30 March 2012 / Categories: Recent Results and Events, 2012 IC of Uruguay celebrates 30th Anniversary March 2012 The event was played at the lovely Hotel Del Lago on their excellent red clay courts. The hotel is situated about 12 miles from the very popular resort of Punta Del Este. Players from GB, Argentina, Brazil, Germany, Luxembourg, Netherlands, United States, Uruguay, participated in a men's doubles tournament with different age groups. We were represented by Mike Dawe and Richard Wayman in the 50 age group, Roy Henderson (captain) and Simon Partridge in the 60 age group. Our president Barry Weatherill was asked to play in the 70 age group. Not all countries were able to supply enough players, so some players from different countries were paired together, and this format worked very well. Mike and Richard won the 50 age group beating Henri Reiter of Luxembourg and L Medus of Argentina 11- 9 in tie break 3rd set having saved a match point, an excellent performance. Roy and Simon having won their group matches, lost in the semi final of the 60 age group. Barry lost in final stages of the 70 age group with Argentine partner Jorge Esponda. Our hosts from the IC of Uruguay went out of there way to make our stay a memorable one. The welcome Cocktail Party was very special, with a wonderful demonstration of Tango dancing. Richard was invited onto the floor to show his skills, we were all inspired by the footwork of the dancers, and Richard took his inspiration onto the court for the final with great speed across the net! The farewell dinner was another lovely evening, with Julio Lacarte President IC of Uruguay expressing his obvious joy that so many players had come from far and wide to take part in this celebration tournament, to which Barry Weatherill President of the IC Council responded on behalf of us all. On behalf of the IC of GB we presented an engraved Salver to Julio Lacarte to mark the occasion. This was a large event to manage, and one person in particular took on a huge amount of work to make sure it was a success. Mr Jean Paul Brisson was always there to deal with any questions we had, and always had time and a smile for everyone who needed his help. The decision was taken, having discussed this with Barry that we should make him an honorary member of the IC of GB and he was presented with his tie. I was surprised and very honoured to be made an Honorary member of the IC of Uruguay. My thanks to the team for all their support, and good company, and a special thank you to Beverley Wayman, for being at court side for every match and taking so many photos. Following this event, a small tournament took place in Buenos Aires, run by the IC of Argentina, to which Mike had more success winning the doubles event in his age group, partnering Henri Reiter, well done Mike! The rest of us spent a few days at Iguazu Falls and Buenos Aires before returning home. A memorable trip indeed. Roy Henderson Previous Article March 2012 Newsletter Next Article IC of GB Match vs. Fitzwilliam Print 4718