roe and Carolyn Lindsay were was less successful, just losing out to Smith and Strickland 7-6, 4-6, 0-1 and equally closely to the seconds 4-6, 7-6, 0-1. The two points keep Kenilworth Thirds comfortably mid-table in the Third Division.

Successful Davis Cup thanks to a brave organiser (15th July 2012)

The "Davis Cup" Mixed Doubles tournament, organised by Mrs Anne Holmes, has just been played at Kenilworth Tennis Club in Crackley Lane.

Mrs Janet Davis sponsors the event in memory of her late husband and former Club member, Mr David Davis. She provides prizes and a cup for the winners.

Teams of four play in mixed pairings against other "countries". The organiser, Mrs Anne Holmes, chooses the names for the teams using countries from which top men and ladies in the contemporary world tennis rankings come.

The winning team was POLAND with 45 points and the runners up TEAM GB had 41 points.

The Middups are mother and daughter and the Whites are husband and wife.

24 players took part. Competition was very close throughout and many players remarked on the "wonderful atmosphere".

Anne Holmes herself sustained an injury to her foot in her first game and also hurt her back when she fell. She had to stop playing, but bravely battled on with the organisation of the day, an act much appreciated by the players.

The winning team, Poland, is pictured with Mrs Janet Davis.

Tennis Ladies battle through the rain (8th July 2012)

In yet another week of appalling weather, simply completing all scheduled matches in the Coventry and District Ladies Lawn Tennis League was an achievement for Kenilworth Tennis Club Ladies!

Kenilworth First team posted a 4-0 win against David Lloyd Solihull Firsts, despite missing many of their key players. Philippa Middup teamed up with Melanie Jennings to beat Kathy Griffiths and Sharon Smitten 6-1, 6-2, and then claimed a Championship tie-break win over Flora Blackett and Jane Hatter 4-6, 6-0, 6-1. Annalise Thornhill and Kay Tomalin beat Blackett and Hatter 6-4, 6-4, but also needed a Championship tie-break against Griffiths and Smitten winning 6-4, 3-6, 1-0.

The Seconds had a disappointing evening against Beechwood Seconds, losing 0-4 in the rain. Linda Clements and Nicola Horobin were slow off the mark and by the time they settled against Sandra Jepson and Chris Scott it was too late to rescue the rubber. They lost 2-6 , 5-7 and found themselves in a similar situation against Yu Hirokohirakawa and Julie Stynes losing 5-7, 4-6. Clare Green and Caroline Rhodes were nowhere near the opposition, losing 1-6, 2-6 to Hirokohirakawa and Stynes and 3-6, 2-6 to Jepson and Scott.

The Thirds’ winning streak came to an end as they met Berkswell Firsts. Philippa Middup and Jacquie Roe lost to Jessica Crawley and Katie Standley 3-6, 2-6 and to Angela Stuart-Smith and Sue Walsh by the same score. The scratch pairing Hannah Kingston and Laura Wilkins were slow to find their feet losing 0-6, 2-6 to Crawley and Standley, but played really well to salvage a point with a Championship tie-break success against Stuart-Smith and Walsh 5-7, 6-3, 1-0.

Laura Wilkins was again in action with her usual partner, Nicola Jennings. to help the Fourths to their first win of the season against Caludon Castle. The pair posted a 6-2, 6-1 win against Denise Barlow and Anne High and a 6-3, 6-2 win against Sue Garner and Vivienne Levenue. Chris Coe and Belinda Simmons had similar straight sets victories, beating Garner and Levenue 6-3, 6-1 and Barlow and High 6-1, 6-1 to take a maximum four points.

Tennis Ladies battle on (1st July 2012)

In the Coventry and District Ladies Lawn Tennis League, a maximum four points away against Leamington Seconds extended Kenilworth first team’s lead at the top of the Second Division to five points. It was no surprise that Melanie Jennings and Kate Perkins, unbeaten this year, defeated both Leamington pairs in straight sets. Rosie Fuller and Annalise Thornhill went to a championship tie-break before beating Cheryl Taylor and Caroline Thompson 1-6, 6-4, 1-0, but had an easier time against Diane Campton and Sue Perkins winning 6-3, 6-2.

Annalise Thornhill was also in action for the Seconds, pairing up with Caroline Rhodes to take two championship tie-breaks against Warwick Boat Club thirds. They beat Fiona Singer and Sue Withycombe 6-2, 3-6, 1-0 and Louise Street and Odette Sykes 6-7, 6-4, 1-0. Linda Clements and Carolyn Lindsay lost an agonisingly close championship tie-break 6-4, 4-6, 0-1 to Street and Sykes and found Singer’s volleying too strong, going down 1-6, 5-7 in their second rubber. In spite of the two points they remain at the bottom of the Division, level on points with Knowle and Dorridge.

The Thirds collected a maximum four points against Virgin Active thirds, who were sadly only able to field one pair. Youngsters Nicola Jennings and Laura Wilkins were delighted to take their rubber 6-4, 6-4 and Jacquie Roe and Gill Cure followed this up with a 6-1, 6-3 win.

The Fourths drew away against Leamington Fourths. Chris Coe and Helen Hunter lost to Catherine Barham and Fiona Hopley 4-6, 6-3, 0-1 but beat Samantha Walters and Mary Sinclair 7-5, 6-3. Sarah Sheldrick and Belinda Simmons beat Walters and Sinclair 7-6, 6-4 but lost to Barham and Hopley 2-6, 4-6.

Kenilworth Croquet in another battle (1st July 2012)

Following last week’s Association Croquet defeat at Edgbaston, this week Kenilworth Croquet Club entertained them at Crackley Lane in the Golf Croquet West Midlands League.

The match started well with the score 2-2 after the first round with wins by Nigel Haslam and Philip Wood. It was downhill from then, however, with Edgbaston demonstrating why they are League favourites. Haslam performed well to score a further two wins and a win by Ray Clipson gave Kenilworth 5 wins to Edgbaston’s 13.

Kenilworth scored a better result later in the week with an Association Croquet victory over Northampton by 6 games to 2. Ray Clipson scored 2 wins with Peter Dennis, John Leader, Frank Hibberd and Adrian Morris also scoring a win.

Busy times for Kenilworth Croquet (25th June 2012)

Kenilworth Croquet Club travelled to Edgbaston for a West Midlands League match. Peter Dennis, Cliff Daniel and Philip Wood all won matches, but Edgbaston’s four victories gave them the match.

In the June Association Croquet Handicap Tournament at Kenilworth, Philip Wood continued his recent run of success by winning all his matches to take the title with Alan Richardson runner-up.

Kenilworth also hosted the Robbie Dodds Tournament, a Midlands competition for high handicappers. Wood and Richardson again played well but Nigel Haslam, also from Kenilworth, took the title undefeated on the day. Thanks are due to Robbie Dodds, one of the top coaches in the Midlands, for managing the event.

Tennis ladies lead their Division (25th June 2012)

In the Coventry and District Ladies Lawn Tennis League, Kenilworth first team cemented their position at the top of Division Two with a convincing four points against Virgin Active seconds. So, at the half way point of the season, their 21 points from a maximum of 28 give them a comfortable three point lead over second placed Warwick Boat Club thirds.

Melanie Jennings and Kate Perkins got off to a great start against Virgin Active, taking the first set without losing a game before Hannah Pollard and Alice Molloy found their feet to force the score to 6-0, 7-5. Meanwhile Rosie Fuller and Ali Ussher won against Alison Farr and Sarah Guest by 6-2, 6-1. They then beat Pollard and Molloy with a similar score of 6-2, 6-2 whilst Jennings and Perkins played out a similar pattern to their first match beating Farr and Guest 6-1, 7-5.

Unfortunately, the Second teams found themselves "propping up the Division" again as they failed to take a point at home against fellow strugglers Knowle and Dorridge. Kay Gebbels and Caroline Rhodes had a championship tie-break nightmare losing two exceptionally close tie-breaks to Diana Best and Angela Cross and then to Georgie Lawrie and Lisa Waterhouse. Linda Clements and Annalise Thornhill lost 4-6, 2-6 to Lawrie and Waterhouse and, in spite of their valiant efforts, were defeated 5-7, 4-6 by Best and Cross.

The Third team were busy, taking seven points in 4 days! At home against Berkswell Second team, Carolyn Lindsay and Philippa Middup continued their successful partnership beating Hilary and Jo Brattle 6-4, 6-0 and dropped only one game against Sally Webber and Jessica Crawley.

Jacquie Roe and Helen Cochrane beat Webber and Crawley 6-3, 7-6 but just lost out to the Brattles 6-4, 6-7, 0-1. In a rearranged match at Rugby a strong Kenilworth team of Linda Clements and Kay Tomalin together with Carolyn Lindsay and Jacquie Roe scored a maximum four points without the loss of a set.

The Fourths were grateful for two points against David Lloyd Thirds but remain firmly at the bottom of Division Four. Chris Coe and Helen Hunter lost to Alana Casey and Helen McHugh 2-6, 2-6 but beat Nicky Wyldes and Gail Wright in a close match 5-7, 6-1, 1-0. Belinda Simmons and Sarah Sheldrick dropped only one game against Wyldes and Wright but found Casey and McHugh too strong, losing 1-6, 3-6.

Sarah-Jane Perry wins in Corsica (25th June 2012)

Sarah-Jane Perry has won the Ile-Rouse Corsican Squash Open.

Seeded 2, Sarah-Jane had reached the final with superb performances in beating Belen Etchechoury (Argentina), 11-6, 11-4, 11-4, Sally Skaarenborg (Denmark) 11-5, 11-6, 11-3 and Maud Duplomb (France) 11-3, 11-3, 11-6. All three opponents found no answers to Sarah-Jane’s hard drives, deft flicks and great retrieving.

The final against Laura Pomportes (France) proved to be a more testing affair. Behind for most of the first game, Sarah-Jane survived 2 game balls before taking it 13-11, and the momentum carried over into the next as Sarah-Jane took a 2 game lead. Some controversial no-let decisions at the start of the 3rd game fired up the home supporters and seemed to upset Sarah-Jane’s concentration, and Laura capitalised, playing some excellent winners to reduce the margin to 1 game. Laura suffered a minor ankle injury at the start of the 4th game, and she seemed to lose concentration while Sarah-Jane’s ability to apply pressure returned, and Sarah-Jane closed out the 45 minute match 13-11, 11-8, 6-11, 11-4 to win her second professional tour title.

In the last 18 months Sarah-Jane’s World Ranking has increased from 243 to 43, and next month will see it rise again. She aims to be in the top 30 this year.

Two (croquet) virgins return from County Week highly satisfied! (17th June 2012)

As many of you will know, Adrian and Cliff had been selected to make their debut in the Inter Counties Championship this year. This event, involving 22 County Teams, has been described as the largest festival of croquet in the world for it involves approximately 150 players – the vast majority of whom are A Class Standard – competing intensely over 4 days on lawns at Eastbourne and Southwick.

Click here for report (PDF).

Good wins for Croquet (17th June 2012)

On Monday, 11 June, Kenilworth Croquet Club defeated Edgbaston in the first round of the Longman’s Cup, a national Association Croquet competition. This was followed up on Thursday 14 June with a victory against the Worcestershire side, Broadwas in the West Midlands Golf Croquet League.

In the morning session at Edgbaston, Adrian Morris and Peter Dennis took their doubles match and Cliff Daniel and Philip Wood both won their singles to take a 3-0 lead. Morris and Wood won their afternoon singles to give Kenilworth a 5–2 win.

In the match versus Broadwas, Philip Wood again performed well to win all four of his singles. Adrian Morris scored three wins, with one each for Ray Clipson and John Handy giving Kenilworth the lead and needing just one win from the doubles. This looked difficult when the number one pair of Wood and Morris lost narrowly by 7–6, having been 4–0 down.

Clipson and Handy made no mistake though and gained the win for Kenilworth with a clear 7–2 victory.

Mixed fortunes for Tennis Ladies (17th June 2012)

In the Coventry and District Ladies Lawn Tennis League, there have been mixed fortunes for Crackley Lane teams. While Kenilworth Ladies First and Third teams had matches postponed due to rain, the Second team played on an almost balmy Wednesday evening.

The weather obviously suited the Kenilworth team, as they picked up a useful maximum four points at Leamington against their Second team. Kay Gebbels and Caroline Rhodes found their concentration slipping in the second set against Caitlin Knights and Cheryl Taylor and were forced into a Championship tie-break, eventually coming through 6-2, 6-7, 1-0.

Nicola Horobin and Annalise Thornhill had no such lapses against Di Campton and Sue Perkins, winning 6-2, 6-3. In their second rubbers both Kenilworth couples scored 6-3, 6-3 wins. The four points lifted Kenilworth off the bottom of Division Two.

At the top of the Division, Kenilworth First team played their postponed match against Warwick Boat Club Thirds, just completing the match before heavy rain battered the courts again. Melanie Jennings and Kate Perkins were their usual composed selves, beating Fiona Singer and Louise Street 6-0, 6-4 and Odette Sykes and Sue Lennox 6-2, 6-1.

Rosie Fuller and Hannah Kingston were, however, unlucky to lose two close Championship tie breaks. The two points keep Kenilworth Firsts on top of the Division, two points ahead of Boat Club.

The Fourths are finding the going tough in Division Four this year and failed to score at Leamington against the Leamington Third team. Chris Coe and Belinda Simmons lost to Laura Cale and Clare Blenkinsop 2-6, 2-6 and to Bryony Farey and Karen Mothersdale 3-6, 0-6.

Helen Hunter and Louise Wilkins pushed Farey and Mothersdale harder, but lost 5-7, 2-6 and then went out in straight sets to Cale and Blenkinsop 2-6, 3-6.

Sarah-Jane in great form in Chennai (27th May 2012)

Sarah-Jane Perry performed really well in the Chennai Open Squash Tournament.

Seeded 3, Sarah-Jane started with a straightforward 11-4, 11-2, 11-6 victory over Australian Jessica Turnbull, but then fell behind against Victoria Bell, a fellow former British National Junior Champion. Perry dug in to take the next three games, progressing with a 8-11, 11-4, 11-9, 11-4 victory.

The semi-final against Anaka Alankamony, a rising Indian star, proved even tougher – even with air conditioning the court temperature was 30 centigrade. Sarah-Jane had to come back from match ball down in the fourth, but eventually won a 69 minute epic 8-11, 11-5, 6-11, 14-12, 11-6.

She was matched in the final against second seed Joshna Chinappa from India. Sarah-Jane took the first game, but then Joshna’s greater experience and hometown support told as she took the title 9-11, 11-4, 11-8, 12-10.

Incredible inflatable squash court (22nd May 2012)

Watch the incredible inflatable squash court in action at the Kenilworth Festival 2012.

Watch on You Tube

Girls top County Leaderboard (21st April 2012)

Grace Gamble (Winner) and Lucy Gribben (Runner-up) capped a successful end to the Under 9 "Orange ball" competition for the Winter 2011/2012 season by finishing 1st and 2nd on the Warwickshire County Leaderboard.

The girls have also qualified for the finals of the Warwickshire AEGON Team Tennis competition which will take place on Semi-Finals day of the WTA AEGON Classic event taking place at the Egbaston Priory Club in Birmingham (11th - 17th June).

Ladies Tennis A team clinch promotion (21st April 2012)

In the Stratford and District Ladies Winter Tennis League, Kenilworth A team have clinched promotion back to the First Division. With Bidford already confirmed as winners of Division Two with 29 points, it all came down to the last match against Leamington B. Twice postponed due to snow and rain, the match was finally played in glorious sunshine.

With both teams equal on 22 points there was everything to play for. Kenilworth were comfortably 2-0 up at the halfway stage with Melanie Jennings and Linda Clements beating Susan Hopcraft and Di Campton in straight sets, and Kay Gebbels and Caroline Rhodes posting a similar score against Laura Cale and Caroline Thompson. Both couples then found themselves fighting close championship tie-breaks in the return matches, before eventually completing a 4-0 victory.

