SENIORS ACT INC SUMMER ISSUE DECEMBER 2019

PREFACE World Titles Venue for 2021

VETSET is the newsletter of Tennis Sen- ACT had three representatives in Aus- Will this be the headquarters for the iors ACT Incorporated. However the tralian teams at the Super Senior 2021 Australian Team Carnival and views expressed in the newsletter are not World Titles. Although they didn’t Individuals Championships. necessarily those of the committee. come home with gold they all came Membership fees for 2019/20 were due away enjoying the experience. on 1 July - only $20. For new members They have reported on their exploits, the fee is $10 from January to June 2020. each from different perspectives. To A membership form can be found on the see the reports turn to pages 4,5 and 6. website. 9 A report on the Australian team and The 2019/20 Committee comprises: individual performances can be found President on page 8. Although no team won Graham Smith (6161 5352) medals all bar one of the Australian th th teams finished between 4 and 6 . Vice President Pat Moloney (6262 3727) The individual events were a different story. Australians won 10 gold med- Secretary als. See the News Flash in the Presidents Warren Muller (0407 916 868) Report on page 2.

Treasurer Peter Breugelmans (6258 4261) Walk of Fame TACT Awards

Committee Tennis ACT inducted two more peo- ple into their Walk of Fame at their Tennis ACT held its 2019 Awards John Greenup (6254 5263) function in September. Pat Moloney Tim Harris (6231 3642) Awards function. was named the Most Outstanding 35+ Colin Lyons (0434 531 449) The first one was the tennis player Tennis Senior,. At the time he was over Barbara McCluskey (6241 4402) pictured below playing on the tennis in Umag with the Australian Bitsy Robert Pragt (6242 6897) court probably on a farm. The sec- Grant team at the World Titles. ond one was more known as an ad- Bronwyn Thomas (0410 730 808) TACT then nominates the winner for Sue Willis (0434 982 924) ministrator than a player. the Tennis Australia award which is Website: www.tennisseniors.org.au/act To find out more, turn to page 7 presented at the Newcombe Medal Presentation.

Good luck Pat Inside Page President’s Report 2 Christmas Dinner 2 WA 2020 3 2019 ACT Resident Next Sunday Tournament 3 Championships Bitsy Grant and the World Titles 4 (includes Seniors events) Wives and World Titles 5 Photos on Line 5 13-15 December My First World Titles 6 TACT Walk of Fame and Awards 7 Mixed doubles 2019 World Titles 8 13 December 2020 World Titles Dates/Locations 8 after 5.30pm Sunday Round Robins 9 Singles and Doubles NSW State Championship 9 14 and 15 December Victorian State Championships 9 TSQ Tewantin 9 Another Accolade for Entries online close Seniors Tournament Results 10-11 Ken Willis on 4 December 2019/20 ACT Calendar 12 As reported by the Canberra Times the 2020 Tournament Calendar 12 late Ken Willis will join the ACT Sport Further information and Kiama Seniors Results 12 Hall of Fame as an associate member entries online at on November 29. www.tournaments.tennis.

Closing date for March Vetset This is not for his tennis ability but for com.au Monday 10 February 2020 his achievements as an administrator. [email protected] President’s Report by Graham Smith

is heating up. 2019 is coming to a close, so welcome to our last Vetset for 2019. This year Tennis Seniors ACT was

