Spectators gathered in the sunshine at Odiham Tennis Club on Sunday 15th September for Finals Day of the 2024 Championships.
After many weeks of matches, the Men’s singles, Ladies’ singles, Ladies’ doubles and Mixed doubles events were decided on a sunny, breezy autumnal Sunday. It was a fun and sociable occasion, with Club Members enjoying some entertaining tennis, alongside jugs of Pimms, BBQ'd sausages, and a lot of cake.
Ladies' singles winner: Claire Mayes
In the women’s singles, after a nervy game with some incredibly long rallies, the win went to Claire Mayes, beating Emma Barnes 6-1, 6-3.
Men's singles winner: Claudio Nold
The men’s singles was a highly competitive match between Claudio Nold and Francois Mahieu, with Claudio coming out on top with a final score of 6-3, 6-4.
Ladies' doubles winners: Emma Barnes and Sharon de Botte
The Ladies’ doubles saw Emma Barnes and Sharon de Botte defending and retaining their title with a tactical game against Sue Cockcroft and Veronica Pulleyn, resulting in a 6-1, 6-3 win.
Mixed doubles winners: Claire Mayes and Andrew Ridgers
The final match of the day was a much-anticipated battle for the Mixed doubles title, with Emma Barnes (appearing in her third final of the day) and Claudio Nold taking on Claire Mayes and Andrew Ridgers. After two highly entertaining sets, Claire and Andrew held their nerve in a 10-point Championship tie break to take the title 3-6, 6-2, 10-5.
Men's Doubles winners: Lee Aubrey and Andrew Ridgers
The Men’s Doubles title went to Lee Aubrey and Andrew Ridgers, as their intended opponents, Harry Little and Neil Watkins, were unable to play on the day.
And finally...
Huge thanks go to Jackie O’Regan for her stellar organisation of this year’s event. Also, thank you to all the Club Members who entered the competition and played their rounds in such a competitive but fun spirit, and to all the volunteers who made Finals Day such a success, with special shout outs to Lee Aubrey for his terrific photos and Caroline Wright for her sumptuous cakes!
The full draw and results are available on the LTA Competition Portal.