Congratulations to Gordon Reid for winning the IC of GB Sportsmanship Award 2020. Please see below the presentation speech given by Anne Clark (Chair of the IC of GB) last week at the AELTC.

''Firstly, many thanks to the AELTC for kindly allowing us to present this special Award at the Club.

The IC of GB Sportsmanship Award is given to a British tennis player who has over the course of his/her career or in a single situation has shown an admirable attitude as a sportsman or sportswoman.

The list of previous winners is impressive and I have great pleasure in helping present the 2020 award to Gordon Reid.

The IC helps promote and renew friendships across the net and the world and encourages fair play and sportsmanship, something that Gordon has consistently done.

Gordon relished the opportunity to remain in the sport discovering wheelchair tennis after developing a rare neurological condition, transverse myelitis, in 2004. Since then his achievements have been remarkable – I won’t list them all as I said this would be a short speech but to pick out a few, Gordon achieved the number 1 spot in singles in 2016, doubles in 2015; winner and finalist in many grand slams (singles and doubles) and a gold medal winner Paralympics 2016 (singles) and silver medal in the doubles.

Gordon has been rightly recognised many times for his fair play and sportsmanship throughout his tennis career and I know is an inspiration to many with his tenacity, courage and enthusiasm.

A very worthy winner of this special award.''

The IC of GB welcomed their new members on Saturday 1^st February, at the Wimbledon Club.

A social mix-in was held at 5.30-7pm before reception drinks and dinner. Nine new members attended, with over 30 members and guests in total.

After a lovely three course meal, Benson Greatrex gave an overview of the IC Council, the IC of GB and a run through of the key fixtures and events that take place during the year. New members were then presented with their IC of GB ties and bracelets for the men and women respectively.  Anne Clark was introduced as the 2020 Captain, as was Susie Dart, in her New Member Liaison role.

Many thanks to Clare Wood for organising and to The Wimbledon Club for hosting us so well, once again.

2020 New Members

Scott Clayton         

Jess Ren               

Sian Bayliss           

Jamie Muirhead               

Matt James            

Senka Softic          

Debbie Louise Hale

Candy Reid Harrop 

Gillian Brown          

Chris Hill                

Malcolm Bryant

James Cluskey (visiting)

8th October 2019

Bradfield College

Result: IC of GB win 10-3

 

On the 8th October, the IC team of 6 men and 4 women played in the annual fixture against Bradfield College for the Henry Billington Salver, kindly donated last year by his son Tony. The weather in west Berkshire was challenging but only meant we had to utilise their wonderful indoor acrylic courts until the weather cleared and we could revert to the 6 outdoor clay courts to conclude the match.

Following some very close fought matches the final score of 6-3 for the men and 4-0 for the women was more lop sided than the tennis suggested. The quality of the tennis on display from the Bradfield team was the highest I have seen in the 8 years I have been playing in the fixture, and there is more to come as the tennis programme continues to develop under the stewardship of Damian Fuller. One particular low light for the IC (and highlight for Bradfield of course) was the loss by Andy Creighton and Johnny Barr to the Bradfield first pair of Angus Creighton and his partner Bailey McAtee.  

The teams retired to a private room at the Bull Inn, a local hostelry, for a wonderful dinner hosted by the school where Tony Billington presented the Henry Billington Salver to the winning Captains.

Thanks to all the members of the IC listed below for taking time out of their busy schedules on a Tuesday afternoon in October to play and the aim for next year is to have teams of 6 for both men and women (to reflect the strength in depth of the Bradfield teams now coming through.)

Fleur Clegg
Alison Denly
Nathalie Squires
Alison Longfield (guest) 

Andy Creighton
Johnny Barr
David Collins
Lewis Barnes
Richard Ground
Simon Curtis

IC of GB v IC of France

4/5 October 2019

Match venue: Queens Club

 

GB WINS 27 – 7

GB Team – Mark Beim, Simon Curtis, Oscar Podlewski, Roger Taylor, Henk Hijeboer, James Marsalak, Andy Philips, Chris Hearn, Robin Drysdale, Mike Dawe, Alec Allen, Lee Childs, Paul Martin, Rupert North, David Collins, Jo Shepherd, Ali Innes, Pat Wire, Judy Horn, Anne Clark, Nuala Kalfayan

Match Report by Mark Beim

This year our match was held at the prestigious Queens Club. We had a strong team with many great matches played over the two days. Thanks to all my players for playing and thanks for Queens for hosting and the delicious lunches and dinners. We were royally looked after.

 

Match highlights – wonderful dinner with entertaining speeches from Benson, Clare Wood, Mark,  Michel Leclercq and the French captain Heiner Tadault plus a fun game of ‘who am I’ which caused a lot of entertainment.

 

Henk had to described himself as Dracula and Jack the Ripper! 

 

Thanks to all my players for playing and winning!

 

Special thanks to Ross Niland and Lee Childs (in particular) who helped greatly in organising the event.

IC of GB Team with our amazing Puente Romano hosts

With great expectation, our team of Lewis Burton / Jim May / Ross Matheson / Gary Drake / Shaun Leleu & Johnny Barr headed off to the fabulous Puente Romano Resort in Marbella, Spain to take on the might of the Spanish team.

In previous years Puente Romano have fielded ex Davis Cup players and Grand Slam Champions such as Pat Cash, and this year was no exception with Puente Romano fielding Pato Clavet (ex ATP #18 with career wins over Messrs Agassi / Sampras amongst many others) and his brother Jose (Pepo) Clavet who himself made the 3^rd round at Roland Garros and is the current coach to Feliciano Lopez.

Although the match was on the Saturday our IC of GB team flew out on Thursday and had 2 days of hard clay court training sessions, followed by watching the Seniors Masters Cup also being held at Puente Romano the same weekend. With players such as Tommy Haas, David Ferrer , Tommy Robredo and Feliciano Lopez our IC of GB team were inspired and came out of the blocks fast and furiously against our elegant hosts.

IC of GB Team 3pts v Puente Romano 4pts

Lewis Burton lost to Pato Clavet 1-6 0-6

Jim May lost to Nicolas Delgado 4-6, 6-2, 0-1 (7) *

Ross Matheson beat Ales Dvorak 6-1, 6-3

Shaun Leleu beat Antonio Diaz 6-1 / 6-3

Johnny Barr / Gary Drake beat Rene Primelles 6-4,6-0

Johnny Barr / Gary Drake lost to Jose Clavet & Sergio Gomez 5-7, 6-7

Jim May / Ross Matheson lost to Jose Clavet / Pato Clavet 8-10 in a pro set**

As the match lasted so long in the searing heat and due to the fact that both Clavet brothers had to do the match warm ups for David Ferrer and Feliciano Lopez in their 7pm it was agreed by both team captains that with the match tied at 3-3 that a pro set in front of a packed Puente Romano Crowd who had gathered to watch The Seniors Masters Event would be a fitting finale.