The Christmas Dinner is being held at well represented in the Australian the Yowani Golf club on 14th December teams. Ros Balodis was selected in 2019 6.45pm for 7.15pm start. Please the women’s 60s team with three la- advise me if you are going to attend by dies from Victoria. They travelled to 4th December phone 0407208209 Portugal and the team finished in [email protected] fourth place. Ros and Peter Hampton from New Zealand won the mixed NEWS FLASH ; Tennis Seniors ACT doubles. Well done to Ros. Christmas were informed by Tennis Seniors Aus- tralia on the 19 November 2019 that Sue Willis replaced an injured Helen Dinner ACT Seniors would be holding the Holcombe in the Women’s 65s, John 2021 Teams Carnival and Individual Stark replaced an injured Neville Rod- 6.45 for 7.15pm Events in late January 2021 as Tasma- well in the men’s 70s and Pat Molo- nia didn’t respond by the deadline date. ney was selected in the men’s 75s. Saturday We will be looking for volunteers and They all travelled to Croatia and it was an exciting time checking their 14 December local clubs to provide the use of their courts again. We will only have a short results each day. Pat’s and Sue’s teams came in 5th While John’s team YOWANI time to get everything organised. th finished 15 . COUNTRY CLUB Over the past year many of our mem- bers have travelled far and wide chasing Tennis Seniors ACT have four ladies 455 Northbourne Ave, their pots of gold in NSW, Queensland teams and four men’s teams travelling to Busselton in January for the Annual Lyneham and Victoria and overseas to represent ACT Seniors and Australia. We contin- Teams Carnival. Three of the men’s Pre-dinner drinks will be ue to see great results and many of our teams are made up of players from other states. The committee wishes available from 6.45pm players are gaining confidence and ex- perience as well as making new friend- all teams the best of luck in Busselton Lucky door prizes ships. WA and to all our players who are playing in the Individual events in $45 per person Our local International Tennis Federa- week two we hope you have much (payable on the night) tion (ITF) Easter Tournament is the success. highlight of .our year attracting players This year we sadly said goodbye to Presentation of from all states of Australia and some the Frank Thornton overseas players and I encourage you more of our former and current mem- all to participate and keep this event a bers –Douglas Hort, John Peck, Roger Player of the Year success for us. 2020 will be the 50th Allnutt, Betty Jennings, Bruce Pod- and year for our Easter Tournament so hop- more, Graeme Larmour, John South- George Henshilwood well. and Ken Wells. ing to see a bigger entry for this tourna- Award ment as we plan to make it a special Once again John Greenup has done an and occasion. We need everyone to organ- amazing job in producing Vetset over the Venezuela Cups ise their partners and play next Easter the past year. Thank you John. so we can celebrate. Tables of 8 In concluding I would like to thank Monthly social tournaments are still the committee and everybody who has Contact Graham Smith happening. Players are now rewarded helped out in some way to make our with a point score playing system for events run smoothly during 2019. I ph 61615352 or the most weeks attending. At the end of greatly appreciate the support I have mobile 0407 208 209 the year points are tallied up and the around me in keeping seniors tennis a or email winner and runner-up will receive Ven- great way to health and relationships . [email protected] ezuela Cups. Colin Lyons and Warren On behalf of the committee I wish all Muller have continued to run these Names and any dietary members and families a Merry Christ- monthly tournaments attracting some requests to Graham mas and a Happy New Year 2020 new and current members. Competition by Wednesday 4 December

U&Co Café

Unit 7 Gwydir Square, Ka- leen 2617 ph 6241 1100 www.uandcocafe.com.au

Great coffee, great food, come along and try it

Page 2 WA 2020 Sunday Round Robin Tournament

First for 2020

9.15am Sunday 16 February

Venue to be advised

Entry fee is $10.00

Entries to Colin Lyons on 0434 531 449 or [email protected] or Warren Muller on 0407 916 868 or The 2020 Australian Seniors Tennis W60 [email protected] Teams Carnival and Individual Cham- Lynette Sebbens (c) pionships are in Busselton, Western Peta Hoff Australia in 2020. The Teams Carnival Margi Sellwood will start on Sunday 5 January (practice Thelma Winroe and opening ceremony) and end on Fri- Karen Jameson day10 January. The Individual Cham- M55 pionships will run from 12-17 January. Tim Harris (c)

ACT Team Dinner (Confirming de- Miroslav Pisa tails) Grant Woodbridge Date: Tuesday 7 January 2020 Jim Creedon (WA) Time: 7:30pm Georgio Delsanto (WA) Peter Maccora (WA) Location: Esplanade Hotel, Busselton Address: 30/38 Marine Terrace, Bussel- M60 ton Ross Findlay (c) Cost: $45 per person (payable on arri- Con Kounnis val) + cost of drinks Brian Campbell