Kenilworth B team, captained by Helen Cochrane, also had a rearranged match, but lost to a strong Littletons team and are unfortunately relegated from a very strong Third Division.

Kenilworth also entered a new C team in Division Eight. Captain Anne Holmes marshalled a group of 14 players, to finish a very creditable third in the Division, with several players having their first-ever experience of match tennis.

In the Warwickshire Ladies Veterans League, all again rested on the last match, with Kenilworth Firsts needing to beat Leamington 8-0 to retain their title.

It was always a tall order, and in the event, Leamington took the First Division title with a 4-4 draw, pushing captain Kay Gebbels’ Kenilworth team back into fourth position.

Kenilworth Second team came a creditable sixth in the Second Division, with Gill Cure captaining a large group of enthusiastic players.

Ladies Tennis Captain, Dr Caroline Rhodes, summed up; "Overall, the Ladies had a good winter, with an excellent spirit of friendship all round. And now we look forward to an equally challenging but enjoyable Summer".

Sarah-Jane is National Under 23 Squash Champion (16th April 2012)

Sarah-Jane Perry from Kenilworth Squash Club in Crackley Lane has just won won the National U23 Squash Championships, held at Hunts County Squash Club.

Top seeded Sarah-Jane reached the final with straightforward 3-0 victories over Georgie Ingham (11-7, 11-7, 11-4), Alicia Mead (11-2, 11-6, 11-4) and Kirsty West (11-4, 11-5, 11-7) where she faced Carrie Ramsey (see photo), who succeeded Sarah-Jane as European Junior Squash Champion.

Sarah-Jane started the final in commanding fashion, winning the first game comfortably and racing to a 9-5 lead in the second, although she only just shaded it. Carrie then had her strongest run of the match to lead 6-1 in the third, but Sarah-Jane’s come back wasn’t quite enough so the match went into a 4th game - Sarah-Jane stayed ahead through this game, winning the title with a score of 11-3, 11-9, 10-12, 11-9 (3-1).

"Pleased to win the final today 3-1 for my 2nd British title, " tweeted the champion, "and glad my parents were able to come down to watch! "

Now aged 21, Sarah-Jane hopes be able to defend her title next year.

Ladies Squash in more competitions (1st April 2012)

The winter season is over with regard to the Warwickshire Squash & Racketball matches but our Ladies are still involved in two competitions. Not just content with having won the 2nd division of the Warwickshire league they are playing Pontefract Ladies on Tuesday 3rd April 2012 in The National Club Championships and West Warwicks in the final of The Inaugural Warwickshire League Cup on Wednesday 18th April 2012.

Please come down and cheers our ladies on these dates as they will be up against stiff opposotion. You will see some good squash and hopefully your support will spur them on.

Both matches will start at 7.30 pm.

Chloe Pearson second in National Squash Championships (5th March 2012)

Chloe Pearson was runner up once again in the English National Championships just held in Surrey.

Having reached the final at Under 13, 15 and 17 age groups she was hoping to take her good recent form in to the Under 19 level. She was seeded to come fourth but started powerfully beating Annie Openshaw-Blower from Cheshire comfortably 3-0.

She then produced the same score to beat Hannah Crichton of Cumbria and in the semi final came up against an old foe Georgina Ingham from Surrey. She went 2-0 up but lost a close third, before powering away in the fourth 11-3 to go in to the final.

Once again she was up against fellow England player Victoria Temple-Murray from Devon who was the top seed. Victoria justified her position by being too strong for Chloe who wasn’t able to match her power and went down 3-0.

Chloe performed above her ranking at this National tournament and has one more year to achieve the ultimate title before she moves out of the Junior events.

She is the number 4 ranked under-19 player in the country and plays for both the adult Men’s and Ladies teams at the Kenilworth Club, where she is coached by Steve Townsend as part of his elite junior squad. This is arguably one of the strongest junior sections in the country.

Success for Grace in Birmingham (3rd January 2012)

Success for Kenilworth player, Grace Gamble at the David Lloyd Birmingham 9 & under (Orange Ball) Xmas Open - Grade 4, County level tournament.

Grace played in this Grade 4 competition on Thursday 22 December. Grace won all of her group matches to qualify for the final, and then went on to win the final 7-5, 7-5.

Grace then followed this up with an impressive performance at the University of Warwick Xmas Open - Grade 3, Regional level tournament on the 29th December, where she qualified for the quarter finals by winning 3 out of 4 group matches. Grace put up a good fight in the quarter finals before being defeated 7-4, 9-7 by Amelia Rajeski from Nottinghamshire.

Tennis Ladies look forward to good season (3rd January 2012)

As we head into 2012, Kenilworth Tennis Ladies are looking forward to a good second half of the Winter season.

In the Stratford and District Winter League, Kenilworth A are comfortably in third position in Division 2, just one point behind Leamington B who lead with 13 points.

Promoted to Division 3 last year, Kenilworth B have had many excellent hard fought games but unfortunately just failed to clinch the vital points, leaving them at present one point off the bottom of the Division.

Kenilworth C are new to the League, entering at Division 8. Many members of the team are new to league tennis and supported by their more experienced colleagues they have enjoyed good matches and are proud to be third in the Division on twelve points.

In the Birmingham and District Ladies Veterans League, Kenilworth Ladies field two teams. The standard throughout is extremely high and the tennis is greatly enjoyed by all who play.

After five matches last year’s winners, Kenilworth First team, are in third position in Division 1 on 28 points. Blossomfield Firsts are 2 points ahead but have played an extra game, whilst old rivals Leamington head the Division on 33 points.

Kenilworth Second team have fielded a selection of players, giving match opportunities to a large and enthusiastic band of veteran ladies. They are at the foot of Division 2 after five games, but also have games in hand over teams above them.

Sarah-Jane Perry wins first WISPA title (20th December 2011)

Sarah-Jane Perry has just won her first WISPA Squash Title, the Sage Solution Manor Open at Ilkeston.

The Kenilworth rising star was seeded 2, and eased past South African Cheyna Tucker 11-9, 12-10, 11-4 in the first round, followed by a quarter-final victory over fellow former England Junior International Julianne Courtice 11-7, 11-7, 14-12.

Perry’s semi-final opponent was local favourite Laura Hill, who had won all of their previous encounters. Hill started the better of the two, and won the first game without too much fuss. Perry seemed to take on board the advice of her club coach Steve Townsend because she changed her tactics and took control of the ‘T’ to great effect, using a variety of shots that Hill could not match as she won 8-11, 11-6, 11-4, 11-6.

The final pitted Sarah-Jane against Tania Bailey, double medallist at the Commonwealth Games, and former World Number 4 and England captain. Bailey had shaded their recent match at the London Open, and drew on her experience by winning the first after some fast rallies that drew applause from the appreciative crowd after nearly every point. The second game was punctuated by many lets, Perry prevailing to level at 1 game all. The match seesawed for the next 2 games, Bailey winning the third and reaching match ball in the fourth, but then the younger player turned the tables to win the fourth and take an 8-5 lead in the fifth before Bailey retired with a recurrence of a knee injury.

After the match, Sarah-Jane said "We both played well in patches, however our movement patterns were clashing, so there were plenty of lets. Tania took the first and third games, I took the second, and clawed my way back from match-ball down in the fourth to take the game 12-10 and the match into a deciding fifth game. It was clear from the start of the fifth that Tania was struggling, and unfortunately after 75 minutes of play she was forced to retire with a knee injury when I was leading 8-5.

I sincerely hope that Tania makes a speedy recovery. Obviously this not how I would have liked to have won my first title, but hopefully it will be the first of many. Now I am going to have a week off before getting in some good training for a month. My next block of tournaments will start with the Edinburgh Open at the end of January."

This victory will help to raise Perry’s World Ranking of 83 – she is aiming for a top-20 place within 2 years and to represent England in the Commonwealth Games. She recently won a game against current World Number 4 Madeline Perry (not a relation) while playing for Birmingham University in the Premier Squash League, showing that she has the ability, fitness and mental strength to compete with the world’s top players

Ex member now World Croquet Champion (28th November 2011)

Rachel Rowe was recently crowned World Champion at the Women’s World Golf Croquet championships in New Zealand.

Rachel now works in Nottingham, but was a member of the Kenilworth Tennis, Squash and Croquet Club during her three years at Warwick University and improved steadily throughout that time.

In the finals played over eight days, Rachel won 22 of her 24 games in the block stages and then the knock-out rounds. In the Final, she met the much more experienced Jenny Clarke on her home soil.

In the best of five games final, Rachel won the first 7-3 and was 4-0 up in the second, but Jenny came back to win 7-6. Jenny also took the third 7-5. Another tight duel in the fourth resulted in a 7-6 victory to Rachel and a very close 7-5 win in the decider gave Rachel the title.

Sarah-Jane Perry wins Northumbria Squash Open (28th November 2011)

Sarah-Jane Perry has just beaten higher ranked New Zealander Amanda Landers-Murphy 3-0 to win the Northumbria Squash Open, her first senior title.

Sarah-Jane started the tournament with a comfortable 11-7, 11-5, 11-8 victory over local favourite Sarah Oswald, to set up a semi-final against top seed Dominique Lloyd-Walter, a former Kenilworth club-mate and an ex World top 20 ranked player.

Sarah-Jane started playing controlled squash, taking the first 2 games, and at 8-5 in the third it looked like a shock was in store. Lloyd-Walter’s experience finally kicked in, forcing Perry out of her stride, and levelled at 2-all, but Perry restored her composure in the fifth, winning 11-6, 11-7, 10-12, 8-11, 11-5.

In the Final, Perry used her superior racket skills to control the early exchanges in each game but Landers-Murphy fought back each time to create a very fast, feisty final. In the end, however, Perry just edged each game of this closely fought contest, taking it 11/9, 11/6, 12/10.

Another Kenilworth star, Chris Fuller, reached his second Professional Squash Association final in the Gdansk Open in Poland, losing 1-11, 10-12, 4-11 to Rasmus Nielson from Denmark. Unseeded Chris had started the tournament with an 11-6, 11-6, 6-11, 11-4 over Carsten Schoor, and then toppled fourth seed Bart Ravelli 15-13, 11-9, 11-8 and second seed Joan Lexaud 11-7, 11-6, 11-7.

Sarah-Jane just misses out in Rotterdam (14th November 2011)

Sarah-Jane Perry has just played in the 2011 World Squash Championships, held in Rotterdam.

In the qualifying section there was a straightforward for Sarah-Jane over Nayelly Hernandez from Mexico 11-2, 11-1, 11-6 12-10, 11-4, 11-4.

Then Sarah-Jane made a slow start in losing the first 2 games against Egyptian Nour El Sherbini, World Ranked 29, but came back strongly to level at 2 all. A shock looked possible as Sarah-Jane reached match-ball at 10-9 in the decider, but was unlucky to have a string break as she tried to play the winning shot, and then lost the next 2 points, just losing the match 5-11, 7-11, 12-10, 11-7, 10-12. This is a very creditable result for Sarah-Jane against the former World Junior Champion.

"I gave her too much respect in the first two," admitted Perry, "and I hit too many tins too! After that it was much better, but match ball wasn't a good time for my strings to go, and after that I hit the corner of the front wall twice in a row. Next time, next time ..."

Sarah-Jane has risen to 82 in the World rankings.

Kenilworth up to second (9th November 2011)

A swelled gallery saw Guy Salmon Jaguar Kenilworth Men’s 1st Team maintain their unbeaten home record this season, which propelled them up to second place in the Warwickshire league top division. This year there are a lot of teams very evenly matched, and whilst the Crackley Lane crew have come close in recent seasons, they will be confident of going one better this year.

Sarah-Jane Perry had her customary 3-2 match, but for a change she was on the wrong end of that scoreline, in a very entertaining see-saw battle. Steve Townsend and Chris Hall were coming off some poor recent form, and they seemed to have put them behind them with more authoritative displays than seen of late. Both won comfortably, 3-0 and 3-1 respectively. Guy Pearson’s form hasn’t really appeared yet this season, and he went down unexpextedly at two string, 3 games to 1.

The star performer, winning what turned out to be the deciding rubber was debutant Richie Rosenthal. A stalwart of Warwickshire League, but having had a sabbatical of a number of years through illness, he seems to have found his spiritual home at Kenilworth and rediscovered that hard to find quality – grittyness. Looking second best for large parts of his match he found a way to contrive a 3-0 victory and the bonus points for his team. He set a fine example to some of his younger team mates.

More great squash achievements (16th October 2011)

The Squash Club’s young players are having a great run of success.

Sarah-Jane Perry from Kenilworth has just defied the seedings to reach the final of the Dread Sports WISPA Squash Tournament in Washington D.C., USA.

Sarah-Jane started by defeating Canadian Alexandra Norman (third seed) 11-4, 8-11, 11-6, 17-15, including an epic final game in which Alexandra survived 4 match balls. The quarter-final against Welsh number 2 Tesni Evans (seventh seed) was even closer, Sarah-Jane winning more of the vital points, gaining a 10-12, 11-9, 11-9, 14-12 victory in 61 minutes.

Sarah-Jane (World ranked 114) started very much the under-dog against 7 times USA National Champion Latasha Khan, (World ranked 25 and seeded second), but shocked the crowd by taking the first 2 close games. Latasha edged the third, and seemed to take control of the match in winning the fourth, but Sarah-Jane played the more composed squash in the final game, and forced numerous errors from her more experienced opponent, winning 14-12, 11-9, 9-11, 5-11, 11-4. This is by far the best individual win in Sarah-Jane’s squash career so far.

Things looked good for Sarah-Jane at the start of the final against Indian number 1 and top seed Dipika Pallikal (World ranked 20) as she raced to a 9-5 lead, but Dipika had a purple patch and took the first 2 games. The third game was close, as Sarah-Jane continued to hit hard drives into the corners, but Pallikal triumphed 11-9, 11-3, 11-7 to take the title.

Sarah-Jane will rise up the World rankings following her fine wins in this tournament, and will look forward with confidence to the forthcoming Santiago Open and the World Championships in Rotterdam.

Club-mate Chris Fuller had a fine 12-10, 11-5, 11-1 victory over Florent Pontiere of France in the Ixi Open at Pardubice, Czech Republic. He narrowly lost in second round, despite leading 10-5 in the final game, to top seeded Dylan Bennett of the Netherlands 11-8, 4-11, 8-11, 12-10, 11-13 in 80 minutes – Chris saved an amazing 10 match-balls.

Many thanks go to Chris and Sarah-Jane’s coach at Kenilworth, Steve Townsend.

Photo shows Sarah-Jane in play against Dipika Pallikal.

Chloe wins Coventry Open Championship (16th October 2011)

Seventeen year old Chloe Pearson from Kenilworth Squash Club in Crackley Lane has just won the prestigious Coventry Open Ladies Championship.

This tournament is a very well sponsored event, attracting some of the best young professional players in the country and was held at the Coventry and North Warwicks Club.

Chloe met local favourite Rebecca Moss in the first round, winning three games to nil. In the semi-finals, she came up against Birmingham University student Hannah Vaughan, again winning three nil, and in the final she produced a similar score line to defeat fellow Junior County player Lucy Pallet from the Cleaver Club in Nuneaton.

Chloe is having one remarkable success after the other, and this tournament was a good warm up for the National Junior Championships, which she will contest at the end of the month in Manchester.

She is coached by Steve Townsend, a very successful coach who has a string of County and National players under his tutelage. She also plays in the Mens’ teams at the Club, who during the Winter season, turn out every Monday night.

Entertaining tennis finale (9th October 2011)

The 2011 tennis season finished in entertaining fashion, with the traditional Captains’ Day Tournament followed immediately by a barbecue and prize giving.

Ladies Captain Caroline Rhodes and Mens Captain Tom Holmes each had a team of 23 members, who played a mixture of mens, ladies and mixed doubles designed to give everyone as fair a chance as possible.