Special thanks and sincere gratitude to Shaun Leleu of the Puente Romano resort and Bill Doyle the Puente Romano captain for their incredible hospitality in their generous hosting, but most importantly for the fabulous teams they put out against us with players who play hard and fairly plus can socialise in equal gusto. This is truly the most exceptional fixture and it is an absolute pleasure to arrange, play and captain it – competition will be hot for places as we aim to compete even harder in 2020.

Johnny Barr (Match Captain IC of GB v Puente Romano 2019)

IC Week 2019

8th - 12th September

Full results can be found here

The ladies were crowned deserving champions beating France in the final, while the men narrowly lost to Germany in the 3rd place play-off, with France winning the event. We were very well looked after - Le Touquet is a fantastic town to play tennis in.

IC Week - Men's Event - Match Report

Men's Captain Nick Adams:

Team: Lewis Burton, Oscar Podlewski, Seb Jackson, Nick Adams, Andy Burgoyne

The men's IC Week event was attended by 8 teams, a number of which fielded very strong individuals.  The host nation had the over 45 world champion and a past over 45 world champion (and past ATP no 61) on their seniors team, as well as a player who was until last year 170 in the world leading their open bracket.  It was no surprise that they ran out comfortable winners of the competition.  Other teams also had strong players representing their teams - Michael Berrer, with a win against Rafael Nadal in 2016, playing the tour until 2017 and inside top 50 at peak, turned out for Germany, and Luis Hererer, also top 50 at peak played for Mexico.

The GB team, represented by Lewis Burton and Oscar Podlewski in the Open, and Seb Jackson, Andy Burgoyne and Nick Adams in the over 45s finished 4th.  The team played well to beat Luxembourg 4-2 in the quarter finals, winning both doubles comfortably to clinch the tie.  However, the French were simply too strong at singles in the semifinals, and the team were 4-0 down before the doubles matches.  In the 3rd/4th play-off vs Germany, we were pipped at the post, losing on a deciding champions tie-break with Michael Berrer proving the difference between the teams - experience certainly counted!

The hospitality was fantastic, with the French IC putting on very generous evening events throughout the week.  As a team we were chaperoned by 1967 Roland Garros winner Francoise Durr, who was tireless in her efforts to ensure we enjoyed ourselves.  We agreed to award Francoise membership of the IC of Great Britain.

IC Week - Ladies Event - Match Report

Ladies Captain: Leyla Ogan 

Team: Katie O’ Brien; Lucie Ahl and Leyla Ogan 

We had a great week in Le Touquet competing in IC week. On day 1 ee were drawn against Ireland first round and we had a 3/0. Katie was competing in the open age group and Lucie in the over 40s. Lucie and myself paired up for the doubles. We had a great start to the event and beat the Irish 3/0. The afternoon was spent relaxing and exploring around the town. In the evening we had a really nice dinner on the harbour and were treated to the train ride in and out of town. 

We played Germany in the semi finals: We knew this was going to be a tough day as we knew the girls from various events. We went into the doubles at 1-1 after Lucie had a tough match and Katie played awesome to level the tie. Katie and Lucie battled thru an epic doubles having lost the first set 6-0 but then won 10-8 in the champs tie break to put us into the finals. 

The ladies and the men enjoyed a cycle round town with the other teams and had a great sightseeing trip. 

Day 3 was Finals Day v France followed by a Gala Dinner. Lucie was first up against Olivia Ferry and started out so strong. Her experience prevailed and put GB in the lead. Katie was on next in the open age group. Katie who barely made a mistake all week continued her form and got the job done. GB beat France 2-0 in the finals and we were the champions. We were presented at the Gala Dinner 

We all had a great week and enjoyed the hospitality of the French. It was great to meet new people and catch up with old tennis friends. 

Great trip and thanks for the support everyone

Result: USA win 20-16 and retain the trophy

The 2019 Ted Avory Cup was held in Berkeley, California from the 27^th-30^th August 2019. The bi-annual fixture between the USA and GB took place at Berkeley Tennis Club just outside of San Francisco. Both countries fielded strong teams with players from the open to the 75s age categories.

20 matches were played on day 1, with many tightly fought battles and some stand out matches being played on court number 3 in particular. First up was Michael Dawe who lost out to Paul Wulf in a thrilling match ending in 3^rd set tiebreak which went to Wulf 10-6. Then came the battle of the Judy’s who fought out a 3 hour epic match with Judy Horn narrowly losing out to Judy Newman 10-7 in the 3^rd set tiebreak. Henk Nijeboer, Simon Bramwell, Tash Starling, Ali Innes and Phillip Siviter all picked up great singles wins whilst we also had some brilliant doubles results. The open/30s mens doubles match was of a particularly high standard and GB got the win with a great performance from Mark Whitehouse and David Culshaw. The day ended with the US leading 11-9.

The official match dinner was held on the Wednesday evening at the Claremont Country Club. Speeches were made by both captains and honorary memberships were given out from both the US IC and the IC of GB. Erika Smith and Paul Wulf were made honorary members of the IC of GB and Amanda Elliott and Philip Siviter were made honorary members of the US IC.

On day two 16 matches were played with notable singles wins from Mark Whitehouse, Tash Starling and Henk Nijeboer, followed by some very close doubles matches where we won a couple in the 10 point tiebreaks – revenge for the previous day! Congratulations to Henk Nijeboer and Tash Starling for winning all their matches over the 2 days. The fixture ended with the US retaining the trophy by claiming victory by 20 rubbers to 16.

The IC’s of GB and the USA hosted a Special Olympics clinic on the Friday morning as part of the philanthropic movement of the IC, before visiting the Napa Valley wine district for a wine tour in the afternoon.

Many thanks to the US IC for a fantastic match and hospitality, and also to the GB team for being brilliant both on and off the court!

GB Team

Tash Starling, Amanda Elliott (c), Ali Innes, Claire Haslett, Karen Hunter, Susie Dart, Karen Cass, Judy Horn, Anne Clark, Mark Whitehouse, David Culshaw, Simon Bramwell, Paul Scullard, Graham Neale, Michael Dawe, Phillip Siviter, Henk Nijeboer

US Team

Julie Silverira, Shannon Gordon-Carney, Mary Beth-Williams, Judy Newman, Anne Young, Maria Smith, Lisa Cheng, April Jourdan, Makenna Thiel, Mai Ichikawa-Abel, Andre Barnes, Francesca La'O, Mylene Martin, AlisaYee, Erika Smith (c), Paul Wulf, Mike Tammen, Joshua Osswald, Tyler Browne, Joe Bachmann, Jeff Greenwald, Brent Abel, Andre Dome, Shaun Choudhury, Rick Fried, Nick Brunner, Charlie Hoeveler (c)

Results in full below.

DAY ONE                                                                                                        DAY TWO

Date -  17-18th August

The IC of GB welcomed the IC of Norway for the first time, with the match taking place at the scenic St George’s Hill Club in Weybridge.

The Norwegians arrived on the Saturday however plans for some grass court practice were scuppered by the weather. In the evening we had an informal meal before the tennis on the Sunday. We welcomed Mike Carroll and Julian Tatum as guests from the IC Council to introduce them to the away team, many of whom were playing an IC match for the first time.