Teams Nominated Trevor Weinert (SA) Vas Socratous (VIC) The following teams have been submit- ted for the Seniors Teams champion- M65 ships in Busselton 5-10 January 2020. Greg Holcombe They are yet to be graded: Graham Smith (c) Graeme Rossiter W45 Anthony Connell Joanne Adams (c) Graeme Ainsworth Louise Scrivener Rochelle Moore M70 Karen McLennan Don Masters Cathie Long (NSW) Warren Muller Bob Morgan (NSW) (c) W55 Joe Zucher (NSW) Rebecca Claremont Alan Sacks (NSW) Ros Balodis David Jones (NSW) Sue Willis Leonie Ainsworth (c) In addition, Mark Hardy is a member Beverley Roberts of a Vic/ACT team and Pat Moloney Christine Jarrett is a member of a WA/ACT team.

W60 Betty Smith (c) Marilyn Walter Daphne Kennedy Graeme and Leonie Andrea Sheather Ainsworth and Daphne Karenn Layne Kennedy all thinking Rosa Cotta about the trip to WA in January

Guess who picked up their new vehicle and now can’t stop smil- ing. Will it get to tennis tourna- ments far and wide or just stay home

Is it a Commodore or a Winneba- go?

Page 3 Bitsy Grant and the World Titles by Pat Moloney

The 2019 Super Seniors World Cham- won Wimbledon as a wildcard in team members watched and supported pionships were held in Umag Croatia in 2001 beating our Patrick Rafter in the all matches. A café was found close September. I was fortunate enough to final. by where, after our matches, we re- be selected to wear the Green and Gold The area around the centre is tennis laxed with a quite drink and discussed to represent Australia in the Mens 75+ the tennis. focused as can be seen by the photo of Bitsy Grant Cup. There were 18 na- a roundabout with a tions competing for the Bitsy Grant sculpture of tennis Cup. Overall the Championships com- balls in the rounda- prised 132 teams from 30 nations. bout.

Now before I get onto the Tennis, a bit Now to the tennis. of history and geography. When selected I was People have asked me who was Bitsy No 3 in the team. Grant? Bitsy Grant was an American However our No 2 whose full name was . He had to withdraw be- was the smallest American man to win fore leaving and so I a championship on the international was promoted to No tennis circuit. He beat great players 2 and played all the like and Elleworth Vines singles. Our team and earned the nickname Bitsy due to was Alan Walsh his size. He was twice a quarter finalist (NSW and captain), at Wimbledon and twice a semi finalist myself, Hayden Rees at the US open. He also played Davis (Vic) and Kevin Cup for America. Bradley (Qld), a mixed bunch. Grant continued to compete as a senior In the individual tournament, the sec- winning many US titles in the 45, 55, Our competition comprised 6 round ond week, I was a little unwell and and 65 age groups. He died in 1986 robin groups of 3 from which the win- lost easily in the first round to a previ- aged 76 and was inducted into the Inter- ners advanced to the knockout stage. ous Italian winner. However I did national Hall of Fame in 1972. Australia was seeded 5. We were manage, with good partners, to reach favoured by a good draw and finished Umag is the most western city of Croa- th the quarter finals of the mixed and tia and is located on the coast of the the competition in 5 place. The men’s doubles where we lost to the Istria peninsula and looks out over the weather was great, nice and warm and number 4 and number 2 seeds. We Adriatic Sea. To reach Umag the con- no rain. The courts were European had good matches but our opponents venient way was to fly into Trieste clay which is an experience to play on were too strong. Our doubles quarter (Italy) from where the ITF supplied, at particularly against the European final match was played in the main cost, a bus to Umag. The bus journey players. Not many outright winners centre stadium with an electronic takes approx 1.5 hours and travels just long rallies and chasing drop scoreboard and streamed live. Unfor- through Italy, Slovenia (passport con- shots which the Europeans are expert tunately the scoreboard listed the at playing. match as an 80 age group, close trol) and Croatia. A team member, Hayden Rees, a long time tennis friend Our first match was against Norway enough! arranged an airbnb for both of us in lieu which we won 3-0. I won 6-0, 6-4 and Overall it was a very enjoyable two of the expensive official hotels. This got away with serving and volleying weeks and a learning experience to worked out very well. the first set but had to battle in the play European clay.