Each match finished after exactly 25 minutes,regardless of the score. Some very good tennis, including some needle matches between friendly rivals, resulted.

Caroline’s team eventually won by 480 games to 409.

The individual winner among the men was Rob Stanton, with Stan Barker runner-up.

Alison Ducker was the leading lady, with Lucy Hughes and Philippa Middup joint runners-up.

The ensuing prize giving covered events during the whole season, with both winners and runners-up receiving trophies. The one remaining event, the Mens Doubles Final, will be played shortly.

Head Coach James Roe, who played a major part in organising the day, said: "We have had some really good tennis all season, and above all, we showed again what a friendly Club we have. Newcomers are always welcome at Crackley Lane".

Two very hard-working Tennis Committee members, Anne Holmes and Janet Robinson, are finally stepping down, and Caroline paid a special tribute to them as "true heroines of our Club, to whom we are all greatly indebted."

Photo shows winners and runners-up, left to right; Stan Barker; Rob Stanton; Alison Ducker; Philippa Middup; Lucy Hughes.

Click here for photo gallery.

Double Victory for Nigel Haslam in croquet finals (3rd October 2011)

Last weekend saw the final competitive games played on the croquet lawns before the end of the season. Members competed in the finals of six competitions.

On the Saturday, Nigel Haslam took the Pindi Cup for Golf Croquet. Having lost the first game to Philip Wood 4 - 7, he recovered well to win the next two.

Haslam followed up this success on Sunday by taking the Taylor Cup undefeated in three short lawn Association Croquet games. John Handy was runner-up with two wins.

The other Golf Croquet final, the Kenilworth Cup was also a close affair, with Charles Wade the winner and Tim Leggatt runner-up.

The other competitions were in the Association Croquet format. Bill Sidebottom took the St George Cup, beating Cliff Daniel by just two hoops.

Cliff Daniel also fought well in the final of the Bill Browne Trophy but Philip Wood was just too good on the day, winning 14 – 6.

The Secunderabad Cup was won by an in-form Adrian Morris, beating Alan Richardson 26 – 9.

Click here for full details of the Club Competitions in 2011.

Great performances from Tennis youngsters (3rd October 2011)

At the Warwickshire County Tennis Championships held at Bilsley Tennis Centre in August and September, there were many great performances, with over 20 entrants from the Club.

In the Under 8 group, Grace Gamble and Connor Beckinsale were joint runners up, while Lucy Griben and Leon Wallis were respectively third and fourth. This made Kenilworth by far the most successful Club in this age group!

In the Under 14 Boys Doubles, Timmy Griew and Joseph Porter were joint runners-up.

Freddie Davies won the Under 12 Singles Plate event.

In the Mens’ Open Singles Plate, Tom Holmes beat Charlie Griffin in a three set thriller. Both players were successful coaches at Club, but Tom has now left for University.

Head Tennis Coach James Roe said; "I am enormously pleased with these successes. We are very proud of the encouragement given to young players at Crackley Lane and the results speak for themselves"

Hard Battles at Tennis Finals (20th September 2011)

The Tennis finals day on Saturday 17 September was marked by some very hard battles and a display of real sportmanship.

Unfortunately the men's open doubles between James Roe/Richard Sharman and Charlie Griffin/Tom Holmes could not take place because James Roe was ill, but Tom and Charlie, who could have claimed the title without playing a game, graciously said that they would prefer to play the match at a later date.

So the Handicap Singles final was first on. Charlie Griffin and Mike Crisp both on 0we 40 made it to the final which was a highly charged affair with some great tennis from these two aggressive and attacking players. Mike emerged victorious after nearly two and a half hours 4-6, 6-4, 6-3.

Next came the Centurions final. This is contested between mixed pairs whose combined age adds up to 100. Caroline Rhodes and Steve Proctor were slight favourites, as they had beaten Belinda Simmons and Andy Maguire in the group stages, but Andy and Belinda were determined to go one better this time.

Caroline's experience told and she and Steve took the first set 6-4. Belinda and Andy settled down in the second and took it 6-3. When they were 5-2 up in the last set, they seemed nearly over the line, but a spirited fight back by Caroline and Steve took it to 5-5. But Belinda and Andy held their nerve and won the final two games to win 7-5.

Next up was the Ladies Open final and, after a short break, Caroline was back with her partner Rosie Fuller to take on favourites Kate Perkins and Melanie Jennings. Some high quality baseline rallies made this a joy to watch with very few unforced errors, but Mel and Kate went 3-0 up in the first set and won 6-3.

The second set looked to be going the same way as Rosie was broken in the first game and Mel took the second but a determined Caroline won her serve to love and then Kate was broken to make it 2-2.

However Mel and Kate then won 4 in a row to take the match. This was described by someone there as "the classiest final of the day".

The last match was the Open Mixed final, featuring husband and wife Melanie and Paul Jennings and Tom Holmes and Caroline Rhodes in her third final of the afternoon. Despite playing very well, she was inevitably flagging a little after two really tough matches and Paul and Melanie were too strong and took the match 6-3, 6-4.

The presentations will be made after Captain's Day on 9 October.

Pauline Harvey takes Ladies Croquet title (18th September 2011)

The Kenilworth Ladies Association Croquet Final took place at Crackley Lane on Sunday 18 September with seven finalists competing for the trophy.

As the afternoon progressed, two players drew clear and when they met in the fifth round, victory gave the trophy to Pauline Harvey with 5 wins, with Diane Fitch runner up with four wins. Jean Wilson was third and Claire Heathcock, playing in her first season, came a very creditable fourth.

Also this week, Kenilworth travelled to Edgbaston for the final Golf Croquet league match of the season. The first doubles pair of Philip Wood and Nigel Haslam started the day with an excellent win against an Edgbaston pair ranked much higher. This game was worth 2 points and the second pair of Ray Clipson and John Handy also won, to give Kenilworth a three point lead.

Nigel Haslam continued his success with victory in all four singles matches, and with Philip Wood winning three of his, Kenilworth took the match by 11 – 8.

Click here for full details of the Club Competitions in 2011.

Sarah-Jane does well against former World Number 1 (2nd September 2011)

Sarah-Jane Perry pushed Vanessa Atkinson (Netherlands), top seed and former World Squash Number 1, in the recent Nottingham WISPA Open.

Sarah-Jane started with a straightforward 11-8, 11-5, 11-5 over fellow former England Junior International Julianne Courtice, who had earlier beaten Kenilworth’s Chloe Pearson 11-4, 11-3, 11-4.

She then beat 3rd seed Birgit Coufal (Austria) 11-13, 11-5, 11-6, 11-7 and 5th seed Celia Allamargot (France) 11-4, 8-11, 13-11, 11-9 to set up a semi-final against Atkinson.

The first 2 games were close, Atkinson just winning both 11-9 despite Perry having a 9-7 advantage in the 2nd. Perry looked favourite to take the match as she easily won the 3rd against the tired-looking Dutch woman 11-4, but Atkinson rallied to take the final game and win the match 11-9, 11-9, 4-11 11-3. Atkinson took the title by beating Laura Hill 9-11, 11-3, 11-3, 11-4 in the final.

This success has moved Sarah-Jane from 144 to 123 in the World Rankings. She recently became a full-time squash player after gaining a BSc at Warwick University.

Success at the 8U Warwickshire County Closed (28th August 2011)

Success for two Kenilworth players at the 8 and Under Warwickshire County Closed singles tournament which took place on Saturday 27th August at the LTA's Billesley indoor tennis centre in Birmingham.

Grace Gamble was the 8 and Under Warwickshire Girls Singles Runner-up after losing a close fought final against Mia Faulkner from Edgbaston Priory. Grace qualified for the final after winning all of her group qualifying matches, and overcoming fellow Kenilworth player Lucy Gribben in the Semi-final.

Connor Beckinsale was the 8 and Under Warwickshire Boys Singles Runner-up after losing a close fought final against Harry Lazell from The University of Warwick. Connor qualified for the final after winning all of his group qualifying matches, and overcoming Ben Hillyard from Rugby in the Semi-final.

Both players are part of Kenilworth's Performance Tennis Programme, and their success is testimony to the efforts of Kenilworth's Performance Coach Richard Sharman, and the other tennis coaches at Kenilworth.

Kenilworth in narrow Croquet loss to Edgbaston (26th August 2011)

Kenilworth hosted Edgbaston for the West Midlands Association Croquet League match this week and were perhaps unlucky to be defeated by four games to three.

The morning doubles game was error strewn on both sides, with Edgbaston gaining a win by just two hoops. In his singles game, Charles Wade was victorious in his debut for Kenilworth easily beating his opponent, 26 – 3. Cliff Daniel was five hoops from victory with just ten minutes to go but a lucky shot by his opponent led to a five hoop break to take the match under the “Golden Hoop” decider rule.

The afternoon saw a quick 26 – 5 victory for Adrian Morris following two excellent breaks. Then came another victory for Ray Clipson including one hoop scored by jumping over the opponent’s ball to score the hoop- one of the most difficult shots in croquet altogether. Unfortunately, however, defeat in the other two games meant a close loss for Kenilworth.

Click here for full details of all matches and results in 2011.

Ladies third team win their Division (8th August 2011)

In the Coventry and District Ladies Lawn Tennis League, Kenilworth Third Team, captained by Gill Cure, going into their last match, were four points clear of their nearest rivals and certain of promotion as Division Four champions. Playing at Coventry and North Warwicks, they took another two points to give an excellent tally of 31 points from twelve matches.

Carolyn Lindsay and Jacquie Roe took both their rubbers, needing a championship tie-break for the first. Helen Allen and Gill Cure lost both their matches, perhaps having been unsettled by a long wait as the others battled it out on the only available floodlit court.

The other regular squad members during the season were Patsy Fuller and Clare Green, with Linda Clements and Helen Cochrane each playing one match.

Although already relegated, the First Team finished on a high, taking three points at Rugby. Melanie Jennings and Kate Perkins were delighted with a 4-6, 6-2, 1-0 win against old rivals Sharon Jones and Rachael Baker and then beat Charlotte Brayson and Rebecca Thomas 6-4, 6-4.

Transferring from her usual place on the squash court, Sarah-Jane Perry played for the Firsts on her only outing this year with Rosie Fuller. They beat Brayson and Thomas 6-4, 6-0 but lost to the wily Jones and Baker 2-6, 0-6.

The Second Team were delighted with their fourth place finish in Division Two, finishing with a draw against David Lloyd Solihull 2. Kay Gebbels and Caroline Rhodes won a marathon match against Flora Blackett and Anne Woodward 7-6, 6-7, 1-0, and then beat Antoinette Fisher and Wendy Supperstone 6-3, 6-2.

Linda Clements and Kay Tomalin were however unable to find form at the same time and lost both in straight sets.

The Fourth Team needed two points from their last match at home against Hampton in Arden 2 to preserve their own place in Division Four. Going into the second half, the score was tantalisingly 1-1. Captain Chris Coe was thrilled as she and Belinda Simmons captured the second point that was needed, matching the win of Helen Hunter and Lucy Hughes in their first rubber. Both couples lost their other match in a championship tie-break.

Ladies Captain Caroline Rhodes said; "Overall, our ladies were pleased with their season, and the tennis was of a very good standard throughout".

Chloe on great form in World Championships (7th August 2011)

17 year old Chloe Pearson from Kenilworth Squash Club in Crackley Lane has just exceeded expectations by winning through to the top 32 in the Girls World Under 19 championships in Boston, USA.

She was one of six players selected from around the country to represent England and was ranked number five in that group. However, she performed so well that she went further in the competition than all but one of them.

The tournament was held at the prestigious Harvard University, with nineteen countries represented. In the opening round, she was matched against the Canadian number four Abbey Foster and won in four sets of combative squash by a 3-1 score line.

This was as far as she was expected to go, as she came up against the Dutch number one Ilona Lagerweij. She was helped by the fact that they had played before in a European tournament and was never overawed throughout a tight match, once again winning by three games to one.

In the next round she found out how strong you have to be to win World titles, as she came up against 18 year old Nouran El Torky from Egypt. The Egyptians are the strongest junior squash nation in the world and went on to win both individual and team gold medals. Chloe tried her best but was beaten in three sets by a girl who made it to the top four in the competition.

The experience gained has been invaluable to Chloe, who is coached by Steve Townsend who has a string of County and National players under his tutelage. Chloe is ranked number 5 in the Country at Under 19 level, despite only just entering the category and is beginning to play in some professional women’s tournaments in a bid to improve her squash.

She plays in the mens’ teams at the Club, who during the winter season turn out every Monday night. She is a pupil at Kenilworth Sixth Form College and she has been indebted to them for being flexible and allowing her to have time out to attend these competitions.

James Cooper Cup (4th August 2011)

Kenilworth and Beechwood Tennis Clubs came together on Saturday 23rd July to celebrate the contribution made to both clubs by the late James Cooper.

Juniors played in events at Beechwood ranging from Mini Red players through to Under 14s.

At Kenilworth, senior players played Mens and Ladies Doubles with some Mixed Doubles as well. All results were added together and Kenilworth were the victorious club. Ollie Roe and his father James Roe collected the James Cooper Cup which was presented by Sandy and Stan Cooper (James' parents) and John Hales and Tom Holmes on behalf of the Clubs.

Donations on the day for entry into the event and a raffle amounted to £2500 which was sent to Always a Chance - the charity set up in the names of James and his late friend James Kouzaris. The charity aims to support people sadly affected by violent crime, or in danger of becoming involved in violent crime, in this country.

The event was organised by James Roe and Anne Holmes for Kenilworth and Hollie Sharman, Richard Marklow and John Hales for Beechwood.

Tennis Ladies in near miss (1st August 2011)

In the Coventry and District Ladies Lawn Tennis League, Kenilworth First Team needed four points against Esporta Second Team to have any hope of First Division survival. Melanie Jennings playing with Kate Perkins, and Rosie Fuller and Sarah Money, duly rose to the challenge, losing only one set. Unfortunately for Kenilworth, Rugby took a point at Leamington, placing them out of reach of Kenilworth and sealing Kenilworth’s relegation.

The Second Team took one valuable point at Warwick Tennis Club leaving them in fourth position in the Second Division with one match to go. Kenilworth found Warwick’s courts hard going and Linda Clements and Jacquie Roe were unable to take a set. Kay Gebbels and Caroline Rhodes lost a close match to first pair Pat Drummond and Claire Pomfret 6-7, 4-6, but won a long battle against Margaret Simcox and Sara Taylor 3-6, 6-2, 1-0.

With many of their usual squad injured or away, the Fourth team managed just one point from Berkswell Seconds. Scratch pairing Helen Hunter and Juliet Howard took a while to get used to each other’s game, losing to Sally Webber and Hilary Brattle 2-6, 2-6. They gained confidence for the second rubber, beating Sarah Kirk and Jo Brattle 7-5, 6-4. Sarah Sheldrick and Paddy Deeley, however, found the opposition too strong, losing both in straight sets.

Tennis couple's excellent run (27th July 2011)

Belinda Simmons and Carolyn Lindsay had an excellent run in the recent Snitterfield Ladies Tennis Open Championship. It was organised as a round robin of 2 groups so they had 4 matches (best of 7 games) against each pair.

They won their group (losing only to one couple 3-4) and then won the semi final. They just lost 4-6 in the final to a pair from Snitterfield. Carolyn commented that this was "a great shame as it was a lovely big trophy up for grabs."

But she added; "Everyone was very friendly and the food was excellent, so I can recommend it for next year."

Tennis Ladies keep promotion hopes alive (24th July 2011)

In the Coventry and District Ladies Lawn Tennis League, Kenilworth First team snatched one point from a very strong Leamington side to keep alive their hopes of First Division survival. Having lost to Julie Griffiths and Lianne Supperstone, Melanie Jennings and Kate Perkins had to play their best tennis to beat mother and daughter pairing Sara and Lucie Butler 5-7, 6-3, 1-0. Rosie Fuller and Sarah Money fought hard, but found the opposition too powerful.