On Sunday some morning showers prevented the match from taking place on the grass, so we played on the artificial clay. GB benefited from home advantage winning 7-1, which included some closely fought matches. We look forward to arranging the away fixture in 2021. 

Results

Tash Starling & Oscar Podlewski bt Karoline Steiro & Marcus Andresen 6-3 7-6

Venki Sundaram & Chris Clark lost to Karl Henrik Bredvold 0-6 6-0 1-0

Henk Nijeboer & Terry Clarke (guest) bt Thomas Wettergreen & Iver Helgaker 4-6 6-1 1-0

Tash Starling bt Karoline Steiro 6-0 6-3

Oscar Podlewski bt Marcus Andresen 6-2 6-3

Henk Nijeboer & Chris Clark bt Iver Helgaker & Carsten Greve 7-6 6-1

Max Koep (guest) by Thomas Wettergreen 6-3 6-3

Jasper Richardson (guest) bt Karl Henrik Bredvold 6-1 6-3

The IC of GB hosted Fitwilliam LTC on the 10th August at Moor Park. The match was played on the grass with the IC team captained by Paddy May.

After some hard fought matches Fitzwilliam edged the IC of GB by 5 rubbers to 4.

Fitzwilliam LTC beat IC of GB 5-4

Results in full below, (Fitzwilliam players first)

Singles:

Sean Collins beat  Paddy May 6/3 2/6 10/7

Sean McCullagh beat Dave Culshaw 6/4 7/5

Ben Dillon lost to Gary Thompson 2/6 0/6

Graham Smyth beat James Wrisdale 4/6 7/6 10/7

Sarah Curran lost to Laura Morrill 3/6 1/6

Alexandra Pickerill lost to Emma Kudzin 4/6 3/6

Doubles:

Sean Collins & Sean McCullagh beat Dave Culshaw & Paddy May 2/6 6/3 10/7

Ben Dillon Graham Smyth beat Gary Thompson & James Wrisdale 6/2 7/6

Sarah Curran & Alexandra Pickerill lost to Laura Morrill & Emma Kudzin 3/6 1/6

Fitzwilliam win 5/4

Match Report

Fixture: IC of GB vs Public School Old Boys LTA

Result: IC of GB Won 6-3 

On Saturday 3rd August the IC of GB took on the Public School Old Boys (PSOBLTA) at Stoke Park. It was great to see a mixture of new and established names from both the I/C and PUBs teams faces playing in the fixture. Once again the fixture involved some high quality tennis, with the result going in favour of the I/C by 6 rubbers to 3. A number of matches were especially keenly fought, with the pick of the first round matches being a narrow win for the I/C first pair of Nathan Rooney and Simon Dickson over PUBS second pair James Marsalek and Tom Colautti to edge I/C into a 2-1 lead. The win for the I/C was sealed after another particularly high quality match in which the I/C pair of David Culshaw and Barney Smith edged out Marsalek and Colautti 6-3, 7-6. Despite a number of close results, all matches were played in good spirits and in such fantastic surroundings on the grass courts of Stoke Park.  Our thanks go out to Stoke Park for allowing us to use the venue once again for this fixture, for feeding and watering both teams and of course to all of those who played. Special thanks also go to Andrew Smith for being stand in photographer!

Results in full: (IC of GB team first)

Nathan Rooney & Simon DIckson beat Nick Nugent & Ben Draper 6-1 6-0

Nathan Rooney & Simon DIckson beat James Marsalek & Tom Colautti 5-7 7-6 10-6

Nathan Rooney & Simon DIckson beat Jamie Murihead & Nick Ames 6-1 6-1

Barney Smith & David Culshaw beat Nick Nugent & Ben Draper 7-5 7-5

Barney Smith & David Culshaw beat James Marsalek & Tom Colautti 6-3 7-6

Barney Smith & David Culshaw beat Jamie Murihead & Nick Ames 6-2 6-3

Hugh Jaques & Felipe Bunster lost to Nick Nugent & Ben Draper 2-6 1-6

Hugh Jaques & Felipe Bunster lost to James Marsalek & Tom Colautti 4-6 0-6

Hugh Jaques & Felipe Bunster lost to Jamie Murihead & Nick Ames 2-6 2-6

IC of GB v Yorkshire at Ilkley. 

The score ended up a draw 2-2. Match results as follows, IC names first.

Ian Blakeman/ Ashley Broomhead bt Andrew Hutchinson/ Paul Layfield 6-4 4-6 6-3
David Brown ( guest )/ Sarah Thomas lost Gareth Hutchinson / Karen Mitchell 4-6 4-6
Ian Blakeman / David Brown bt  Andrew & Gareth Hutchinson 6-3 7-6
Ashley Broomhead/ Sarah Thomas lost Paul Layfield/ Karen Mitchell 1- 6 5-7

The sun came out which made for a grass court contest in a closely fought match. Following the match drinks and dinner at The Fleece pub, Addingham.

The IC team of Jeff Hunter, Oscar Podlewski, Fergus O'Connell, Tim Matthewson, Matt Morrow, Sergey Yelnik and Mattis Wetzel won 7-2. The IC edged a hard fought singles round 4-2, before showing its doubles experience by winning all 3 doubles rubbers.

The match was played on grass at Iffley Road in Oxford. Our thanks go to the Oxford captain, Oliver Nunn, and his team for hosting us. 

GB v Ireland Results (IC of Ireland win 10 rubbers to 5)

Open Singles

Felipe Bunster v James Cluskey 6-1, 6-0 IRE

Morgan Dunne Ciaran Fitzgerald 6-2, 6-4 IRE 

Open Doubles

Felipe Bunster & Morgan Dunne v James Cluskey & Ciaran Fitzgerald 6-2, 6-1 IRE 

1st Round Seniors

Karen Cass & Judy Horn v Lesley O’Halloran & Carmel O’Hare 6-4, 6-4 IRE 

Siobhan Nicholson & Anne Clark v Joanne Murnaghan & Emma Doyle 6-4, 6-1 GB 

Dalton Odendaal & Raj Ranawat v Bryan Smyth & Brian Lawlor 6-2, 6-0 GB 

Anders Johansson & Peter Hannon v Bernard McCormack & Pat Guiry 6-3, 6-4 IRE 

2nd Round Seniors

Karen Cass & Judy Horn v Joanne Murnaghan & Emma Doyle 6-3, 5-7 (10-6) IRE 

Siobhan Nicholson & Anne Clark v Lesley O’Halloran & Carmel O’Hare 6-3, 6-1 IRE 

Dalton Odendaal & Raj Ranawat v Bernard McCormack & Pat Guiry 4-6, 6-3 (10-6) IRE 

Anders Johansson & Peter Hannon v Bryan Smyth & Brian Lawlor 4-6, 6-2 (10-6) GB 

Mixed Seniors

Siobhan Nicholson & Dalton Odendaal v Lesley O’Halloran & Bernard McCormack 6-3, 6-4 GB 