second set as the balls lost their pace The Championships played at Umag I would like to thank Tennis Seniors were played over 6 centres, some within and the rallies got longer. I also played the doubles with my many ACT for their support and encourage- walking distance some not. Fortunately ment. our matches were within a short walk at years ago doubles partner Hayden one location. The main centre was Rees and we won 6-3 6-0. Our sec- called the Goren Ivanisevic Stadium ond match was against Denmark after the Croatian tennis player who which we won 3-0. I had a tougher match winning 6-4, 6-3, more long rallies. We lost our quarter final match to a strong Germany team 3-0. I got a real claycourt lesson in losing 6-3, 6-1 to the world ranked No 9 German player. Our last playoff match was for 5th spot against Italy which we won 3-0. I had a long match against the World ranked No 15 Italian eventually winning 2-6, 6-4, 6-4. My claycourt game was improving.

Overall the team was very supportive of each other. All Page 4 Wives and World Titles by John Stark

My wife Helen and I travelled to Umag 4 made our job of gaining a relative Our last play off match of the week was in Croatia during September because I high placement at the end of the com- against Austria. This was a match we was a late selection in the Australian petition more difficult, but that is the were all very keen to win, particularly way it goes! 70s team to compete in the World Super after our close loss to Norway the previ- Seniors Tennis Tournament. I was a We played the USA first up (always a ous day. Ray played the No2 singles late selection because another ACT tough match) and lost 3-0 but my and lost and the Roger played No1 sin- player, Neville Rodwell, had to with- partner in the doubles, Rob Bickmore gles and won comfortably. This meant draw from the team because of a persis- (SA) and I managed to take a set off Rob and I had to win the doubles to win tent shoulder injury . This was very the American pair, so were fairly the tie. “No Pressure!!”. GULP!! unfortunate for Neville as he would pleased with that. We started off scratchily and lost the have played very well on the clay courts first set. We then managed to win the of Croatia. Hopefully he will get anoth- Our next match was against Ireland where we shared the singles rubbers second set. Time for the Super Tie er opportunity to play for Australia next Break to 10. In a very see-sawing tie year. (our No2 player, Rob Bickmore, lost a 4 hour match) which meant we had to break we got to about 7 all and I was at Helen and I left Canberra on a direct win the doubles match to win the the net. I was the then presented with flight (highly recommended) with Qatar whole tie. Fortunately Ray West and an absolute sitter smash to make it Airways to Doha and then on to Venice. I managed to win to give Australia the match point. I completely stuffed it and We then picked up a bus from Venice victory. put it in the bottom of the net. that took us directly to the hotel in Um- Our last match in the group was A disturbing thing then happened. I ag. When we arrived at the hotel we heard concerned noises from our sup- were met by Roger Davey (SA) and against a very “excitable” Italian team. They were a very good team port group and then someone saying Ray West (QLD). It was great to see F….K. That someone was Helen!! them again as Neville and I both played and played excellent clay court Tennis to beat us 3-0. Luckily I react to pressure well (why with Roger and Ray in a previous Aus- did I just hear scoffing noises from my tralian team 9 years ago. Wednesday was our rest day so our Tennis friends) and hit winners on 3 of We settled into the hotel and then had whole team (all 8 of us) hired a driver the next 4 points to win the match for dinner that night with our 70s team. and mini bus and did some exploring Australia. We were very fortunate that all our of the Croatian coast. We had a very enjoyable day and got down as far as When I found out it was Helen who wives decided to come with us and be dropped the f-word I was quite encour- great supporters and generally enjoy the Rovinja, a very beautiful coastal town. aged because it meant that Helen had trip. I think we were the only team to got emotionally involved in the match, have that full support from our partners On Thursday we had a play off match which is not always the case with her. and it really did add to the enjoyment against Norway, which we lost but for our team. with a bit of luck could have won. Anyway that was the week’s Tennis and a very enjoyable week it was. Hel- Helen and I arrived in Umag on Thurs- Roger Davey, our No1 player, won his singles in straight sets and then en and I then spent about 10 days ex- day evening and after a couple of days ploring Northern Italy and Slovenia practice we played our first match on Rob Bickmore had another very long 3 set match in which, I think, he had before flying home. Sunday. There were 19 teams in the 70s competition which meant we had 5 one match point before just losing. I would like to thank Tennis Seniors groups of 3 and 1 group of 4. We were This meant that Ray West And I had ACT for their financial support in help- placed in the group of 4 with the USA, to win the doubles. Unfortunately Ray ing me get to this competition. Italy and Ireland. Being in the group of and I couldn’t do it this time, losing a close match in 2 sets. Photos on line