In the Second Division, Kenilworth Second Team were placed sixth going into their crucial match against Rugby seconds, who were two points below them. Kay Gebbels and Caroline Rhodes played steady tennis, in spite of a couple of rain breaks, to beat Debbie Low and Debbie Smith 6-2, 6-2. Linda Clements and Annalise Thornhill were full of confidence after their success the week before and convincingly beat Cat Benoist and Lisa Webb 6-1, 6-2.

The Rugby couples settled down in the second rubbers and both Kenilworth pairs had more of a struggle, taking their first sets on a tie-break and winning both rubbers by identical scores 7-6, 6-3. The maximum four points gave Kenilworth a six point cushion over Rugby with just two matches left in the season.

The Third Team continued their good run with three points at Beechwood, making them strong promotion contenders. Helen Cochrane, playing up from the Fourth Team, had a superb game with Carolyn Lindsay, in spite of a knee injury.They beat first pair Angela Prior and Beam 6-1, 6-2 whilst Gill Cure and Jacquie Roe came back from a disastrous first set drubbing to beat Jenny Brown and Penny Nunn 0-6, 7-5, 1-0.

Tired after the first rubber, Cure and Roe lost to Prior and Beam 6-7, 1-6, but Cochrane and Lindsay were convincing against Brown and Nunn, winning 6-1, 6-2.

Away against Caludon Castle, Helen Cochrane and Helen Hunter somewhat lost concentration when one set up against Fiona Bowley and Sue Garner and eventually lost 6-2, 0-6, 0-1.

Meanwhile, in the Kenilworth Fourth Team match, Belinda Simmons and Sarah Sheldrick lost a championship tie-break to Anne High and Denise Barlow 3-6, 6-3, 0-1. Simmons and Sheldrick lost to Bowley and Garner 3-6, 0-6 and Cochrane and Hunter salvaged one point for Kenilworth with a 6-3, 6-2 win against High and Barlow.

Croquet Club in tight match (24th July 2011)

Kenilworth Croquet Club has just hosted Himley Club for the West Midlands Federation Golf Croquet league match in what turned out to be a very tight match.

At the end of the singles round the Kenilworth team of Nigel Haslam, Philip Wood, Derek Fairburn and Peter Kristunas were all square at eight games each. Outstanding performances were Fairburn beating the Himley number one player by 7 hoops to 2, and Kristunas, in his first outing for Kenilworth, beating their number two player by just one hoop.

The match then rested on the doubles results. The Kenilworth top pair of Haslam and Wood easily won by 7 hoops to 2. The number two pair of Fairburn and Kristunas had a very close game, and at six all the result depended on the last hoop, which Himley won, to tie the match overall.

During the week, the July Advanced Association Croquet tournament was held over two days with players from West Midlands clubs. Mike Hills from Northampton won the trophy on four wins. Cliff Daniel came second and Adrian Morris third, both from the Kenilworth club and both on three wins.

Ladies Second team in good form (18th July 2011)

In the Coventry and District Ladies Lawn Tennis League, Kenilworth Second team were on good form against Second Division leaders David Lloyd.

Kay Gebbels and Caroline Rhodes came back from a set down to beat Rachel Pickering and Sarah Feghhi 4-6, 6-3, 1-0.

Gebbels and Rhodes also won their second rubber 2-6, 6-3, 1-0, after losing the first set to Kathy Griffiths and Helen McHugh, and reaching 3-3 in the second set.

Linda Clements and Annalise Thornhill raced away with their first set against Griffiths and Mchugh, but the opposition found their feet and took the second. Clements and Thornhill did brilliantly to come back and take the Championship tie-break winning 6-1, 5-7, 1-0. They however lost to Pickering and Feghhi 3-6, 3-6.

The valuable three points takes Kenilworth two points clear of the relegation zone above Rugby 2 and David Lloyd 2.

The news was not so good for Kenilworth Firsts who lost 0-4 to Warwick Boat Club 1. Melanie Jennings and Kate Perkins nearly snatched a point from Jenny Waggott and Kate Young, but lost in the Championship tie-break. This leaves the Firsts in seventh position and 5 points adrift of rivals Rugby.

In a top of Division Three match, Kenilworth Thirds beat Berkswell Seconds 3-1. First pair Patsy Fuller and Carolyn Lindsay were too strong for both Berkswell pairs. They beat Sally Webber and Hilary Rattle 6-3,6-3 and then defeated Emma Thomas and Emma Lycett 6-2, 6-1. Gill Cure and Jacquie Roe beat Thomas and Lycett 6-3, 6-1 but lost to Webber and Rattle 5-7, 2-6.

Kenilworth Fourth team found Beechwood Thirds too strong and lost 1-3. But Belinda Simmons and Helen Cochrane did well to salvage one point with a championship tie-break win against Penny Nunn and Angela Prior.

Mixed results for Kenilworth Croquet (17th July 2011)

The Croquet Club is having a busy season, with mixed results.

The team have just travelled to Stourbridge for their West Midlands Association League match. This is always a difficult encounter for visiting teams, with somewhat uneven lawns usually giving the home team a slight advantage.

On this occasion, however, the Kenilworth team of Cliff Daniel, John Handy and Philip Wood were up to the challenge. Daniel won both his games by a narrow margin. Handy lost by one hoop in the morning, but recovered to win easily in the afternoon and Wood won both his games by 12 and 13 hoops giving Kenilworth a decisive 5 games to 1 victory.

This was followed by a home league match against Himley. In the morning, John Handy and Ray Clipson were beaten in the doubles by 7 hoops and Cliff Daniel, after being in control for most of the match, was narrowly beaten by a late break by his opponent.

The three afternoon singles had to be won by Kenilworth. Daniel won his match decisively with an enormous break of 11 hoops and Handy also won a close encounter by a single hoop. Clipson’s opponent, however, proved too good on the day giving a narrow victory to Himley by 3 games to 2.

Click here for all match reports.

Tennis Ladies claim needed points (11th July 2011)

In the Coventry and District Ladies Lawn Tennis League, both Kenilworth First and Second teams took two much needed points last week. The Firsts travelled to Esporta where Melanie Jennings and Kate Perkins were on top form beating Ciara Haggerty and Sarah Tolliday 7-5, 6-4. They went on to take second couple Maria Pandya and Rachel O’Reilly by storm in a superb first set, and, although the second set was closer, the 6-0, 6-4 score was convincing.

On the night, however, Kenilworth’s second couple Rosie Fuller and Kay Tomalin were not quite strong enough to threaten the Esporta pairs.

At Kenilworth for the Second team, Kay Gebbels and Caroline Rhodes beat Suzanne Roberts and Karen Mullen 7-5, 6-3 and then went on to defeat Gianna Boero & Keiko Martin 6-3, 6-2. Linda Clements and Sarah Money fought hard, but were unlucky to lose two agonisingly close matches on Championship tie-breaks.

Squash news (6th July 2011)

Sarah-Jane Perry faced Kenilworth Club-mate Chloe Pearson in the first round of the recent "Le Sport Open" squash championship, held at Rhys on Sea, Wales. Chloe played very well, pushing her experienced opponent hard, but Sarah-Jane eventually won 11-8, 11-6, 11-7 to set up a quarter-final tie against Rachel Willmott.

There, Sarah-Jane had to come from behind twice to shade an hour long epic 7-11, 11-7, 6-11, 11-5, 12-10.

The semi-final drew Sarah-Jane against Lauren Briggs, former World number 18. Sarah-Jane started slowly and lost the first game, but deservedly took the second. Lauren won the next 2 close games, however, to take the match 11-5, 10-12, 11-9, 11-8, and went on to beat the top seed in the final.

Sarah-Jane has just finished her time at Warwick University career by gaining a 2.1 Honours Degree in Engineering and Business, and was again crowned University Sportswoman of the Year. She now plays squash full-time, and hopes to break into the World top 30.

Tennis Ladies' inter-Club upset (4th July 2011)

In the Coventry and District Ladies Lawn Tennis League, Kenilworth Ladies' Fourth team have achieved a memorable success.

Most club teams dislike playing another of their teams in the same Division. The higher ranked team feel they should win and the lower ranked team have nothing to lose. Kenilworth Thirds can vouch for this, as they were beaten for the first time this season by their own Fourth team. Helen Cochrane and Helen Hunter were on fine form for the Fourths, beating Gill Cure and Carolyn Lindsay 6-4, 6-1 and Helen Allen and Clare Green 6-1, 6-3. Belinda Simmons and Sarah Sheldrick also beat Allen and Green 6-2, 6-2 but lost to Cure and Lindsay 2-6, 4-6 to give the Thirds a consolation point.

It was bad news for the First and Second teams, as both failed to take a point. The Firsts were at home to Stratford and with Natasha Hillyer teamed up with Eileen Robinson for Stratford. Not even Melanie Jennings and Kate Perkins could make any impact, going down 1-6, 3-6. Jennings and Perkins had a closer game against Caroline Maisey and Helen Mayers but lost 2-6, 3-6 being unable to clinch the crucial game points. Linda Clements and Sarah Money for Kenilworth fought hard, but the opposition were just too strong.

Playing at Warwick Boat Club against their Second team, Kay Gebbels and Caroline Rhodes had a difficult first rubber, as they failed to take a game from new member Natalie Vioules and Cindy Carslake and did little better against the seconds losing 1-6, 2-6. Annalise Thornhill and Kay Tomalin were on much better form and were unlucky to lose two Championship tie breaks after taking the first set in both their rubbers.

A great week for Kenilworth Tennis Ladies (26th June 2011)

In the Coventry and District Ladies Lawn Tennis League, Kenilworth ladies' first team gained a valuable two points at Beechwood as Melanie Jennings and Kate Perkins played brilliantly to defeat Soumeya Anane and Suzanne Roberts 7-6, 5-7, 1-0. They then overcame Becky McGrath & Monika Telkedzhieva in straight sets 6-2, 6-4. Rosie Fuller and Clare Green played well but were not quite strong enough to take a set off the opposition.

The second team were delighted with four points against Knowle and Dorridge. Kay Gebbels and Caroline Rhodes were slow to get going and needed a championship tie-break to beat Diana Best and Jean Badnam 4-6, 6-1, 1-0. Likewise, Sarah Money and Annalise Thornhill lost the first set to Jane James and Mandy Denham, but turned it around to win 4-6, 6-3, 1-0. In the reverse matches both Kenilworth pairs won in two sets.

The third team were less lucky with the weather and had to return mid week to complete their match at Hampton in Arden, beating their second team 3-1 and keeping their unbeaten record.

The fourth team also took three points from Coventry and North Warwicks. Both first rubbers went in straight sets to Kenilworth as Helen Cochrane paired with Chris Coe and Belinda Simmons with Sarah Sheldrick. The C & NW pairs found their feet in the reverse rubber and Cochrane and Coe went down 3-6, 4-6 to Ann Cartwright and Emma Young whilst Simmons and Sheldrick captured a championship tie-break from Mary Bibb and Janet Critchley.

Close result in the "other" Davis Cup (27th June 2011)

The "other" Davis Cup produced a very close result at Kenilworth Tennis, Squash and Croquet Club on Sunday 26 June. This event is kindly sponsored each year by Mrs Janet Davis in memory of her late husband, David, who was a keen tennis player and very popular Club member.

Six Mixed Doubles teams entered, and each team played 5 sets of 5 games against the other teams. The Great Britain team of Sarah Sheldrick, Chris Hess, Lucy Hughes and Alistair Kirkwood just won by a narrow margin over Belgium.

Mrs Davis provided the Cup, winners medals and a very good tea. The event was another example of the friendly spirit which pervades the whole Club in tennis, squash, racquetball and croquet.

Photos shows presentation with (left to right) Sarah Sheldrick, Chris Hess, Janet Davis, Lucy Hughes, Alistair Kirkwood.

Tom achieves his Marathon aim (20th June 2011)

Tom Holmes has equalled the Marathon match at Wimbledon last year (11 hours 6 minutes) between John Isner and Nicolas Mahut, by continuous play throughout Saturday 25 June at Crackley Lane.

This enormous effort was in memory of the late James Cooper, a former Coach at the Club. A considerable sum was raised for charity and James’ parents, Sandy and Stan, came to express their gratitude.

Tom played different members of the Club, ranging from juniors to First Team players, changing every half-hour.

Thanks to Mrs Sue Cable for the photo.

Click here for Tom's report on the event (PDF 116k)

Click here for photo gallery.

Clipson wins on Golden Hoop (20th June 2011)

Kenilworth Croquet Club held their June Handicap Tournament last week with eight players competing over two days. The weather was kind but with the occasional outing for the water-proofs!

There were many close games in the early round but the tightest was a match where Ray Clipson beat Cliff Daniel by one hoop. This was enough to put Clipson into the final and to relegate Daniel to third place following a play off against John Handy.

Joining Clipson in the final was Philip Wood and this proved to be another nail-biter. At full time the score was all square at 17 hoops each. The match then went onto Golden Hoop. Clipson’s ball failed to run giving Wood an opportunity to hit in and take the game. Wood missed by millimetres giving Clipson an easy hoop and the trophy.

Photo shows Ray clipson (left) accepting the trophy from Club Chairman Adrian Morris.

Tennis finals (20th June 2011)

Four Club Championships Finals were contested at Kenilworth Tennis Club on Saturday 18th June.

Tom Holmes and Philippa Middup, in her first Final at the Club, convincingly won the Handicap Mixed Doubles final 6-1, 6- 3 against Stan Barker and Helen Allen, just in time to avoid torrential rain. Tom and Philippa had to concede a point every game by starting at minus15, but Tom's athletic power game and Philippa’s good all round play along with excellent serving led them to a comfortable victory. The score belies a good fight by Stan and Helen in a final where a lot of games were close.

The Ladies Doubles Handicap final produced a closely fought match between Caroline Rhodes/Clare Green and Sarah Sheldrick/Belinda Simmons.

Caroline and Clare stormed into an early lead to win the first 6-2 as Sarah and Belinda took a little while to get into their stride against their more experienced opponents. However the second set was much more closely contested as Sarah and Belinda spotted a chink in their opponents armour and by dint of some really excellent play were 4-3 up and going really well. The eighth game however proved crucial and a couple of unlucky shots cost them the game enabling Caroline and Clare to level the score. Sarah and Belnda continued to fight valiantly but in the end Caroline and Clare took the set 6-4 to clinch the match.

The Ladies' Singles Final was a close-fought affair between Sarah-Jane Perry and Melanie Jennings with the latter winning 7-2, 6-2. Sarah-Jane, an international squash player, got off to a great start in both sets with an often over powering serve, but Melanie's consistency won through. This was the 19th time Melanie had won the Singles title since 1986. She is waitng for the crown to be taken from her at some point in the near future but hopes to get no.20 next year!

Friendship was put aside when Tom Holmes and Charlie Griffin faced off in the Men’s Open Singles final. A prodigious display of power serving and strong top spin baseline rallies made for an exciting and hard fought match where once more the games were closer than final score. Tom won the first set 6-1 and a much closer second set 6-3 for his second trophy of the day. Both players sported tribute shirts to their former colleague and friend, James Cooper, displaying the charity set up in his name - Always a Chance. Tom dedicated his wins to James, in thanks for the inspiration he got from him as a Junior starting out at Kenilworth.

Photo shows Helen Allen/ Stan Barker and Tom Holmes/ Phillippa Middup.

Click here for photo gallery.

Kenilworth Tennis Ladies doing well (19th June 2011)

In the Coventry and District Ladies Lawn Tennis League, Kenilworth Second team collected their first win of the season against David Lloyd Solihull 2.

Kay Gebbels and Caroline Rhodes were on good form, beating Joyce Dale and Wendy Supperstone 6-4, 7-5, whilst new pairing Linda Clements and Annalise Thornhill produced a nail-biting 13-11 Championship tie break win against Flora Blackett and Jo Isaacs.