Judy Horn & Raj Ranawat v Carmel O’Hare & Pat Guiry 6-4, 3-6 (10-7) IRE 

Karen Cass & Anders Johansson v Joanne Murnaghan & Bryan Smyth 6-2, 4-6 (10-3) IRE 

Anne Clark & Peter Hannon v Emma Doyle & Brian Lawlor 6-3, 6-1 GB

AELTC vs IC of GB

19 July 2019

 

Melanie South & Georgie MacPhail        vs         Karen Hunter & Claire Haslett    AELTC 7-6 (4) 6-4

Sean Thornley & Rob Blythe                  vs        Alistair Filmer & Chris Clarke     AELTC 6-2 6-3

Melanie South & Sean Thornley             vs        Alistair Filmer & Claire Haslett    AELTC 6-3 6-3

 

4^th Rubber was a dead rubber due to Karen Hunter withdrawal

 

Rob Blythe & Georgie MacPhail             vs         Andy Kennaugh & Chris Clarke  IC 1-6 6-1 10-6

 

Match score 

AELTC 3           IC GB 0

 

The Royal IC of Belgium was once again the host of IC Council sponsored events, this time it was El Juego de Pelota (a repeat of 2 years ago) and La Carreta. 

El Juego was played for 2 men of 70+ and 2 men of 75+ playing one singles each and a doubles in each age group. La Carreta is for one woman of 50+ and one of 60+. Both GB teams had a reserve player with them, which proved a good move. The men’s team consisted of Norman Church, Mark Cox, Alan Purnell, Henk Nijeboer and Brian Snapes. The women’s team had Teresa Catlin, Marjorie Love and Dee Oakley. 

The women did very well in beating France 3-0 in the group stage with a particularly noteworthy win by Marjorie against Caroline Glaszmann by 10-5 in the third set champions tie-break. Belgium was also defeated 3-0 which meant that GB got through to play Germany in the final. This was always going to be a tough match and again Marjorie did very well, but lost by 10-4 in the third set tie-break. The German no. 1 Anke Wurst was too strong for Teresa, so GB finished honourably as runner-up having won the trophy in Heidelberg and Sofia before. 

The men had a close first match against Belgium with both 70s singles lost, but the vital 70s doubles was won by Alan and Brian by 10-5 in the third set tie-break ensuring a 4-2 win. Germany was defeated by 5-1 with only Alan’s single against Alex Kurucz going the other way. In the final GB lost against the reputable French team by 4-1 with only Mark winning his single against old nemesis Patrice Beust. The French team thus won the trophy for the third time running after Mexico in 2014 and Brussels in 2017. All three victories were with the same core of Michel Leclercq, Patrice Beust and Francois Pierson. 

The event was held at the marvellous Royal Tennis Club of Liege, no doubt one of the most beautiful clubs in Belgium. As always the warm hospitality of the Belgian IC under Michel de Marneffe knew no limits with excellent lunches every day, a BBQ at the club and two dinners in upmarket restaurants in and around Liege. We thank the Belgians for all their efforts. 

Photo albums can be seen on the website of the Belgian IC here

IC of GB President Mark Cox presented Sue Barker with the IC of GB Sportsmanship Award in the Last 8 Club on Thursday evening. There were a number of people present including Heinz Gunthardt who won The Junior Boys Singles at Roland Garros in 1976, the year that Sue won the French Open. Mark spoke very eloquently about Sue’s career both as a player and in broadcasting. Sue accepted the Award most graciously.. 

Sue reached a career-high singles ranking of world number 3, won 15 WTA singles titles and the French Open in 1976.

Venue:                 St. Georges Hill LTC

Surface:               Grass

 

 

Format:                2 pair 45+ and 2 pair 60+

Result:                 IC of GB lost 2 ½ to 5 ½  

 

This match has been running for over 60 years and continues to be played in a competitive but friendly spirit with many friendships being renewed on court and off court at dinner. 

Details of the pairings and results (IC of GB names are first):

45+

S. Leleu/A Boucher lost to G Neale/I Udale                              4/6 2/6

S. Leleu/A Boucher beat F Cordwell/T Ballardie                       6/3 6/1

 

A Blackman/S Morris drew with F Cordwell/T Ballardie            6/3 4/6

A Blackman/S Morris lost to G Neale/I Udale                            6/7 6/7

 

65+

R Drysdale/R Walmsley lost to C Gotla/R Wayman                 1/6 3/6

R Drysdale/R Walmsley drew with M Dawe/P French             2/6 7/6

 

A Alan/B Cuthbertson lost to M Dawe/P French                     3/6 5/7

A Alan/B Cuthbertson drew with C Gotla/R Wayman             2/6 6/4

 

 

The second leg of the trip for our pre-Wimbledon guests from Belgium and the Czech Republic took place on Friday 28^th June at St George’s Hill on the grass. Given that each team played different number of matches, the results were based on percentage of wins. The IC of GB won on the day, winning 71% of matches.

As always, St George’s Hill put on a lovely dinner in the Tarrant Room, which was attended by the new Club Chairman, Richard Foster. Special thanks to St George’s Hill for welcoming and hosting the IC teams and to visiting captains Fanda Stejskal and Robert Van Malder for contributing to a wonderful match.

GB – 71% (10 matches won from 14)

Czech Republic – 40% (4 matches won from 10)

Belgium  - 25% (2 matches won from 8)

Round 1

Ladies doubles: Diane Casteleyn & Eliane Moureau (Belgium) lost to Marie Pinterova-Neumanova & Iva Simunkova (Czech) 6-1 5-7 10-6

Ladies doubles: Toni Thompson & Ali Innes (GB) beat Sylva Stefkova & Eliska stejskalova (Czech) 6-1 6-0

Men’s doubles: Rudy Michielsen & Michael de Marneffe (Belgium) lost to Frantisek Stejskal sr & Petr Simunek (Czech) 6-1 5-7 10-6

Men’s doubles: Andras Pinter & Ladislav Tyra (Czech) lost to David Waite & Henk Nijeboer (GB) 6-1 6-0

Men’s doubles: Eric Lingg & Vicent Limauge (Belgium) beat Dan Lobb & Michael Gradon (GB) 6-4 6-4

Men’s singles: Patrick Bolle de Bal (Belgium) lost to Michael Appleton (GB) 6-2 4-6 10-2

Round 2

Ladies singles: Hana Guy (Czech) beat Chrissie Runnicles (GB) 7-5 6-2

Ladies doubles: Elisabeth Sliepen & Brigitte Bocken (Belgium) lost to Sue Hill & Dee Oakley (GB) 6-2 6-1

Ladies doubles: Gill Thompson (guest) & Toni Thompson (GB) beat Olga Merglova & Lucie Simunkova (Czech) 7-5 6-1

Men’s doubles: Robert Goethals & Robert Van Malder (Belgium) lost to Clive Hutchings & Benson Greatrex (GB) 6-3 7-6