Greg Parkin accompanied his wife, Sue Willis on this trip to the World Titles thoroughly enjoying the experience. With his new camera and the reawakening of his hobby of photography, he took many photos of the Australi- an players in action for the ITF.

If interested, photos can be ac- cessed through the Facebook page he developed at: ‘Facebook.com/Oz.Umag.18’. (Facebook added the 18 for their indexing).

The Australian Kitty Godfree Cup team sharing a drink with the Great Britain after their final teams match

Page 5 My First World Titles from Sue Willis

When we arrived at the Hotel Sipar in The Teams Event in three sets. Umag, Croatia, I asked my husband: The teams event was fantastic. How To conclude the week, we shared a “Where’s James Bond?” I thought I lovely it was to exchange gifts with was on a film set! drink with our opposition. As well as t the opposition before we started play- tennis we discussed all of the problems On 13 September, we arrived at the ing! of the world! Brexit of course was hotel in Croatia. It was like a Mediter- Our first match was against Poland raised and we thought we would leave ranean oasis. I thought even if I did not and. our No 1 Adrienne Avis and No that problem to Boris! get a game of tennis, I could happily sit 2 Helen Worland won their singles in a deck chair and stare out to sea...... The Individuals convincingly. With having won the with a glass of wine of course! After 32 match, our generous spirited captain The individuals started the following hours of travel time to get there, a deck suggested that Sue Walter and I play day. After being cleaned up in the first chair looked inviting! My husband, the doubles. Sue and I managed to round of the singles, I played in the Greg and I had travelled with fellow have a win to make it a 3 rubbers to 0 consolation event. I was fortunate to team member, Helen Worland and two win. win two rounds to reach the semi-finals other players, Pam Crawford (Tumut) before being knocked out. and Gail Windsor (Bathurst) who were Our next match was against Argenti- The highlight of the week was being participating in the individuals. na. Again, our ladies won their sin- gles in straight sets. Sue Walter and I drawn to play on the Goran Ivanisevic However, on arrival, there was no time play the doubles pair, Patricia court and having an umpire. Before the for sitting in deck chairs. Our captain, Candegabe and Maria Cristina Puebla. match, I let the umpire know that I was Adrienne Avis cracked the whip and We had a great game!. We lost the from Canberra (the same city as Nick had us straight onto the court familiaris- first set 6-0! Ouch! In the second set, Kyrgios) and he then said he felt very ing ourselves with the ATP Centre’s we were 5-4 down and had 5 match nervous!!! You will all be pleased to clay. The ATP Centre was a conven- points against us! Somehow, we hung know, I did behave! ient 10 minutes walk from our Hotel. in there to win the set 7-5! Never say Touring die!! With a sigh of relief and a new The claycourt centre is also used for the With the tennis behind us, we spent the spring in our steps, we won the third Open ATP Tour which began in 1990. last 10 days on a local tour down to the Marin Cilic became the second home- set 6-2. Adriatic coast with Gail and Pam.. We grown champion since Goran Prpic. We were thrilled with our win despite started in Zagreb, with a few days of The tour helped to establish Umag as a ageing at least another 20 years with relaxation before setting off on a crack- symbol of high-quality Croatian tour- the pressure! Our opposition knew ing pace with one night at each stop ism. As a place to visit, it certainly was that they had choked. However, what down the coastline. It was so pictur- geared for tourism and the shopkeepers wonderful sportsmanship they dis- esque. What a coastline!! It was cer- were very welcoming when you said played at the end. We all shook tainly bucket list material! you were a tennis player! hands, smiled and laughed about the Lake Bled (famous for its cake... ebbs and flows of the match. We all I was originally selected as a reserve for mmmm) was one of our most impres- took more photos and agreed that the the team. However, Helen Holcombe sive stops with its castle and glasslike tennis was wonderful and so close! had to withdraw from the selected team lake! Dubrovnik was also a standout with an injury. With Helen’s track rec- What a match! with the highlight of the Old Town. It ord as the 2018 world 65 doubles Our third day ended in disappoint- was hard to believe that in the war be- champion, I knew the shoes I had to fill ment. We played Germany. Unfortu- tween 1992-95 there was so much de- would be far too large!. However, I nately, our big guns had very close struction and loss which is still very was pleased to make up the numbers three set match losses in their singles, evident. However, fortunately much of and would do my best ...... and certainly despite battling hard. Sue and I play it has been restored to its original state. enjoy myself! the doubles but this time our track I could not believe the number of tour- The Opening Ceremony on the Satur- record of wins was broken. We went ists in Dubrovnik, despite the fact that it day took place on centre court. It was a down in straight sets. All four of us was the end of the season. moving ceremony and you could tell went back to the Hotel with our tail Thank you how proud all of the players felt, between our legs! A good medicinal dressed in their uniforms to represent wine or two was in order that evening Finally, thank you to all of those play- their respective countries. It was lovely to help us drown our sorrows! ers who have encouraged me to get back on the court and to those who I to have two other Canberrans participat- After the disappointment of Day 3, it ing – Pat Maloney and John Stark. play with on a regular basis! was Australia versus France and we There was so much excitement at the were determined to win. As we need- Thank you also to Tennis Seniors Aus- ceremony, and afterwards, players re- ed the big guns, I was the water and tralia and Tennis Seniors ACT for their newed their friendships over a glass of coffee woman! With Adrienne nurs- support. champagne! ing a sore knee, Helen and Sue Walter To conclude, when playing in Umag, on At the time, I thought what a wonderful played the singles and paired up to a beautiful day, I commented to a wom- sport tennis is in bringing so many peo- win the doubles for a convincing 3-0 an on the court next door about how ple together in one place and to share victory. This victory meant that we th lucky we were to be playing at our age such a strong bond of this game we all were then in the play-off for 5 place and enjoying this wonderful sport. She love. I could not believe how fit some against the Brits!! responded by saying that a friend of of the players looked, particularly the It was again a tough match! With a hers said to her recently “It is a privi- 85 plus team, and felt pleased I was not rubber all after the singles, Sue and lege to miss a ball!’ I could not agree playing up in that age group! Helen combined to win their doubles more!!!!