Gebbels and Rhodes found Blackett and Isaacs hard competition, but came through 6-4, 6-3 whilst Clements and Thornhill were on the losing end of another Championship tie-break against Dale and Supperstone. Kenilworth’s valuable three points lifted them off the bottom of the table above their opponents.

The First team struggled against Rugby Firsts. With Nicola Horobin struggling with an injury, she and Kate Perkins lost both their rubbers. Clare Green, promoted from the Third team, did well, playing with Rosie Fuller to beat second couple Rachael Baker and Charlotte Brayson but lost to first couple Andrea Randle and Sharon Jones.

The Third team continued their unbeaten run with another 3-1 win against Coventry and North Warwicks firsts. First pair Patsy Fuller and Carolyn Lindsay took both their rubbers. Gill Cure and Clare Green, playing her second match of the week, beat the second pairing, but lost a long hard struggle to the first pairing. Their three points were enough to place them on top of Division 4 at the half way stage.

Good news also for the Fourths as they took three points at bottom of the table Hampton in Arden. Helen Cochrane and Mel Twigger had two straight sets wins. Paddy Deeley and Belinda Simmons beat the second couple but lost to the firsts.

Junior Squash Championships (13th June 2011)

Report from the Club's 2011 junior squash championships.

Click here to download (PDF 101k)

Click here to go to photo gallery.

Tennis Ladies start the recovery (23rd May 2011)

In the Coventry and District Ladies Lawn Tennis League, Kenilworth ladies' first team have just picked up their first rubbers of the season in a hard-fought encounter with Warwick Boat Club firsts.

After three 0-4 defeats, the squad desperately needed some points to start a climb out of the relegation zone in the top Division of the League.

Playing for the first time together this season, Kate Perkins and Melanie Jennings were on good form as they squeezed wins from both their matches, against Susie Rowe/Kate Young and Jenny Waggott/Arancha Jimenez.

Second pair Rosie Fuller and Nicola Horobin lost to Waggott and Jimenez and after winning the first set against Rowe and Young were locked in a tight second set when the floodlights had to go out. The match is due to be completed on Thursday this week. (26th).

The Seconds too improved, collecting two points from a draw with David Lloyd Firsts. The dry, warm and still conditions suited Kay Gebbels and Caroline Rhodes as they beat both first pairings, Kathy Griffiths and Jane Hatter and seconds, Jo Isaacs and Sharon Smitten, in two sets. Linda Clements and Patsy Fuller lost to Isaacs and Smitten, and were unlucky to lose a nail-biting championship tie-break to Griffiths and Hatter.

Carolyn Lindsay returned after foot surgery to pair up with Patsy Fuller. to help the thirds continue their unbroken start to the season at Berkswell against their second team. Neither Kenilworth couple were able to find a way to overcome a strong Berkswell first couple, but both were successful against the seconds to gain two valuable points.

The fourths, also playing in the Fourth division, played excellent tennis but lost 1-3 to Beechwood thirds. Helen Cochrane and Helen Hunter got the match off to a flying start with a 6-2, 7-5 victory over Evans and Nunn but Chris Coe and Belinda Simmons lost a championship tie-break to Wooding and Prior.

In the reverse doubles, Coe and Simmons rallied superbly to draw level from 0-5 down in the first set but lost the set on a tie-break and then ran out of steam to lose 6-7, 2-6. Cochrane and Hunter came so close but just lost a championship tie-break 13-15.

Midlands Golf Croquet Championships at Kenilworth (17th May 2011)

As part of the Kenilworth Festival, some of the top Golf Croquet players in the Midlands arrived this week at the Kenilworth Croquet Club to compete for the Festival Trophy.

Also visiting the club was the Chairman of the Croquet Association, Barry Keen who complimented the club on its facilities, the friendly ambience and the state of the lawns.

Six clubs from all over the Midlands competed with each playing a doubles match against the other five.

Kenilworth, represented by Adrian Morris and Derek Fairburn finished fourth with victories over Woodhall Spa from Lincolnshire and a team form Himley Hall near Dudley. The Derbyshire team of Bakewell were third.

Stuart Smith and John Guy, the Broadwas team from Worcestershire, took the trophy with five wins. The Edgbaston team of Nick Hyne and Paddy Heath were second.

Click here for photo gallery of the event.

Tennis Ladies in tough battles (17th May 2011)

In the Coventry and District Ladies Lawn Tennis League, the Third Team continued to fly the flag for Kenilworth Ladies with a 3-1 win against Caludon Castle.

First couple Gill Cure and Patsy Fuller came from behind in a nail-biting championship tie-break thriller to beat Caludon first pairing Sue Garner and Fiona Bowley 6-2, 3-6, 1-0 (11-9). Second couple Helen Allen and Jacquie Roe also went down to the line, clinching their first rubber 2-6, 6-1, 1-0 (10-8) against Anne High and Denise Barlow. Roe and Allen lost to the first pairing, but Cure and Fuller had an easy 6-0, 6-1 win against the second pairing to claim three points for Kenilworth, keeping them on top of the Division.

Kenilworth Firsts have yet to take a point although Rosie Fuller and Kate Perkins played excellent tennis against last year’s league champions Esporta 1 as did Annalise Thornhill and Sarah Money.

The Seconds slipped to another 3-1 defeat at Beechwood where Nicola Horobin and Caroline Rhodes picked up a point against the second pair, Gianna Boero and Yu Hirokohirakawa. Both they and Kay Tomalin and Annalise Thornhill lost championship tie-breaks to first couple Suzanne Roberts and Julie Stynes.

Ladies Captain, Dr Caroline Rhodes, commented; "our third team is doing well. Our first and second teams are struggling at present, but we are determined to improve!"

Ladies teams battle for supremacy (8th May 2011)

In the Coventry and District Ladies Lawn Tennis League, Kenilworth Fourth team played hosts to their own Third team, in what proved to be a titanic battle with three championship tie-breaks and superb tennis throughout.

Helen Cochrane and Helen Hunter gave the Fourths the lead in the only two-set match, beating Gill Cure and Jacquie Roe 7-6, 6-1. Chris Coe and Belinda Simmons fought valiantly, but Helen Allen and Clare Green just took the match with a championship tie-break, 6-7, 6-2, 1-0, to level the match for the Thirds.

In the reverse matches, Cochrane and Hunter triumphed again beating Allen and Green 6-4, 4-6, 1-0 and Cure and Roe did their bit for the thirds, defeating Coe and Simmons 6-7, 6-1, 1-0 to produce an honourable 2-2 draw.

The Firsts and Seconds had the misfortune to play on Bank Holiday Monday in near gale force winds. At some points it was really a matter of who could get the ball into the court! The Firsts lost 0-4 as Kay Tomalin and Annalise Thornhill, on her debut for Kenilworth, found the opposition too powerful. Not even Melanie Jennings and Rosie Fuller could take a rubber from a very strong Stratford side, although they did take Caroline Maisey and Helen Mayers to a championship tiebreak.

The Seconds fared a little better, with Kay Gebbels and Caroline Rhodes taking one rubber from Warwick Boat Club Second team’s second couple Anna Potts and Holly Thompson. They lost a tight championship tiebreak to old rivals Jackie Sadler and Tracy Wells and with Linda Clements paired up with Jacquie Roe not quite able to take a set off either Boat Club couple, the Seconds had another 1-3 loss.

Mixed fortunes for Tennis Ladies as season starts (2nd May 2011)

Relegated to the Fourth Division of the Coventry and District Ladies Lawn Tennis League last year, Kenilworth Thirds gave notice of their hopes of bouncing back up as they defeated Hampton in Arden Second team 4-0.

First couple Linda Clements and Patsy Fuller had two straight sets victories. Second couple Clare Green and Jacquie Roe clinched a championship tie break against Hampton’s seconds Chris Durbin and Jane Imwal, 6-4, 2-6, 1-0 (10-5). With the bit between their teeth, they had an even longer tussle against the first pairing, Sophie Morris and Natalie Hardy, again just edging through with a championship tie-break, 6-7, 7-5, 1-0 (10-8).

Without Captain Melanie Jennings, Kenilworth First team suffered a 4-0 defeat at Beechwood. With Sarah Money and Kate Perkins losing a championship tie-break and Nicola Horobin and Kay Tomalin losing a second set tie break, the match was closer than it sounds but both couples found the power of Soumeya Anane and Sandra Jepson too much.

The Seconds managed one point at Knowle and Dorridge, when Kay Gebbels and Caroline Rhodes beat Diana Best and Hilary Bramley. Having fought back from a 6-0 loss in the first set, Linda Clements and Gill Cure were unlucky to lose the championship tie break to Best and Bramley. Neither couple managed a set against a very strong second couple with Jill Munden playing well with an on form Angela Cross.

The Fourths travelled to Coventry and North Warwicks but, with no lights, only completed two rubbers. After very close tennis and two championship tie-breaks, the score is level at 1-1.

Tennis players overcome gusting wind (2nd May 2011)

Some keen tennis players overcame gusting wind in the second American Tennis Tournament of the season.

The entry was relatively low, no doubt because of the unusual double Bank Holiday weekend. Or perhaps everyone was still recovering from the sheer splendour of the magnificent Royal Wedding!

In a mixed-doubles American Tournament, players change partners after every match, which introduces an element of automatic handicapping.

Frank Devine and Steve Proctor tied equal first among the men, while Anne Holmes finished just ahead of Sheila Skinner in the Ladies Section. Everyone thought it an enjoyable day.

Photo shows Sarah Sheldrick playing an effective shot, despite the strong winds.

Squash and Racketball Handicap Finals (26th April 2011)

Congratulations to the finalists of the senior squash club championships and racketball handicap.

Men's Squash Champion	Guy Pearson
Runner Up	Keith Watts
Ladies Squash Champion	Sarah-Jane Perry
Runner Up	Dawn Ashford
Men's Squash Plate Winner	Paul Blake
Men's Squash Plate Runner Up	David Green
Jackson Drop Shot Winner	David Gilkes
Jackson Drop Shot Runner Up	Roger More
Racketball Handicap Winner	David Gilkes
Racketball Handicap Runner Up	Graham Greensall
Racketball Handicap Plate Winner	Joe Faulkner
Racketball Handicap Plate Runner Up	Simon Lilley

Thanks to all those who entered and could the members who still owe their entry stamps please place their stamp on the list left on the notice board by court two.

I would like to give a special "thank you" to Tom Jones. Tom was just about to enjoy a drink in the bar and asked to mark the racketball handicap plate final which went on for over an hour and a half.

Cheers Tom.

Roger More

Sarah-Jane in National Squash Final (19th April 2011)

Sarah-Jane Perry has reached the final of the recent British National Under 23 Squash Final held at Hunts County Squash Club.

Her Quarter-Final encounter with fellow former British Under 19 Champion Victoria Bell proved to be the match of the tournament. Bell took the first game, but then Perry won a truly Marathon second game 21-19. Bell shaded the third, that included some thunderous drives, but then Perry easily took the fourth to level the match at 2 all. The fifth game was again very tight, with Perry just winning out 6-11, 21-19, 10-12, 11-3, 11-9 in 63 minutes.

The Semi-Final pitched Sarah-Jane against Carrie Ramsey, a battle of 2 former European Junior Champions. Ramsey just won the first game, but then Perry started to pick off winners at will, and soon won 9-11, 11-4, 11-4, 11-6.

The Final, against another former British Under 19 Champion, and current World Number 36, Victoria Lust, proved to be too strong a challenge for Sarah-Jane, despite her putting up determined resistance, with Lust taking the title 11-9, 11-4, 11-6.

Kenilworth Club-mate Chris Fuller had good wins over Tristan Eysele (12-10, 11-3, 11-7) and Tom Ford (11-7, 11-5, 11-9) but then disappointingly had to withdraw due to illness.

Kenilworth 8U Mini-Red Tennis Success (18th April 2011)

Following Kenilworth A's success in the finals of the 8U Mini Red Esporta (Sept-Dec 2010) Tournament, Kenilworth A recorded a second successive victory in the 8U Mini Red Esporta (Jan-Mar 2011) Tournament. This time 34 teams across East and South Warwickshire entered the event, with both Kenilworth A and B teams finishing undefeated at the top of their respective groups. Six teams qualified for the finals which took place on the 10th April at Esporta Warwickshire Racket Centre, with Kenilworth A overcoming Shipston A and Stratford A to reach the finals.

In the final Kenilworth A, comprising Grace Gamble, Lucy Gribben, Connor Beckinsale, and Matthew Davies, defeated Beechwood 6-4 in a closely contested match. Kenilworth A will now go on to play in the County Finals on the 15th May, where they hope to go one better than last year and win the County Finals.

Photo shows Kenilworth A team

Wimbledon ticket draw (21st March 2011)

This year we are to hold the Wimbledon ticket draw earlier than usual. This is because the L.T.A. requires us to return a list of successful members to them by early May. There is a notice at the club to this effect, the draw sheets will go up very soon.

As we are about to start tennis renewals it may be a good time to remind members that to enter the draw one must be a fully paid up tennis member 2011/2012 plus a member of B.T.M. as we will require a B.T.M. Number.

The draw will take place in April, date to be confirmed.

More progress discussed at Club (14th March 2011)

The Club has just held a packed and encouraging AGM, with each Section reporting real achievements.

The Dan Riley Trophy for outstanding work for the Club, over many years, was awarded to Dennis Cooley.

The financial situation is very stable, thanks not least to the excellent work of Roy Ablewhite, who is stepping down after years of careful attention to the Club’s books.

Squash, Racketball, Tennis and Croquet are all in good fettle, with the Ladies Veterans Tennis team winning every match in the Winter season; and outstanding young players like Sarah-Jane Perry, Tom Holmes and Chloe and Guy Pearson all achieving success in major outside tournaments.

The coaching for beginners in both Tennis by James Roe, and Squash/ Racquetball by Steve Townsend, and their respective teams, has been consistently outstanding, and the high quality Croquet lawns have been regularly used by very welcome outside groups.

The main item was the idea of a sixth Squash court, perhaps glass-backed, being built, both to alleviate possible peak-time congestion and to attract very high-level tournaments. This is a complex and important issue for the future of the Club. There was therefore a detailed discussion on the various technical, financial and planning aspects, including the chances of help from England Squash and Racketball, the national body.

David Burton, the Club President, thanked members for their suggestions, and it was unanimously agreed that the Committee would carry on its present investigative work, with a view to reporting to a future General Meeting when a final decision was needed.

Tennis ladies take up tenpin bowling! (11th March 2011)

Twelve tennis ladies went bowling!

Click here for photo gallery.

Chloe number one in the country (8th March 2011)

Chloe Pearson, the 16 year old Kenilworth squash player, has achieved Number 0ne ranking in the country following a sound set of results in 2011. Her latest achievement saw her finish as runner up for an agonising third time in the National Championships.

Chloe started well in the tournament with a comfortable 3-0 win over Emily Carr from Oxfordshire. She then had to dig deep against 6th ranked Anna Kimberley from Essex. After taking a comfortable 2-0 lead, she was dragged back in to a battle which she overcame well in the fifth set winning 11-6. The semi-final saw her against arch rival number three-ranked Brogan Lane from Hertfordshire. Her determination to win shone through as she won in three easy games to set up a final with fellow England team mate Victoria Temple-Murray from Devon.

These two have played against each other for many years and the games have always been very competitive. This time, as in previous meetings, Chloe took the lead but in four very tight games Victoria showed more composure when under pressure to edge a well deserved victory.

Chloe has had a good season this year being unbeaten for Kenilworth Ladies team and breaking in to the Mens first team on a number of occasions. Her next tournament is when she leads Warwickshire under 17’s in the Inter-County National Finals in Surrey later this month. She also represents Warwickshire Senior Ladies team.