Men’s doubles: Frantisek Stejskal jr & David Simunek (Czech) beat Paul Martin & Chris Clark (GB) 7-6 6-4

Round 3

Men’s singles: Frantisek Stejskal sr (Czech) lost to Henk Nijeboer (GB) 1-6 6-4 10-4

Men’s doubles: Rudy Michielsen & Robert Van Malder (Belgium) beat Clive Hutchings & David Waite (GB) 6-1 6-1

Ladies doubles: Marie Pinterova-Neumanova & Hana Guy (Czech) lost to Dee Oakley & Gill Thompson (GB) 6-4

Men’s doubles Ian Vasicka & Richard Trojan (Czech) lost to Benson Greatrex & Dan Lobb (GB) 6-1 6-2

Ladies doubles: Sue Hill & Chrissie Runnicles (GB) beat Iva Simunkova & Lucie Simunkova (Czech) 6-4 1-6 11-9

Round 4 – started but did not finish

Matches played IC of GB: 15 (winning % of 93%)

Matches played IC of Belgium: 11 (winning % of 45%)

Matches played IC of Czech Republic: 14 (winning % of 28%)

...............................................................................................................................................................................

Simon Dickson (GB) beat Frantiske Stejskal (Czech) 6-2

Hugh Jacques (GB) beat Eric Lingg (Bel) 6-3

Patrick Bol de Balle (Bel) beat Ian Vasicka (Czech) 6-2

Ali Innes & Teresa Catlin (GB) beat Hana Guy  & Olga Merglova (Czech) 6-2

Vincent Limauge & Robert Van Malder (Bel) beat Frantiske Stejskal & Ladislav Tyra (Czech) 6-3

Elisabeth Slipen & Brigette Broclen (Bel) beat Sylva Stefkova & Marie Pinterova (Czech) 6-3

Teresa Catlin & Mark Cox (GB) beat Eliane Moureau & Rudy Michielson (Bel) 6-1

Marie Pinterova &  Iva Simunkova (Czech) beat Brigette Broclen & Diane Casteleyan (Bel) 6-5

Jemina Hayward & Luisa Cowper (GB) beat Eliska Stejskalova & Sylva Stefkova (Czech) 6-1

Vincent Limauge & Eric Lingg (Bel) beat Micheal Gradon & Benson Greatex (GB) 6-0

Tony King & Phil King (GB) beat Robert Van Malder & Patrick Bol de Balle (Bel) 6-2

Nathan Rooney & Simon Dickson (GB) beat Frantiskek Stejskal Sen & Richard Trojan (Czech) 6-1

Luisa Cowper & Hugh Jacques (GB) beat Ali Innes & Ian Vasicka 6-2

Jemima Hayward & Micheal Gradon (GB) beat Eliska Stejskalova &Frantiske Stejskal (Czech) 6-2

Elisabeth Slipen & Robert Goethals (Bel) beat Ladislav Tyra & Marie Pinterova (Czech) 6-2

Alec & Mark Cox (GB) beat Frantiske Stejskal & Patrick Bol de Balle (Czech) 6-3

Benson Greatex & Teresa Catlin (GB) beat Hana Guy & Richard Trojan (Czech) 6-1

Iva Simunkova & Olga Merglova (Czech) beat Eliane Moureau & Brigette Broclen (Bel) 6-2

Michael Gradon & Alan Purnell (GB) beat Vincent Limauge & Michel De Marneffe (Bel) 6-2

Luisa Cowper & Tony King (GB) beat Jemina Hayward & Andrew Smith (GB) 6-4

Nathan Rooney & Ali Innes (GB) beat Ian Vasicka & Sylva Stefkova (Czech) 6-2

The IC managed to win a tightly fought contest against Cambridge University 6-5 on a sunny day at Fenner’s.

The run up to the match was plagued by injury and we were pleased that Jamie Muirhead and Harold Capkevics were able to step in last minute to help the team as guests. That continued throughout the day and both sides were happy to reduce the fixture from 12 matches to 11.

As always, the hospitality was strong and there was a high level of tennis played throughout. 

Finally, a special mention has to go to Mike Appleton who returned to play at Fenner’s for the first time since leaving Cambridge. He unfortunately lost his unbeaten record there but certainly gave the youngsters a run for their money!


Full match results below:

Oscar Podlewski bt Michal kaminski 6-4, 7-6
Dicky Wire bt James Shemilt 7-6, 6-3
Matt Kirby bt Salil Navapurkar 4-6, 6-2, 1-0 (10-5)
Jamie Muirhead lost to Finn Ranson 6-2, 2-6, 0-1 (8-10)
Mike Appleton lost to Jack Long-Martinez 4-6, 4-6
Rob Blythe lost to Aleks mardinian 2-6 rtd.

Dicky and Matt bt Salil and Michal 6-1, 6-3
Oscar and Mike lost to James and Jack 3-6, 3-6
Pieter Van Houten and Harold Capkevics bt Rob Legg and Aleks 4-6, 6-1, 1-0 (18-16)

Oscar and Jamie bt Rob L and Aleks 7-5, 6-3
Pieter and Harold lost to James and Jack 3-6, 1-6

On Sunday 30th June the IC of GB hosted the ICs of Belgium and Czech Republic at the Hurlingham Club, in the third and final fixture of their week as our pre-Wimbledon guests. 

The weather and playing conditions were perfect, as were the grass courts, and the match was played alongside the club’s annual Garden Party, which this year was even more spectacular than usual, with the club celebrating it’s 150th year. 

The IC of GB were victorious on the day, with some great tennis and fun had by all. The match was followed by a very enjoyable doubles exhibition between Joe Salisbury and Rajeev Ram, and John Peers and Henri Kontinen, and our visitors finished their trip at the first day of The Championships. 

Many thanks as always to all who played.

Results as follows: 

Roy Henderson & Peter Bretherton beat Andras Pinter & Frantisek Stejskal sr
Pauline Fisher & Anne Clark beat Diane Casteleyn & Eliane Moureau
Hugh Jaques & Alistair Filmer beat Frantisek Stejskal jr & David Simunek
Jo Shepherd & Kate Gowar beat Eliska Stejskalova & Lucie Simunkova 
Andrew Pisker & Paul Scullard beat Eric Lingg & Vincent Limauge 
Henk Nijeboer & Pauline Fisher beat Robert Van Malder & Brigitte Bocken
Iva Simunkova & Olga Merglova beat Karen Cass & Anne Clark
Michel de Marneffe & Elisabeth Sliepen beat Ladislav Tyra & Marie Pinterova-Neumanova
Alistair Filmer & Kate Gowar beat Fratisek Stejskal jr & Sylva Stefkova
Henk Nijeboer & Peter Bretherton beat Robert Goethals & Rudy Michielsen
Hugh Jaques & Jo Shepherd beat Ian Vasicka & Hana Guy (1 set played)

The IC’s Annual Ball was held in the magnificent surroundings of the Ball Room at The Grosvenor House Hotel. Drinks wiere served from 7:30 pm where the President and Mrs Susie Cox received members and their guests.

