THE cream of the Old Pen's Racketball players competed in the clubs inaugural Racketball Tournament.

The players were split into two groups with the top two in each group qualifying for the semi-finals.

In the first group were Dallas Hayvice, Peter Legg, Pat Westlake, Gary Blackmore, Emyr Williams and Colin Rodgerson.

In this section there were several close and exciting games. Peter beat Pat, Gary and Emyr 3-2 and Dallas beat Colin by the same score. The eventual group winner was Dallas with Peter runner up.

In group two were John, Charlie Graddon, Dave Pearn, Josh Johnson, Gary Declaire and his brother Richard Declaire.

The first major shock of the tournament was the defeat of number two seed Charlie by Dave. Then two controversial rulings by the committee completely changed the course of the competition.

John had played and beaten Charlie 3-2, but they had played three days before the scheduled date and without a referee. The committee ordered a rematch, which Charlie won 3-2.

Dave was beating John 2-1 when he told John he was unable to complete the match and wanted to complete it the following day. Again a rematch was ordered. Dave was unhappy about this ruling and withdrew from the tournament.

There was a lot of good quality Racketball and many close games. Josh had narrow wins against both of the Declaire brothers.

Probably the most exciting matches of the tournament was a 45 minute epic between the two brothers, with Gary declared the winner13-11 in the fifth.

Dave's withdrawal and his replayed win against John allowed Charlie to win this group with John as runner up.

In the first semifinal Dallas was too skilful for John, winning 3-1 and Charlie beat Peter in the other semi by the same score. John beat Peter in the third place play off.

Dallas was overwhelming favourite to beat Charlie in the final, but was persuaded to drink four pints of Guinness before the match.

Not surprisingly a talented Kiwi fortified by the national drink of Ireland was always going to be too good for a mere Welshman. Charlie played well but finally succumbed 3-1

Congratulations to Dallas who is now the Old Pen's Squash and Racketball Champion.

Anyone who is interested in playing squash or racketball or both should contact the club on 02920701810, Colin Rodgerson on 02920702133 or John Birch-Hurst on 07809055257.

For those who have never played before, equipment can be borrowed and basic instruction given.