Sarah-Jane is a multi-talent (20th February 2011)

Sarah-Jane Perry entered the last 16 main draw of the British Open Squash Championships for the first time without needing to qualify, but was drawn against World number 2 and top seed Jenny Duncalf (Sarah-Jane is World ranked 175). Sarah-Jane was not overawed by her vastly more experienced opponent, and shocked the audience at Manchester’s National Squash Centre by deservedly winning the first game. Jenny easily won the second, but Sarah-Jane rallied in the third, and had several game points before Jenny edged that game and took the next to win 8-11, 11-4, 12-10, 11-4 (3-1).

5th seed Emma Beddoes from Leamington Spa met determined opposition from 16 year-old Emily Whitlock. Emily won a tense first game, but Emma won the next three games to score a 13-15, 11-5, 11-9, 11-6 (3-1) victory and set up a quarter-final against Jenny – Jenny won 11-5, 11-7, 11-4 (3-0).

Sarah-Jane recently retained her Warwickshire County Squash title, beating Kerry Pottinger & Lucy Pallett (both 3-0) and Vicky Hynes (3-1). Sarah-Jane was beaten in the final of the English Racketlon Championships for the second successive year by over 40’s England Tennis International Isabelle Tyrrell. Racketlon is a popular European sport in which you play your opponent at table tennis, badminton, squash and tennis.

Tyrrell took an early lead in the table tennis 21-5 but then Perry convincingly won the badminton 21-11 and the squash 21-4.

This left Sarah-Jane needing to score 10 in the challenging final round of tennis, but Isabelle won through 21-7 (57-54) to secure the English Open title.

Tennis Club's Mini Red tennis team (20th February 2011)

After their success in winning the 2010/2011 Winter League competed in the Mini Tennis Red County Finals at David Lloyd Solihull on 12th Feb 2011.

Kenilworth A, comprising of Matthew Davies, Connor Beckinsale, Niamh Evans and Grace Gamble competed against teams from Edgbaston Priory and Tanworth in Arden.

Some fabulous, tough, close fort matches many with scores of 10-9 saw Kenilworth A achieve runners up spot in the County just behind Edgbaston Priory.

The Kenilworth Mini Red Team is currently competing in the 2011 Mini Red Winter League at Esporta Coventry. In total, there are seven matches to be played against teams from Leamington, Warwick, Coventry, Shipston, Alcester and Stratford.

Currently, the team of Leon Wallis, Thomas McGraw, Matthew Davies, Niamh Evans, Lucy Gribben, Grace Gamble, Christian Roberts, Sophie Foster, Sophie Stratton and Connor Beckinsale have had a great start winning three out of the three matches played so far. A great start for Kenilworth.

Fundraising Day (2nd February 2011)

Click here for Steve Townsend's full report on Fundraising Day held on Saturday 29th January. (PDF 38k)

In a moment of weakness, Steve agreed to run a Half Marathon on a Squash Court!

We also have an auction in aid of the Fundraising day causes.

We have a Prince Speedport Black Racket donated by Prince (cheapest available price to buy £90). Also Prince Airo Propel (cheapest available price to buy £43).

If you'd like to bid for either of these fabulous rackets, which would get you a racket and also support the charities then please put your bid in a sealed envelope and hand into the bar fao Steve T, with your name, which racket and bid inside.

Bids opened at 2:00pm on Saturday 12th February.

Photo shows Steve collapsing at the end of his half-marathon!

There is still time to sponsor Steve. Click here for his fundraising page.

Tennis youngsters dominate County Finals (11th January 2011)

Kenilworth Tennis Club’s Mini Red Teams, for players 8 years old and under, have had tremendous success in the Warwickshire County finals just played.

Over 25 teams entered the competition overall, with Kenilworth A team beating Stratford in one semi-final, and Kenilworth B beating Shipston in the other. The A team then beat the B team in a thrilling all-Kenilworth final. The Mini Red Team captains, David Gamble and Martin Beckinsale, accompanied the teams and were delighted at the results.

Nine young people played for Kenilworth altogether, drawing on the expert coaching provided by Head Coach James Roe and his enthusiastic team. Encouragement of young people is a major feature at the Crackley Lane Club.

James has a real gift of inspiring beginners and said; "I congratulate all those who took part. Their enthusiasm is wonderful to see, and this is an even greater success than I expected. We are still in Winter, but I am already looking forward to another busy Summer of real achievement". Photo shows Both A and B teams.

Kenilworth Tennis Ladies in good form (3rd January 2011)

As the snow clears and tennis hopefully begins again, both Kenilworth Ladies teams hold middle of the table spots in their respective Divisions of the Stratford and District Winter Tennis League.

The “A” team managed to complete all of their pre-Christmas matches before the weather deteriorated and start the second half of the season on Sunday 9 January with a First Division home tie against Chipping Campden, hoping to improve on their 3-1 away defeat at the beginning of the winter season.

The “B” team still have an away match at Henley to complete, but with 8 points from four matches in the Third Division, are comfortably placed as they travel to Chipping Campden “B” a week later.

With five matches still to play, Kenilworth First team are at present top of the Warwickshire Winter Ladies Veterans League, leading by just one point. Beechwood and Solihull Arden follow very close behind, but Kenilworth have beaten both these clubs earlier in the season. The players are looking forward to some good matches to complete the season and hopefully consolidate their position.

The Second team are well placed in the Second Division, sitting halfway up a large group of twelve teams. Teams have been represented by a good cross section of Lady Veterans - over 40 players in all.

Chloe wins Sports Personality Award and gets England call up (29th November 2010)

16 year old Chloe Pearson has just won the Warwickshire Secondary Schools Female Sports Person of the Year award.

At a ceremony held at the Ricoh Arena, Chloe, a pupil at Castle Sixth Form, was presented with the award by former Olympic Athlete David Moorcroft.

She was up against strong competition, including a kick boxer and a footballer, but won out due to her success as the top Midlands squash player and member of the National squad. To cap a great start to the new season, she also gained selection for England to play in two Test matches against Scotland and Wales in early December.

Davis Cup played in lovely weather (12th October 2010)

The "Davis Cup" Mixed Doubles tournament has just been played in lovely weather at Kenilworth Tennis Club, combining with the Club Family Charity Day.

Mrs Janet Davis sponsors the event in memory of her late husband and former Club member, Mr David Davis. She provides prizes and a cup for the winners.

The Davis Cup is usually played in July but was postponed because of World Cup matches this year. Money raised by raffles, etc, during the Day is divided between Myton Hospice and the Teenage Cancer Trust.

Teams of four play in mixed pairings against other "countries". The organiser, Mrs Anne Holmes, chose the names for the teams using the countries from which the top four men and ladies in the contemporary world tennis rankings come.

The winners were Zena Avery, Daniel Cochrane, Andy Maguire and Lucy Hughes, playing as the USA. Runners Up were the Great Britain team, only one point behind. They were Tom Holmes, Connor Overton, Angie Haselock and Chloe Roe.

Anne said; "This year the teams were of a particularly good standard, so a good afternoon of tennis was enjoyed by all with brilliant weather as a bonus."

Croquet finals (11th October 2010)

The Kenilworth Croquet Club 2010 finals have been held, with players competing for no less than seven trophies.

The Golf Croquet Pindi Cup was an historical event in that Amanda Haslam was the first woman in the club’s history to compete in finals weekend. The event was even more memorable in that she was competing against her father Nigel! A competitive final ensued but the cup was won by dad Nigel Haslam.

The other Golf Final, the Kenilworth Cup was won by Adrian Morris who also won the Short Lawn Taylor cup.

The main Association Croquet Cups, the St George and the Secunderabad were both fought over by Peter Dennis and Cliff Daniel. Both matches were extremely close but honours were even with Cliff Daniel winning the St George and Peter Dennis winning the Secunderabad.

The Douglas trophy for higher handicappers was won by John Clark in a very tight match against newcomer Jamie Clark – no relation.

Ray Clipson had a victory over Alan Richardson in a closely contested game so became the winner of the Billl Browne 14point Trophy.

Earlier, the Castle Cup for Advanced Association Croquet had been won by John Leader who had beaten Henry Fellows, the winner of the previous four contests.

Click here for photo gallery.

Graham Greensall wins Warwickshire Racketball Championship (11th October 2010): Graham Greensall recently won the Over 60's Final and lost in semi-finals of the Over 55's at Edgbaston Priory, in the Warwickshire Racketball Championships.

Tony Russell Racketball Tournament (11th October 2010)

Saturday 9th October 2010 saw the 6th annual running of the Tony Russell racketball tournament.

The event was well supported with the first matches taking place at 5pm and the final finished at 8pm, a tournament requiring skill, agility, patience and stamina to overcome some very competitive handicaps.

With the initial two game leagues producing tight results leading to the quarter finals knockout stages. The final produced a youthful Martin Shanahan against the veteran Alan Pearson who produced an error free game to take the trophy.

The evening was completed with a short presentation and a Gill Pearson chilli and desserts. Thanks to all who supported the event.

R. Cooper.

Great news for Tennis Juniors (10th September 2010)

Kenilworth Tennis club had a record seven pairs reach the finals of the South Warwickshire Doubles Leagues, played at Warwick Boat Club on Sunday 7th September. Six pairs won their matches with the seventh pair beaten in their final by fellow club members.

U14 Boys A League – James Hennegan and Joseph Porter beat Tim Griew and Jeremy Simmons (also Kenilworth) 6-2, 6-3

U12 Boys A League – Dan Cochrane and Ethan Allies-Proctor beat Leamington 6-1, 6-2

U12 Girls A League – Nicola Jennings and Laura Wilkins beat Leamington 6-4, 6-4

U10 Girls A League – Mhari Tyler and Ella Slater beat Henley 6-1, 2-6, 6-0

U17 Boys B League - James Wilkins and George Marlow beat Snitterfield 6-4, 6-0

U10 Boys B League – Thomas Hennegan and Joel Scott beat Warwick Boat Club 6-2 6-4

All the pairs looked very professional in their matching shirts kindly sponsored by Tudor Physiotherapy, Warwickshire. The winners of A Leagues will go onto play winners of the North Warwickshire Leagues in October.

Click here for photo gallery.

First time player wins tennis tournament (5th September 2010)

In the American tennis tournament, Mick Hughes, playing in his first such tournament, won the Mens section, just ahead of Jeff Lyndsay and his wife Carolyn Lindsay, who was playing as a man because of a slight imbalance in the entries.

The Ladies Section was won, for the second time this season, by Sheila Skinner, just holding off Margaret Wynne-Evans and Alison Ducker.

Sheila has just become a grandmother 5 times in 3 years, and spends much of her time going to help with her "wonderful little people" in different parts of the country. With this and other commitments, she fits in tennis when she can, but always enjoys playing, winning many points with a strong forehand drive.

American tournaments are organised by Andy McGuire on a handicap basis, with partners changing after each short set, to give everyone an equal chance of success.

Another fine Croquet win (4th September 2010)

Kenilworth Croquet Club continued their successful Golf Croquet season with a fine win over Worcestershire team Broadwas last week.

Adrian Morris, Peter Dennis and Cliff Daniel were unbeaten in the singles and John Handy combined with Cliff Daniel to win their doubles match to give a decisive 15 games to 4 victory.

With just one game left this season against Staffordshire team, Himley, Kenilworth must now be favourites to win the West Midlands League.

Kenilworth hosts Croquet Association Area Final (10th August 2010)

Kenilworth Croquet Club has just had had the honour of hosting a Area Final of a National Croquet Association competition for the first time.

The Golf Croquet All England Handicap Tournament had competitors from as far away as Worcestershire, Watford, Bath & Bristol. The winners go forward to the National Final in September. On a superb Summer day, with the lawns looking in excellent condition despite the recent dry weather, the competitors gathered for a full day of seven matches each, several of which had very close results.

Stuart Smith of Broadwas came out on top with four wins. He will be joined at the final by fellow Broadwas member John Edwards and Jim Gregory from Nailsea. The latter achieved third place by winning his last match with two hoops in his last two shots.

Click here for photo gallery.

Dramatic season ends for Tennis Ladies (10th August 2010)

In the Coventry and District Ladies Lawn Tennis League, Kenilworth First team finished the season on a high as they beat visiting League Champions Esporta 3-1. Esporta had dropped only 6 points all season and won all their previous 13 matches. Melanie Jennings and Kate Perkins played their best tennis of the season to beat Ciara Haggarty and Rachel O’Reilly 7-6, 6-4 whilst Rosie Fuller and Sarah Money also rose to the occasion with a 6-3, 6-4 win against Hannah Pollard and Charlotte Ray. Haggarty and O’Reilly proved too strong for Fuller and Money but Jennings and Perkins continued in fine form to take a close two sets victory over Pollard and Ray.

The Second team match was an edgy affair. Playing at Leamington, they needed just one rubber to be mathematically certain of staying in the Second Division. They were 2-0 down at half time as Kay Gebbels and Caroline Rhodes lost a championship tie break 10-12 to Sue Perkins and Irene Paxton and Linda Clements and Jasmeet Kaler lost in straight sets to Diane Campton and Caroline Thompson. Once again the Kenilworth team rallied in the second half as Clements and Kaler moved up a gear and beat Paxton and Perkins 6-2, 6-3 Gebbels and Rhodes were able to relax and take their second championship tie-break of the night 10-6 levelling the score 2-2.

Kenilworth Thirds were away for their last match and met a strong Rugby Second team intent on securing promotion. Hannah Sharman, home from University for the Summer, played superbly with Patsy Fuller, taking the Rugby first couple to a Championship tie break, but could not quite take the last few points. All the other rubbers were straight sets wins for Rugby with Gill Cure and Jacquie Roe unable to penetrate the Rugby defences. The 4-0 win secured Rugby second place and promotion from the third division but unfortunately sent Kenilworth down to the Fourth Division.

Second in the Fifth Division and playing at home in their last match, Kenilworth Fourths were optimistic, but came across a strong West Warwicks side who were trying hard to avoid relegation. Helen Cochrane and Helen Hunter beat the West Warwicks first couple 7-6, 6-2 but then went on to lose 3-6, 3-6 to the seconds who fought hard for every point. Chris Coe and Sarah Sheldrick lost their first rubber 3-6, 4-6 and had another straight sets loss against the firsts pairing.

Ladies Captain Caroline Rhodes said; "This has been an often quite dramatic season, with every point counting right to the end. I am very sorry for the Third Team, who tried so hard, but so pleased for our other teams. Above all, we had a great team spirit and will come back with yet more enthusiasm next year."

Interesting Croquet (8th August 2010)

Having beaten local rivals Edgbaston at Association Croquet earlier in the season, Kenilworth completed the double at Golf Croquet in the West Midlands Federation League. Kenilworth started the underdogs against a very experienced Edgbaston, but thanks to some competitive and exciting croquet, they ended the singles session at eight games apiece. Peter Dennis won three of his four matches with two wins for Adrian Morris and Cliff Daniel and one for John Handy.

This just left the two doubles matches. Both were very close affairs, with Kenilworth victorious in both by the closest of margins, 7-6.

Second, Kenilworth Croquet Club held its Annual Level Advanced Rules Association Croquet Tournament for the Castle Cup. Four times winner and current holder of the Cup, Henry Fellows was there to defend his title as were several of the Club's other top players. However Henry was beaten in round two by John Leader. John then remained unbeaten throughout the day, and so took the Cup from Henry.

Tennis Ladies find their feet (26th July 2010)

In the Coventry and District Ladies Lawn Tennis League, Kenilworth First team made their First Division place look more secure as they drew with Warwick Boat Club Seconds. Melanie Jennings and Kate Perkins took both their rubbers. Jasmeet Kaler and Sarah Money came agonisingly close against the Boat Club second pair but lost in a Championship tie-break.

After a disappointing few weeks, Kenilworth second team were pleased to come away from their visit to Warwick Boat Club with a maximum four points to help their struggle against relegation. The Boat Club third teams first couple were a little jaded, having travelled up from Salcombe that day. Kay Gebbels and Caroline Rhodes took full advantage, beating Ann Flower and Louise Street 6-1, 6-0 whilst Linda Clements and Kay Tomalin defeated Maggie Buckingham and Liz Graham 6-3, 6-3.