Impressionist and comedian Josh Berry performed some fantastic impressions of the likes of John McEnroe, Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray and Rafael Nadal to kick start the evening before dinner was served. Dancing and entertainment from the incredible Soul Brothers and DJ followed and kept members and guests dancing until the lights came on.

The guest of honour for the evening was 11 time Grand Slam winner and former world number 1 Rod Laver. Rod participated in a question and answer session after dinner with President Mark Cox, where they discussed Laver's introduction to tennis, his thoughts on the current players and his thought on Wimbledon. 

The IC of GB scored a stunning success to win the Wallenberg trophy in convincing style. This event, staged annually between the I/C's of GB, Germany, France and Sweden is one of the most prestigious and keenly fought in the I/C calendar. The host nation rotates each year with GB welcoming visiting teams to David Lloyd Dudley over the weekend of 27th and 28th April for the 2 day match.

The GB team; Teresa Catlin, Manisha Foster, Hugh Jaques and captain David Collins, started well by seeing off France 6-0 in the semi final,. Despite the scoreline there were some very close matches with Hugh squeezing through 11-9 in a final set tiebreak against Antoine Bernard and Manisha also winning 10-4 in the final set against Laure-Eline Faure. Sweden’s win against Germany ensured they would face GB in Sunday’s final. After treating the visiting IC teams to some truly British hospitality on Saturday night at a nearby vineyard, the stage was set for the showdown to decide the 2019  winners. Hugh & Manisha managed again to win both their singles and the mixed, powering GB into a 3-0 lead. The day was capped by a stunning win for David and Teresa against the Swedish pair of Maria Capistrano and former ATP top 20 player Henrik Holm, completing a 5-1 win for GB and securing their first Wallenberg trophy win since 2005.

Many thanks go to David Collins for organising a great weekend of tennis and fun for all and to the team at David Lloyd Dudley for allowing us to use their excellent indoor facilities

Venue: Real Club de Polo and Tennis, Barcelona, Spain

Men's Team Final Position: 5th

Women's Team Final Position: 3rd

Match report - MENS

by Men's Captain Nick Adams

The GB men’s team competed well at the 2019 Potter Cup and with a bit of fortune / results going their way could have ended up as finalists, or even winners. As it was we had to settle for 5th place with an opening loss to France followed by wins vs Spain B and USA.

In the first match against France, GB were 3-2 up after singles, but unfortunately lost 2 hard fought deciding championship tiebreaks in the doubles to lose 4-3. Seb Jackson won the match of the day, 7-5 in the 3rd vs the top French player, and there were also wins at 2 for Jeff Hunter and 5 for Nick Adams. With just one more day of red clay under the feet I’m sure we would have reversed the result.

On day 2 we beat a solid Spain B team 4-1, so no need for doubles, with Seb suffering at no 1 for his efforts on day 1 and all other team members winning their singles.

On the final day in the play-off for 5th place we played a team boasting Mickael Pernfors at no 3. We were again 3-2 up after the singles after wins from Seb, Jeff and Nick, and we managed to pick up the vital 4th rubber with a win at no 1 doubles for Seb and Nick, so a 4-3 victory overall.

The men’s event was won by the Irish who after being 3-2 up after singles were awarded both doubles matches as the French didn’t have the players to take to the court. It was a case of “what could have been” for the GB team.

Our team was strong this year, and there were perhaps 6 teams that were all well matched making the event very competitive. I would like to hope we can match the strength of this team next year, and if so think we have a good chance of being very competitive again.

The hospitality of both the Polo and the Real Clubs was again fantastic, with Berta Tintore working logistics to perfection.  The spirit between the men’s and ladies teams was great as always .

Match Report - LADIES

by Ladies Captain Leyla Ogan

As always, what a great weekend in sunny Barcelona playing at the beautiful clubs.

This year only 5 teams entered the ladies event. We were drawn against France first round and Jo Shepherd took the lead for team GB with some excellent clay court tennis. Jo toughed out a 3 set match against the experienced French clay court player

Teresa then secured the win for team GB and we were off to the pool for some afternoon relaxing. The timing worked out great, and we walked over to watch the men’s team battle it out in the doubles. 

Semi final day was always going to be tough for us. We know the Spanish girls well and have seen them compete many times in the world championships. Surprisingly they are even better on their red clay. However Jo and Teresa performed and competed well, they just lost to better players.

Myself and Teresa teamed up for the doubles and secured a win. This was the first time I’d competed this year since my stress fractures in November. I was happy to play, and even happier it was sunny!

On the final day we played Ireland in the 3/4 play off. Jo and Teresa won both their matches easily and GB came third for the third year running.

It was a great trip, as always. The tennis is the level of World Championships and we are given the best hospitality. The clubs are fantastic, we are spoilt all day and night.
The GB team as always competed hard on the court and had great bonding time with the men’s and ladies teams.

This is one of the best fixtures on the calendar

Thanks to everyone for all their support and communication in this event

Results in full

Womens:

Day 1: GB beat France 2-0

• Teresa Catlin beat M.Do Larras 6-4 7-5
• Jo Shepherd beat Chantal Grimal 3-6 6-3 6-2

Day 2: GB lost to Spain 2-1

• Teresa Catlin lost to Eva Bes 6-1 6-1
• Jo Shepherd lost to Noelia Perez 6-2 6-0
• Leyla Ogan/Teresa Catlin beat Gisela Riera/Nathalie Freixas 7-6(6) 6-3

Day 3: GB beat Ireland 2-0

• Teresa Catlin beat Lesley O’Halloran 6-2 6-0
• Jo Shepherd beat Carmel O’Hare 6-1 6-2

Overall position: 3^rd

Mens:

Day 1: GB lost to France 4-3

• Seb Jackson beat Stephane Grolier 4-6 6-1 7-5
• Jeff Hunter beat Olivier Cayla 6-3 6-4
• Andy Burgoyne lost to Nicolas Fourcade 4-6 5-7
• Ross Matheson lost to Olivier Bardet 4-6 4-6
• Nick Adams beat Laurent Schram 7-5 6-4
• Jackson/Burgoyne lost to Damiens/Fourcade 1-6 6-0 2-10
• Hunter/Matheson lost to Cayla/Deleval 3-6 6-2 6-10

Day 2: GB beat Spain 4-1

• Seb Jackson lost to David Pons 2-6 3-6
• Jeff Hunter beat Javier Moreno 4-6 6-0 6-1
• Andy Burgoyne beat Gerard Hausman 4-6 7-6(6) 10-3
• Ross Matheson beat Jordi Ahumada 6-1 6-2
• Nick Adams beat Sergio Palou 6-4 6-1

Day 3: GB beat USA 4-3

• Seb Jackson beat Mario Tabares 3-6 6-4 10-6
• Jeff Hunter beat Olivier Lorin 5-0 Ret
• Andy Burgoyne lost to Mikael Pernfors 0-6 0-6
• Ross Matheson lost to Tobias Svantesson 6-0 5-7 11=9
• Nick Adams beat Horacio Rearte 6-1 5-7 10-6
• Adams/Jackson beat Rearte/Tabares 6-3
•                              lost to Pernfors/Svantesson 6-7(4)

Overall position: 5th

Match Report GB WIN 12 - 8

Team – Mark Beim, Oscar Podlewski, Chris Hearn, Rupert North, James Turner, Mike Appleton, Henk Nijeboer, Clare Wood, Teresa Catlin

We returned to the prestigious Racing Club where we played the match on grass courts in an amazing setting. We had a full two days of excellent tennis played in a fun IC spirit.

