Hat-trick for Dan (From Penarth Times)

Hat-trick for Dan

DAN Pethig, ranked number five in Wales at junior level, won a closely-fought final against Antony Nelms to become 21 & Under singles champion, at Dinas Powys Tennis Club, on Sunday.

Dan showed great determination in fighting back from 4-2 down in this one-set shoot-out, to complete a hat-trick of titles in his first year at the club: junior, senior and 21&U.

The 21 & Under mixed doubles event, introduced by the junior section of the club to renew old friendships and make some new, was also a close encounter, with Eric Brodbin and Diana Pugh overcoming Antony Nelmes and Kelly Blake in the final.

The girls 21 & Under singles final was also of a very high standard, with Diana Pugh,'old junior', just managing to hold off'young junior' Safiyyah Azeez by six games to four.

This year, the club also held a boys' 14 & Under doubles event, to encourage a great crowd of'rugby boys' to develop their tennis skills.

Rowan Davies and Matthew Thomas produced a solid display, to overcome Lewis May and Harry Driscoll six games to one in the final.

Margaret Hayley, vice president, presented trophies to the finalists and also made a special award to the club's most deserving junior.

This year, all agreed that the Sue Thomas Salver for outstanding achievements should go to Dan Pethig.

The club thanked Rob Walbyoff, club coach, for ensuring fair play. Anyone interested in joining in the fun should call either Rob on 07931 665431 or Jan Cunnin-gham on 2051 2961.