Clements and Tomalin were then convincing against Flower and Street, winning 6-4, 6-1. Gebbels and Rhodes had to fight hard for a tie-break first set as Buckingham and Graham hit a purple patch but then had an easier second set 7-6, 6-0.

The Thirds went down 1-3 without captain Gill Cure and Patsy Fuller. Carolyn Lindsay and Jacquie Roe did well to take one rubber against Hampton in Arden First team and although second pair Chris Coe and Helen Hunter played well, they found the step up to the Third Division a hard battle.

Difficult week for tennis ladies (19th July 2010)

In the Coventry and District Ladies Lawn Tennis League, and in a week plagued by weather problems, Kenilworth First team did enough to keep them on the path to retaining their First Division place when they secured a 2-2 draw at home against Warwick Boat Club 1.

Melanie Jennings and Nicola Horobin proved a formidable partnership as they defeated both Jackie Robinson and Jenny Waggott and Susie Rowe and Kate Young. Rosie Fuller and Sarah Money had good games but were not quite strong enough to lift a rubber.

The Seconds were again defeated 4-0 by Esporta Seconds and the Thirds lost by a similar margin to LeamingtonThirds.

The weather totally defeated the Fourth team, who had to reschedule their match against Beechwood Fourths.

Croquet maintains unbeaten run (19th July 2010)

Kenilworth hosted Stourbridge on Sunday in the West Midlands Association Croquet League. The match was played in blustery conditions and Kenilworth extended their unbeaten run in the League, winning by seven games to one.

Peter Dennis, Cliff Daniels & Ray Clipson were unbeaten and John Handy just failed to make his 2nd win. Ray Clipson has been on form this season and these wins brings his successes to seven in a row!

Another milestone for Tennis Juniors (18th July 2010)

On Saturday 17 July, Kenilworth Tennis Club held a Junior and Parent Doubles Tournament for the first time. It was a very popular event, with 20 pairs entering and many more who would have liked to play. The ages of the juniors completing ranged from 9 years old to 17. There was every conceivable doubles combination with mixed, male and female partnerships.

There was a real buzz throughout the afternoon, with some very good tennis played in excellent spirit. The juniors all excelled themselves with the parents doing their (occasionally somewhat inconsistent) best. Some parents indeed found themselves receiving lively advice from their offspring for alleged lapses in concentration.

The winning pair were Tom (18) and Anne Holmes. The runners up were Freddie (10) and Jim Davies with third place taken by Nicola (11) and Paul Jennings. The ages of the adults are, of course, subject to the Official Secrets Act.

The "Wooden Racket" award was expertly won by the Casey family, who kindly stepped in to cover a late withdrawal, so were unable to put in the hours of practice that other combinations had managed. John Casey was, however, voted by the Juniors as the Adult player of the tournament, possibly because they felt he was generous in allowing them some points.

The junior player of the tournament was Milly Webb who helped to guide her Dad Tony through some tough matches. The winners of the "Matching Outfits" Award went to Joseph and Sally Porter. The sleek black Adidas Outfits topped off with matching black caps meant their outfits were as sharp as their play.

A great day was had by all in kind weather and another milestone in encouraging juniors at Crackley Lane was reached.

Click here for larger photo.

Hard week for Tennis Ladies (14th July 2010)

In the Coventry and District Ladies Lawn Tennis League, Kenilworth teams tried hard, but without much success, last week.

The Firsts travelled to Leamington, who fielded one of their strongest teams on top form. The Seconds hosted top of the division Stratford whose first couple, Natasha Hillyer and Charlotte Gorst were just too strong. Kay Gebbels and Caroline Rhodes had their customary battle against Helen Mayers and Eileen Robinson but this time came out the wrong side of a championship tie-break.

There was one saving grace as Linda Clements and Kay Tomalin travelled back to Knowle and Dorridge to complete their game. The score had stood at 5-0 to the Kenilworth pair when the lights went out the week before; they capitalised on their lead and took the championship tie-break 10-2 to salvage one point from that match.

Without first couple Patsy Fuller and Carolyn Lindsay, the thirds went down at Warwick Tennis Club against their second team. Captain Gill Cure and Jacquie Roe did take one rubber against the Warwick second couple but Sarah Sheldrick and Belinda Simmons could not quite prevail.

The Fourths managed a draw at Hampton against their second team. Helen Cochrane and Helen Hunter just lost a nail-bitingly close championship tie-break to first couple Christine Durbin and Jane Imlah 12 points to 14. Chris Coe and Belinda Simmons took a little longer to weigh up the tricky opposition and lost 3-6, 4-6, but both Kenilworth couples had straight sets victories over the Hampton second pair.

Ladies Winter Match Tennis (5th July 2010)

Are you interested in playing tennis for Kenilworth?

The summer tennis season is rapidly disappearing and we are already looking towards the winter season. If you are new to us and/or are thinking that you would enjoy playing for Kenilworth in a match, I would like to hear from you.

Winter matches are all held at weekends in the daytime. We have league and veterans (40+) teams playing in the winter at different levels and catering for different standards. We are also hoping to offer friendly matches as an introduction.

Please get in touch with me by mobile 07979 511165 / landline 02476 414919.

Caroline Rhodes (ladies captain)

Tennis Ladies in tough battles (26th June 2010)

Halfway through the season in the Coventry and District Ladies Lawn Tennis League, Kenilworth First team were well placed in third position in Division One.

This week, they travelled to David Lloyd Solihull and, in spite of three championship tie-breaks, came away with just one point, thanks to Nicola Horobin and Sarah Money. Rosie Fuller and Jasmeet Kaler came back against the seconds to take the second set, but then faded in their championship tie-break.

The Second team lay seventh in the Second division at the midpoint but started the second half in much better form as they took maximum points from visitors David Lloyd Solihull 2. Linda Clements and Kate Perkins needed a championship tie break to beat Joyce Dale and Wendy Supperstone 7-5, 3-6, 1-0 (10-7). Kay Gebbels and Caroline Rhodes were A set and 3-2 up against Dale and Supperstone when an incredibly long service game went to the serving Kenilworth pair who were then able to complete the match 6-4, 6-2. Both couples had straight sets wins against Flora Blackett and Antoinette Fisher.

The sixth placed Third team struggled against a strong Beechwood Third team with Patsy Fuller and Carolyn Lindsay once again capturing Kenilworth’s sole point as they beat Suzanne Roberts and Jenny Brown 6-2, 6-4. Both Fuller and Lindsay, and Gill Cure and Jacquie Roe, lost to Gianna Boera and Yu Cowie. The Fourth team, meanwhile, also came away with just one point from Coventry and North Warwicks.

Close Croquet win (22nd June 2010)

The June tournament of Kenilworth Croquet Club took place last week with each competitor playing five games of 14 point Association format. This format was new to Kenilworth but all agreed it provided competitive, exciting and enjoyable croquet.

The final match of the afternoon saw Cliff Daniel play Ray Clipson, both at that stage on three wins each. Daniel’s 14 hoop to 5 victory sealed the tournament with 4 wins.

Pauline Dennis’ performance of three wins from 6 was particularly creditable in her debut tournament.

Click here for photos of the event.

Tennis Championships (20th June 2010)

The Tennis Championships of Kenilworth Tennis and Squash Club were played on Saturday 19 June.

In the Mixed Handicap Doubles, Stan Barker & Helen Allen beat Tom Holmes & Sarah Sheldrick 3-6, 6-5, 6-2. This match was keenly contested, and a hard fought victory for Barker and Allen after coming through a very tense second set. Eventually they closed the match out with cool heads to take a hard earned win.

In the Ladies Handicap Doubles, Juliet Howard & Caroline Rhodes beat Anne Holmes & Belinda Simmons 6-5, 6-3. Consistency and good net play proved to be the key for Howard and Rhodes, who came through a close first set, with one break deciding the second set.

In the Men’s Handicap Doubles,Steve Proctor & Bill Hathaway beat Paul Jennings & Grant Duncan 6-3, 3-6, 6-0. New member Hathaway and Proctor played well throughout, and despite strong serving from their opponents, broke critically several times in the last set, to take a deserved victory.

Charlie Griffin beat Cameron Fisher 6-1, 6-2 in the Men’s Open Singles. Great to see two young men in this final, including a new member Fisher. The match had plenty of powerful hitting, and strong serving. Griffin proving too good for Fisher in the end, playing his usual steady tennis.

Melanie Jennings beat Rosie Fuller 6-0, 6-3 in the Ladies Open Singles. Some long baseline rallies made this a good match to end the day on, and although Fuller took some time to get on the scoreboard, she played herself into contention in the second set, only losing out to patience from Jennings who raised her game again to take another title.

Photo shows (left to right) Caroline Rhodes, Juliet Howard, Anne Holmes and Belinda Simmons.

Click here for photo gallery.

Difficult week for Kenilworth Tennis Ladies (13th June 2010)

In the Coventry and District Ladies Lawn Tennis League, Kenilworth First team lost their unbeaten record to Beechwood firsts. Melanie Jennings and Nicola Horobin salvaged one point but Rosie Fuller and Sarah Money failed to take a rubber from the strong visiting team.

The Second team suffered the same 1-3 score away against Warwick Tennis Club Firsts. Kate Perkins and Kay Tomalin fought hard to take the one point with a nail-biting championship tie-break (10-8) against the second couple, but the home team were just too steady on their own courts to let any more rubbers escape.

The Thirds also lost at Berkswell. Carolyn Lindsay and Patsy Fuller played a clever tactical game, frustrating the opposition with their pin-point lobbing to take Kenilworth’s one point.

It was left to the Fourth team to come up with a 3-1 win against Leamington Fifth team. “The Helens” (Cochrane and Hunter) had straight sets wins against both Leamington couples. Chris Coe and Belinda Simmons beat second couple Alison Jackson and Jan Randall 6-3,7-5 and then lost a championship tie-break to Jo Perkins and Judy Hughes.

Busy Tennis Summer (13th June 2010)

Kenilworth Tennis Club in Crackley Lane is having a busy Summer season.

On Sunday, 13 June, another successful American Mixed Doubles tournament was held, with "automatic handicapping" in the manner in which players rotated between courts after each round. The last ball was hit just as the rain started, so the timing was perfect.

In the Ladies section, Sheila Skinner finished first, just ahead of Sarah Sheldrick, with Anne Holmes and Alison Ducker tied third. Among the men, Steve Proctor just held off the challenge of Tom Holmes, with Bob Potts third.

Tom, who is a junior assistant coach, has an important engagement when he goes to the first week of the Wimbledon Championships to help run the "Kids' Zone" court, where any member of the public can try out tennis on a small court, with racquets and balls provided.

Tom has done this before, and felt really involved, meeting some of the big names of professional tennis who have dropped by to see the fun.

Part of the attraction is a "reaction test" board, where people are asked to respond to lights switching on in random places. A good score would be to switch off 25 lights in a minute.

Tom heard that, at another event, World Formula One Champion Lewis Hamilton reached the tremendous total of over 50 - an indication of the very fast reactions at that level of his sport.

Another good win for Kenilworth Croquet (13th June 2010)

Kenilworth Croquet Club travelled to Edgbaston last week for the local Derby march in the West Midlands Federation Association Croquet League.

The day started well when experienced Club stalwart, Bill Sidebottom, was teamed with Warwick University student, Rachel Rowe, in the doubles match to earn an early victory.

Adrian Morris won both his singles. Peter Dennis added another and with Rachel Rowe winning her singles match, Kenilworth were victorious by 5 matches to 2.

Ladies First team still unbeaten (1st June 2010)

In the Coventry and District Ladies Lawn Tennis League, Kenilworth ladies first team continued their unbeaten start to the season with a 3-1 win against Warwick Boat Club 2.

Melanie Jennings teamed up with Kay Gebbels to take two convincing rubbers whilst Nicola Horobin and Kate Perkins secured the third point. Kenilworth’s second team produced the same 3-1 score against Boat Club thirds, their first victory of the season.

Kay Gebbels and Caroline Rhodes lost a tight championship tie-break 8-10 to Louise Street and Odette Sykes, but new member Jasmeet Kaler, playing in her first league match, partnered Linda Clements to an equally close championship tie-break win against the same pair. Linda’s experience helped Jasmeet settle after a tentative start against Anne Flower and Kirsten Boyce and they took a 6-4, 6-2 victory.

Gebbels and Rhodes also beat Flower and Boyce in straight sets. The Third Team had a hard time away against Hampton in Arden firsts. They came away empty handed, in spite of valiant efforts from Patsy Fuller and Carolyn Lindsay who fought long and hard against first couple Lucy Wase and Katie Marsden before going down 6-3, 3-6, 0-1 (9-11). Kate Ivy and Jacquie Roe were unable to take a set and Fuller and Lindsay, tired after their first rubber marathon, also lost in straight sets to Mason and Jones.

Mixed fortunes for Tennis Ladies (25th May 2010)

In the Coventry and District Ladies Lawn Tennis League, Kenilworth ladies first team have just held last year's champions Warwick Boat Club to an away draw.

Nicola Horobin and Melanie Jennings beat Kate Young and Susie Rowe 6-4, 6-2 and beat Jenny Waggott and Jackie Robinson 6-4, 6-4.

Rosie Fuller and Sarah Money lost to Waggott and Robinson 2-6, 3-6 and lost to Young and Rowe 2-6, 4-6. This means that unbeaten Kenilworth remain second in the First Division, behind leaders Esporta Health and Racquets Club.

The Second team are struggling early on in Division 2 as Linda Clements and Kay Tomalin and Patsy Fuller and Caroline Rhodes went down 0-4 at home to WHRC second team.

The Thirds also lost a tough match away against Leamington thirds. Stalwarts Patsy Fuller and Carolyn Lindsay lost a championship tie-break to the firsts before salvaging a point with a straight sets victory against the second pairing.

Also playing away, the Fourth team had a good 3-1 win against Beechwood Fourths, with new pairing Helen Cochrane and Belinda Simmons looking strong with two convincing straight sets victories and Paddy Deeley and Sarah Sheldrick picking up a useful rubber against the seconds.

Ladies Veterans (17th May 2010)

After a bye through the preliminary round Kenilworth Tennis Club Ladies Veterans team moved on to the second round of the National Inter-Club Knockout competition as they defeated Congleton.

The Kenilworth ladies found the Congleton hard courts difficult to adjust to, but were 2-0 up at the half-way stage. Kay Gebbels and Caroline Rhodes struggled to get used to the courts and needed a championship tie-break to beat the first couple 0-6, 6-3, 1-0 (10-5). Nicola Horobin and Kate Perkins took an easier first set but then had a hard fight against an improving Congleton second couple to win 6-2, 6-4.

The match then looked to be slipping away from Kenilworth as Gebbels and Rhodes succumbed 3-6, 2-6 to the seconds and Horobin and Perkins lost the first set. They fought back , winning lengthy rallies on the hard courts to take the second set and the match hung on the championship tie-break which finally went Kenilworth’s way 4-6, 6-4, 1-0 (10-7).

Kenilworth travel even further in the next round to take on Blackburn.

Lindsay family in great form (16th May 2010)

Carolyn Lindsay finished runner up in Women's Over 45 section of the National Racketball Championships at Edgbaston Priory last week. Andrew Lindsay Carolyn's son, was runner up for the Plate in the Mens' main event.

Graham Greensall won the men's over 55 plate.

A newly developed Price black ball was used, this being the first time for many players.

The standard was very high. Peter Nicol the former World Number One Squash player just lost to Darryl Seby (his 5th time of winning the competition. Some rallies lasted over 80 shots. Laura Hill (Derbyshire) retained her Womens' title by beating Lauren Selby in the final.

Sarah-Jane Perry, also of Kenilworth, lost an epic 55 minute battle 3-1 to Lauren Selby in the semi-final of the Ladies Open event.

Photo shows Carolyn (middle) receiving her trophy.