Our GB players delivered on the low bouncing grass courts with extreme skill - even a few showers didn't put them off. The weekend was finished off with some excellent doubles play.

Captain Mark Beim wishes to credit goes to all his players who were ''a pleasure to be with. Thank you for playing''.

On Saturday evening there was a lovely dinner with excellent speeches from Clare Wood our IC Captain, who gave a personal and moving account of her fathers help in the Resistance.  

There were also entertaining speeches from Mark Beim, Thierry Pham and the IC Presidents of Uruguay and Argentina as well. At the closing presentation we also heard from 'the Rookies' of the team, Rupert North and Oscar Podlewski which were highly amusing.

The weekend finished with an amazing day at Roland Garros where the teams had the privilege of seeing Nadal and Djokovic up close behind the court only 10 feet away!

Thanks goes to our French friends once again who looked after us very well. We look forward to welcoming them back to our October fixture at Queens Club.

Results:

Matches were best of 3 short sets played with a tiebreak at 4 all.

Saturday, May 25, 2019

French names first

WS50    Sybille Niox Chateau Vs Teresa Catlin               1-4 3-5

MS55    Ollivier Lemal Vs Rupert North                            2-4 3-5

MS75    Bernard Detroye Vs Henk Nijeboer                     2-4 2-4

MS45    Laurent Schram Vs Chris Hearn                          4-1 4-1    

MS Open Axel Damiens Vs Oscar Podlewski                   1-4 4-1

MS40    Christophe Damiens Vs David Collins                 1-4  2-4

MS50    Jean Leclercq Vs James Turner                          4-1 1-4 5-4             

MS55    Philippe Pinet Vs Chris Hearn                             4-5 3-5

MS60    Francis Boyer Vs Mike Appleton                         2-4 2-4

MD60   Ghaleb-Lemal Vs North-Hearn                             2-4 3-5

Day 1:     France 2        GB 8

Sunday, May 26, 2019                                                                            

MD50   Bonicelli-Schram Vs Catlin-Hearn                        1-4 1-4

MS55    Jean Leclercq     David Collins                            2-4 0-4

MS55    Jean-Michel Hardouin Vs Rupert North               4-1 1-4 2-4

MS60    Luc Ghaleb Vs Mike Appleton                             5-4 4-2    

MS50    Laurent Schram Vs James Turner                       4-2 4-2    

MS55    Jérôme Vanier   Chris Hearn                                5-3 4-2    

MS70    Pierre-Hervé Gautier Vs Henk Nijeboer               4-0 4-1    

MD60   Renoult-Renoult Vs Appleton-Nijeboer                 3-5 4-0 5-4             

MD50   Boyer-Vanier     Appleton-Turner                          3-5 4-2 4-5

Day 2:        France 5     GB 4

Final Score:  France 7      GB 12

A team of 8 ladies headed up to Cambridge on Sunday for the fixture against a joint Oxford and Cambridge team. Unfortunately our string of luck with the weather came to an end this year with the players being unable to get on the grass and surviving a few rain breaks, however the match was still played with a great competitive spirit and was a thoroughly enjoyable day. It was great to have some of the players from the previous years returning to compete again this year.

The IC team came home with the trophy after a 7-1 victory. The team consisted of:

- Steph Cornish

- Manisha Foster

- Laura Morrill

- Amy Partridge

- Susie Dart

- Jo Shepherd

- Teresa Caitlin

- Annabel Watson

Just under 250 guests enjoyed the 2018 IC Ball at the Grosvenor House Hotel. 

The guests included the touring IC South American team from Argentina, Chile and Uruguay. Notable guests included Philip Brook Chairman of the All England Lawn Tennis Club accompanied by his wife Gill and Chairman of the IC Council Peter McQuibban with his wife Annegrethe plus many supporters of the IC.  

Mark Cox President of the IC of GB proposed the toast to the guests and covered a range of topics including 50 years of Open Tennis and the 150 Anniversary of the All England Club. Mark introduced Sergio Elias a member of the IC of Chile and of the South American team who are the IC of GB pre Wimbledon guests. Sergio is a well known Tennis Administrator and is currently an ITF main board member and he spoke most eloquently on behalf of the guests. 

Following the speeches Benson Greatrex presented the IC of GB Sportsmanship Award to Christine Janes. Christine said a few words of acceptance and related a couple of highly amusing anecdotes from her early days as a player. 

The Ball went well with an extremely good band providing the entertainment and the new venue proving to be a success.

Moor Park proved to be a wonderful venue for the annual IC Golf Day yet again. The weather was kind and the course was in excellent condition.  There was a scratch prize along with the usual team competition, individual stableford, nearest the pin and longest drive prizes.

Golf was followed by a fantastic three course dinner in the picturesque clubhouse, with prize giving by IC Captain Mark Beim.

Thank you to everyone for playing, our wonderful hosts at Moor Park and David Collins for organising another great event!

Winners

Ladies | Caroline Greatrex
Men’s | Freddie Menzies
Team | Julian Tatum, Freddie Menzies and Tony Billington
Longest Drive | David Collins
Scratch Prize | Keith Andrews
Nearest the Pin (10th hole) | David Waite
Nearest the Pin (18th hole) | Johnny Barr

Visiting Membership
Andrew Bray (Bermuda)

Young Associate Membership
Sasha Hill
Dan Martin
Destinee Martins
Oscar Weightman

