It was the 25th staging of the English Nationals Masters Championships and they certainly didn’t disappoint. With a total of 533 matches played over the weekend, there were many standout performances at Hertfordshire Sports Village, Hatfield. There was a debut Master’s title for Christopher Gilbert in the men’s singles over 35’s as well as David Edgar in the men’s doubles over 35’s alongside Ali Chowdhury. In the over 70’s, there was a triple crown for Jim Garrett taking the singles, doubles and mixed titles with partners Mike Cox and Angela Brown.
Another triple crown was awarded to Christine Crossley. There was victory in the over 65’s women’s singles then Crossley played down an age group in the over 60’s and claimed the doubles and mixed titles with Jenny Cox and Ian Purton respectively. Simon Gilhooly also won triple gold in the over 50’s singles, doubles with Justin Andrews and mixed with Sara Foster. Caroline Hale came close to a treble, winning the over 45’s women’s singles then took the women’s doubles over 50’s with Liz Austin.
However, she just missed out on gold in the mixed doubles over 50’s final with partner Jon Austin. He also earnt a second silver medal in the men’ doubles over 50’s. Double golds also went to Rebecca Pantaney (WD35 & XD40), Ian Purton (MD60 & XD60) and William Hamblett (MD65 & XD65). For full results, please click here.