8th Kenilworth win Guides Centenary Croquet Cup (16th May 2010)

Kenilworth Croquet Club were not at all sure what to expect when twenty Guides arrived to compete for the Centenary Croquet Cup last week. Each Guide Unit had had some brief training, but not on the best of grass, and were pleasantly surprised to see the Croquet lawns at the Crackley Lane Club.

There was much enthusiasm and as the afternoon progressed, levels of skill increased with some impressive hoop running and clearance shots were displayed. After an enjoyable and competitive afternoon, the final was between 8th Kenilworth and 1st Kenilworth. Sarah and Hannah of 1st took an early lead by two hoops but Jodie and Bethany of 8th came back to win by four hoops to two.

A very enjoyable event and likely to be repeated again next year.

Mixed fortunes for Tennis Ladies (11th May 2010)

In the Coventry and District Ladies Lawn Tennis League, Kenilworth First team continued their good start to the season with a draw against Rugby firsts. Melanie Jennings played with Nicola Horobin to beat both Rugby couples in straight sets. Rosie Fuller and Sarah Money were very close but lost the championship tie-break to Andrea Randle and Debbie Low and then lost in straight sets to Sharon Jones and Fiona Gree.

The following week they had a superb victory against Leamington Firsts adding another 3 points to their tally. Long established pairing Melanie Jennings and Kate Perkins were in top form as they raced through the first rubber beating Sara Butler and Angela Fretwell 6-1, 6-3. Second couple Lucie Butler and Irene Paxton caused them more trouble but they won 6-4, 3-6, 1-0 (10-5). Nicola Horobin and Rosie Fuller lost to Lucie Butler and Paxton 1-6, 1-6 but played brilliantly to defeat Sara Butler and Fretwell 6-4, 1-6, 1-0 (10-6).

The Second team have had a less successful start to the season losing to both Knowle and Dorridge and Stratford 1-3. Kay Gebbels and Caroline Rhodes rescued a rubber against Knowle and Dorridge’s Diana Best and Hilary Bramley but joined Linda Clements and Kay Tomalin in losing to Angela Cross and Jane James. Carolyn Lindsay, fresh from a national racket ball final the previous day, stepped up to join Linda Clements at Stratford. Both Kenilworth couples were soundly beaten by the Stratford first pairing of Natasha Hillyer and Charlotte Gorst. Rhodes and Gebbels again picked up one rubber in a championship tie break against old rivals Helen Mayers and Eileeen Robinson.

Kenilworth Thirds were strengthened by the return of Patsy Fuller who teamed with Carolyn Lindsay to take both rubbers in straight sets at Beechwood against their third team. Gill Cure and Jacquie Roe collected two sets against the second couple but lost to the first couple.

Croquet beginner learns fast (5th May 2010)

On 2nd May, following the excellent weather of April, Kenilworth Croquet Club held the first competition of the season, the Spring Trophy, on a bitterly cold Sunday afternoon. Rain threatened all afternoon but luckily held off.

The poor weather resulted in a limited number of competitors but all enjoyed competitive and close fought games. Bob Maskell emerged as a clear winner of the Spring Trophy in only his second season playing croquet.

He was presented with his trophy by club secretary John Handy (see photo).

Croquet Season starts (25th April 2010)

The snow in March delayed the opening of the lawns at Kenilworth Croquet Club but the beautiful weather in April has been much appreciated and enjoyed since the opening last week.

The first match of the season was at Northampton where local knowledge of the sloping lawn worked against Kenilworth. The Golf Croquet match was a close affair with Kenilworth ahead by 7-5 after the morning singles with Ray Clipson and Derek Fairburn scoring well. The afternoon doubles went with the home advantage, to give a narrow defeat 7-8.

The Association Croquet match saw Adrian Morris winning both his games but this was not enough to prevent another Northampton win by 6-2.

Good Winter for Tennis Ladies (19th April 2010)

Caroline Rhodes, Kenilworth Tennis Club Ladies Captain, is delighted that Kenilworth "A" team have gained promotion back up to Divison 1 in the Stratford and District Winter League. Unbeaten in Division 2, and equal on points with Bidford "A" they were just pipped at the post for the division title by virtue of Bidford winning more sets.

Belinda Simmons captained the "B" team to an excellent third place in Division 3 whilst fielding 16 different players—a tribute to Kenilworth’s strength in depth.

In the Birmingham and District Veterans League the first team, under the captaincy of Kay Gebbels were defending their title held for the last three years but finished runners up to a very strong Leamington side.

Gill Cure’s second team finished well up the second division, with many players contributing to the team’s success and gaining valuable match experience.

One Day Squash and Racketball Handicap Event - Review! (8th April 2010)

The day kicked off bright and early at 9.30am with the juniors leading the way, followed by the senior squash players and then the racketballers joining in at 12.30.

The new format foxed some, but eventually the handicapping and time concepts were grasped and some furious play ensued.

All 56 participants showed up, disregarding any injuries or ailments they may have had, (though one a little late), but rest assured there were many many stiff and tired limbs on Sunday morning but thankfully nothing more serious than a few bruised egos.

There were some tremendous matches along the way including Martyn Kerry coming within one mishit of knocking out Guy Pearson.

The round robin racketball was anybody’s after two matches with each player having won one match – this a testament to the wonderful handicapping I think. ;-)

What’s more the adults behaved themselves well, setting faultless sportsmanlike examples to the kids. No shouting, racket throwing or eye gouging here.

And so to the finals. Max Shapre beat Tom Steeley in the juniors, Graham Greensall got the better of Sally Broome in the racketball and Guy Pearson and his beloved wooden racket pipped a very relaxed Ian Cochrane (who’d been enjoying himself far too much) in the main final. Owen Bailey and Sam McKinnon carried off the plate events.

Well done to all who played and helped mark. All we need now is a more convincing rugby performance next year.

Click here for photos of the event.

"Real achievements" for Kenilworth tennis youngsters (22nd March 2010)

Junior players have had a great run of success recently.

Mharie Tyler represented Warwickshire Under Ten girls team on 14 March at Corby, playing against 12 other County teams.

Timmy Griew won the Under 14 boys Grade 4 event at Beechwood Tennis Club at half- term, beating Mathew Naylor in a thrilling three set match, after losing the first set.

Freddie Davies lost in the Final of the Under 12 boys competition at the same tournament and won the Grade 5 event at Beechwood on Sunday 7 March, beating some of top boys in the County in the process.

Head Tennis Coach, James Roe, said; "These are more real achievements for our very young players and again confirm what a wealth of young talent we have at Crackley Lane".

Chloe in great squash form again (8th March 2010)

15 year old Chloe Pearson has maintained her recent good form by coming fifth in the Under 17 English Championships just held in Nottingham.

Although playing above her age group she was successful in her two early round games to get through to the quarter final stage. There she met Victoria Temple-Murray from Devon who just edged the game 3-2 in a tremendous see saw battle which saw Chloe lead 1-0 and then come back from 2-1 down. The final game was a very close affair with Victoria just holding on.

After that, Chloe fought hard to finish fifth by winning her remaining two matches, the last against Nationally ranked No. 3, Jade Thompson from Yorkshire. Once again the match went to 5 games, with Chloe showing tremendous spirit to come back from 2-0 down and win 3-2.

Chloe is now No.7 in the country so this performance and other recent success may well see her start to be in contention for National representation next season.

Sarah-Jane's hopes of Melbourne trip (8th March 2010)

Sarah-Jane Perry reached the Squash final of the British Universities Colleges and Sport Association, held at Birmingham University, despite the restriction of recently damaged ankle ligaments.

Second seed Sarah-Jane raced to the semi-final with wins over Sarah Hudspeth (11-7, 11-4, 12-10) and Ann Babtie (11-3, 11-3, 11-5). Lotte Erikson proved to be a tougher opponent, Sarah-Jane winning a marathon match (7-11, 14-12, 10-12, 11-2, 11-9). The final against Vanessa Atikinson, former World Number 1 and currently World ranked 12, was even harder – Sarah-Jane competed well in the second and third games, but Vanessa won 11-2, 11-7, 11-7 to take the title.

This performance has increased Sarah-Jane’s chances of representing Great Britain at the World University Squash Championships to be held in Melbourne this Summer.

Squash success at National Championships (15th February 2010)

Kenilworth Squash Club duo Chris Hall and Sarah-Jane Perry both won their qualifying sections to reach the main draw of the National Squash Championships held at the National Squash Centre, Manchester.

Chris had 3-0 victories over: Jacob Robinson 11-4, 11-5, 11-4; Alex Phillips 11-3, 11-1, 11-4; Andrew Widdison (11-8, 11-8, 11-9). Chris was then beaten by 14th seed Adrian Waller 4-11, 5-11, 1-11 (0-3).

His Kenilworth Club colleague Chris Fuller beat Robert Taylor 11-6, 11-8, 11-8 (3-0), but then unexpectedly lost in the semi-final of qualifying tournament against James Earles 11-7, 3-11, 8-11, 3-11 (1-3).

Sarah-Jane beat Zephanie Curgenven 11-8, 9-11, 11-7, 13-11 (3-1) to set up a qualifying final against Leamington Spa’s Leonie Holt. Leonie had earlier beaten Victoria Bell 11-8, 11-9, 9-11, 12-14, 11-6 (3-2). Sarah-Jane’s reward for beating Leonie 11-7, 11-6, 11-9 (3-0) was a main-draw encounter with 2nd seed and the very talented World Number 5 Alison Waters.

Alison proved too strong for Sarah-Jane, winning 11-1, 11-4, 11-3 (3-0), and then beat another Leamington girl, 8th seed Emma Beddoes, 11-4, 11-8, 11-7 (3-0) – Emma reached this quarter-final by edging out Laura Hill 9-11, 7-11, 11-7, 11-8, 11-7 (3-2). Alison went on to win the title, defeating the holder Jenny Duncalf in an epic final.

Photo shows Sarah-Jane and Chris.

Kenilworth squash relegation fears with comfortable win (28th January 2010)

Match: Kenilworth vs. David Lloyd Great Barr

After last week’s resounding 4-1 win at Coventry and North Warwickshire this week saw Guy Salmon Jaguar take on David Lloyd Great Barr.

First up for KSC was Justin Gulston against Andy Murray from David Lloyd Great Barr. Proving it’s not just the name he shares with the tennis supremo, Murray came out of the blocks flying to establish a 4-0 lead in the opener. However, a string of cleverly crafted disguises and deft touches rewarded Justin with ten unanswered points, giving KSC a 1-0 lead. The second game was a much tighter affair with neither player opening up more than a one point lead up to 8-8 before some unforced errors by Justin allowed Andy Murray to level the match at 1-1.

In the next, Murray began to control the T and out manoeuvre Justin early on. Justin responded in kind, storming back to 10-10 to force another tight finish, before running the baton home for a 13-11 win. Advantage Kenilworth. Murray imposed himself in the fourth, generating tremendous power with sharp racket speed to take the game into the decider. By now the momentum was with Murray and he used his experience to take control with some tight squash, forcing Justin to retreat of position. A sterling effort by Kenilworth new boy Justin who fell just short of a great scalp.

Second up for Kenilworth was Keith Watts, in a game of hard hitting on a very hot court. Keith did very well to control the game on a night where the ball was flying off the racket, at a pace much better suited to his younger opponent. However, Keith used his experience and accuracy to dictate terms all the way through the match. Keith battled through some tight exchanges to secure a 12-10, 14-12, 11-8 win. With Kenilworth back on terms, an ominous scent filled the air.

Playing at two for Kenilworth was Guy Pearson. In the standout performance of the day, he really was a sight to behold. Comparable even to Federer, Bolt or Gilchrist at their belligerent best. A different breed of athlete, leaving the opponent looking up at the heavens for an answer. With such artistry in his racket control early, Guy surged into a 7-2 lead, reducing his bewildered opponent to spectator status. A stunning volley drop sealed the game to hand initiative for Kenilworth. The second game was much of the same as Pearson charged through the gears for an emphatic 11-3 win. The third was nothing short of an exhibition, with Guy taking complete control of the court and dazzling the crowd with his finesse and vigour. Team captain Chris Hall hopes Guy will remain unbeaten for rest of the year. After that performance, you wouldn’t want to bet against him.

It was Captain Hall who led by example in the one-string tie. If Guy’s display was a masterclass in the full repertoire of squash strokes , Chris’s was one of supreme efficiency. Think Sachin Tendulkar; taking a capricious art and making it look like a risk free activity. The straight drive, that back hand lob – all executed with consummate ease even when under pressure - to make an organised and skilful opponent look mediocre at best. A consistent good length both on straight and back-court drives with the ball dying in the corners meant that Chris’ opponent was always chasing the ball. A routine 11-6, 11-3, 11-6 win for Chris saw Guy Salmon Jaguar Kenilworth record a fine 3-1 victory, with a nine game winning streak to boot.

The return of players and sublime form has come at the right time for KSC. Any fears of relegation have been emphatically laid to rest. Here’s hoping for an even better outing next week.

Sarah-Jane Perry successfully defends her County Squash Title (24th January 2010)

Sarah-Jane Perry has successfully defended her Warwickshire County Squash Title at Sutton Coldfield Squash Club.

The 19-year old Warwick University student had a 9-5, 9-1 9-4 (3-0) semi-final victory over Kerry Pottinger from Barnt Green, followed by an emphatic 9-1, 9-2, 9-0 (3-0) triumph over Jill Chilvers from Stratford-upon Avon in the final.

This was Sarah-Jane’s third win in four years.

Sarah-Jane is pictured with a number of trophies, including the European Junior Squash Championship.

Calling all ladies interested in playing team tennis (4th January 2010)

Formal match practice for the summer leagues is in March/April. Many ladies are already involved in winter league play but there may be others who have not yet had a game or have not told me that they are interested in match play.

During the winter I would like to arrange some competitive fours to offer everyone who is interested the chance of a game and some informal team practice. Remember that we have four teams in the summer so a range of ability is catered for. The winter could be your chance to have a go at match tennis. For already established players it is a chance to try some new pairings and/or have a game against couples you wouldn’t usually play.

If you are interested please add your name (and contact details) to the notice on the tennis notice board or give me a ring. My home number is 02476 414919. Other contact details are on the notice.

Caroline Rhodes
Ladies Captain

Tennis or skating for Kenilworth Ladies? (4th January 2010)

After the Christmas and New Year break, Kenilworth Tennis Club Ladies teams are eager for an end to frozen courts and biting winds, in time for the second half of the Winter season.

Kenilworth have two Ladies Teams playing in the Warwickshire Ladies' Veterans Winter League. The First team has drawn from a pool of eight players and hopes to complete a fourth consecutive win in 2010. At this point, they are second in the League of ten teams, ten points behind Leamington, with three matches yet to play. To date, four matches have been won and two lost. Convincing 8-0 wins were achieved against Hall Green and Warwick Boat Club.

Kenilworth Veterans Ladies Second team aims to encourage all ladies who are keen to participate in team tennis, and give them the opportunity to play matches in a relaxed and fun team environment. They have achieved this in the first half of the Winter league season fielding thirteen different players for six matches. The variety of pairings and players meant there was a different Captain for every game, giving many new players the experience of captaining the team. This team have won one, drawn one, and lost four, but the matches have all been keenly contested and very enjoyable for all concerned.

At the half way point in the Stratford and District League the “A” team, disappointed to be relegated last year, are well placed for promotion back up to the First Division. With 13 points they lie second to Bidford on 17 points. Kenilworth ladies have had to fight hard for their points, with the standard of tennis in the Second Division being very high.

This year the Club have not fielded a “C” team, as so many of the team players are already committed to Veterans matches. The “B” team, captained by Belinda Simmons, is drawn from a pool of the previous “B” and “C” teams and is doing exceptionally well to maintain a middle-of-the-table spot in the Third Division. The mix of relatively younger players and experience has produced excellent results and very enjoyable matches.

Kenilworth Tennis Squash and Croquet Club

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