13 - 14 January Francis Wallis Cup - Amsterdam - Susie Dart
3 February New Members' Dinner - Wimbledon Club - Katherine Laidler
15 April Over 30s vs Under 30s - National Tennis Centre - Barry Cowan & Philippa Coates
20 - 22 April - Wallenberg Trophy - Frankfurt - David Collins
25 April Annual General Meeting - The Hurlingham Club - Chris Gorringe
28 April Fitzwilliam Club - Dublin - Laura Peterzan
3 May IC of GB Golf Day - Moor Park - David Collins
5 May Oxford & Cambridge Universities (Ladies) - Fenners - Philippa Coates
15 May Bradfield College - Bradfield - Andrew Creighton
25 - 28 May IC of France - Paris - Mark Beim
2 June Oxford University (Men's) - Oxford - Tim Matthewson
31 May - 3 June Potter Cup (Men's) - Barcelona - Nick Adams
31 May - 3 June Potter Cup (Ladies) - Barcelona - Leyla Ogan
9 June Cambridge University (Men's) - Fenners - Rob Blythe
13 - 17 June 4 Nations Event - Prague - Jeremy Woods
27 June ICs of Chile, Argentina and Uruguay - The Edgbaston Priory Club - Bill Gowans & Andy Smith
29 June ICs of Chile, Argentina and Uruguay - St George's Hill - Chris Clarke
30 June IC Ball - The Dorchester - Karen Hunter
30 June IC Exhibition Match & Garden Party - The Hurlingham - Katherine Laidler
1 July ICs of Chile, Argentina and Uruguay - The Hurlingham Club - Kate Gowar & Katherine Laidler
18 July Seniors LTA of Great Britain (Men's) - St George's Hill - Boyd Cuthbertson
19 - 20 July Maharajah of Kutch - Moor Park - Benson Greatrex
20 July AELTC - Wimbledon - Karen Hunter
21 July IC of Ireland - Limpsfield LTC - Peter Hannon
11 August Public Schools Old Boys (Men's) - Stoke Park - Paul Siviter
12 August Harvard & Yale (Ladies) - Venue TBC - Cath Gunn
14 August Harvard & Yale (Men) - Roehampton - Richard Ground
25 August Yorkshire - Ilkley - Simon Ickringill
28 August - 2 September ICs of GB and Luxembourg vs Slovenia and Croatia - Prague - Andrew Page
22 September John Dunningham Trophy - National Tennis Centre - Chris Clark
5 - 7 October Puente Romano (Men's) - Marbella - Johnny Barr
6 - 7 October IC of France - AELTC / National Tennis Centre - Mark Beim
1 - 4 November Tennis/Golf - Mallorca - Shamus Donald
3 November IC Autumn Meeting - AELTC - Vicky Brook

Unfortunately this event has been cancelled.

Unfortunately the IC of GB was not able to send a team to this event.

Virginia Wade was presented the prestigious IC of GB Sportsmanship award in the Last 8 Club at the All England Club on Friday 14th July in recognition of 40 years since her victory at The Championships in 1977.

Dominic Inglot & Treat Huey beat Raven Klassen & Rajeev Ram 2-6 6-4 (10-4)

Canada and South Africa were our overseas guests at the 2017 IC Ball, which was once again held at The Dorchester Hotel on Park Lane.

Mark Cox delivered a very interesting speech and introduced guest of honour Butch Buchholz, one of the original 'handsome eight' - a core group of players who were instrumental in the transition of tennis from an amateur to professional game 50 years ago.

The evening concluded with music by the Kitts Band.

Our thanks to Karen Hunter for once again organising a wonderful occasion on the eve of The Championships.

Result: IC of GB 9 – 8 IC of Denmark
Venue: Moor Park

The visiting team from Denmark consisted of a number of ex Davis Cup players, an ex Federation Cup player, with all team members top players in their age groups, ably captained by Christian von Buchwald who was unable to take part in the match as he had had surgery on his hand 10 days previously. 

The challenge was set and we also fielded a very strong team, including Richard Wire, Chris Clarke, Cliff Bloxham, Michael Gradon, Alec Allen, Keith Bland, Mark Cox, Richard Tutt, Jo Shepherd, Karen Hunter, Matt Coombes, Chris Hearn, John Feaver, Sian Southwell-Sander, Anne Clark and an Honorary IC member for the day on the Sunday, Barry Fulcher.

With such a splendid venue as Moor Park and fantastic weather (nearly too hot!), it was impossible for the visitors and the GB team not to enjoy the weekend. The matches were extremely competitive with a very high standard of play.  Two of the Danish team lost their luggage on arrival at Heathrow so had the additional challenge of equipping themselves with new clothes and racquets.

Trying to match standards and ages wasn’t easy and after the first day the IC of Denmark took a well deserved lead of 6-3.  A dinner was held in the Thornhill room at Moor Park and guests could look around the Arnheim Room, depicted in the film “A Bridge Too Far”.

So, it was onto Day 2 with all to play for. The approach was to bring in some younger men who, despite still giving a few years away to their opponents, all won their singles.  As the Sunday was Father’s day and clashed with Aegon matches there was a shortage of ladies, so Anne found herself playing a ladies doubles with Sian in what ended up as one of the closest matches with the GB pair losing out 12-10 in the champions tie-break.

The last round saw 3 doubles wins for GB with the final doubles going to Denmark.

Many thanks to the staff at Moor Park who were very flexible, supportive and patient with the teams.

RESULTS

DAY 1

Round 1
Richard Wire & Chris Clarke beat Christian Mikkelson & Peter Knap 6-3, 6-2
Jo Shepherd lost to Maria Rasmussen 3-6 5-7

Richard Tutt & Mark Cox lost to Kasper Rud 2-6 7-5 0-1 (8)

Alec Allen & Cliff Bloxham lost to Steen Dannisguaard & Stein Ulrich 2-6 3-6

Round 2
Keith Bland & Michael Gradon lost 0-6 2-6

Karen Hunter & Ciff Bloxham lost to Tine Petersen & Kai Folmer 3-6 3-6

Richard Wire beat Christian Mikkelson 6-2 6-2

Richard Tutt & Anne Clark lost to Maria Rasmussen & Steen Dannisguaard 0-6 2-6

Alec Allen & Mark Cox beat Stein Ulrich & Kasper Rud 6-2 7-6

DAY 2

Round 1
Barry Fulcher beat Alexander Reedtz 6-4 6-2

Matt Coombes beat Kai Folmer 6-4 6-3

Chris Hearn beat Stein Ulrich 6-3 6-1

Anne Clark & Sian Southwell-Sander lost to Maria Rasmussen & Tine Petersen 6-3 4-6 0-1 (10)

Round 2
Barry Fulcher & Matt Coombes beat Alexander Reedtz & Steen Dannisguaard 6-2 6-7 (5) 1-0 (5)

Chris Hearn & Mark Cox beat Kai Folmer & Stein Ulrich 6-3 5-7 1-0 (7)

Alec Allen & Richard Tutt beat Peter Holst & Kasper Rud 6-1 6-4

Round 3
John Feaver & Richard Tutt lost to Peter Knap & Stein Ulrich 2-6 2-6

Over 50 members gathered at The Hurlingham Club for the International Club of Great Britain's Annual General Meeting to hear reports from the Chairman, David Waite, the Honorary Secretary, Boyd Cuthbertson, and the Honorary Treasurer, Alan Purnell.

The meeting was followed by dinner and a splendid speech delivered by Benson Greatrex, recognising David Waite's enormous contribution to the IC after stepping down as Chairman after a decade of selfless service. Benson Greatrex, a long standing committee member was warmly welcomed as the new IC Chairman.

The minutes of the meeting will be published in the member's section of the website when complete.

The IC of GB are delighted to offer you the opportunity to buy Official IC Nike Team Kit from our new supplier, Lester Bowden. We have introduced men's and ladies DRI-FIT performance shirts, as well as a men's cotton polo.

We'd love to see as many of you as possible wearing the shirts when representing the Club.

The process for ordering couldn't be easier - simply click here to order online.