Page 6 TACT Walk of Fame and Awards

The Tennis ACT Awards for 2019 were Peter Roberts Graham Bartlett AOM announced and presented at a function at the Bradman Pavilion, Manuka Oval on 14 September.

Pat Moloney was named the Most Outstanding 35+ Tennis Senior, Pat is a Canberra icon in the tennis community. He has been a long time member, player, administra- tor and mentor with Tennis Sen- iors for decades. The Canberra community is grateful for Pat’s contribution, commitment and passion for our game.

TACT has nominated Pat for the Tennis Australia Award. Pat has made the final three. The winner will be announced on 2 December at the Newcombe Medal Presenta- tion Dinner.

Peter Roberts and Graham Bartlett were inducted into the Tennis ACT Walk of Fame. Established in Peter recorded an outstanding playing 2016, the Tennis ACT Walk of Fame record between the 1940’s to 60’s. honours those whose exceptional con- He was the winner of seven ACT Res- Graham has been inducted for his tribution has brought recognition and ident singles, nine doubles, and two lengthy administration contribution at esteem to them and to tennis in the Aus- mixed titles. He played against the both a club and association level. A tralian Capital Territory. The pair join likes of , , Secretary at Forrest Tennis Club for 33 previous inductees, , Keith , , Frank years and President for three, the club- Carnall, Ken Willis, Alison Ide, Ros Sedgman, and . house is named in his honour. Balodis, Charles Boag and Bruce Lark- Peter was an outstanding sportsman, Graham also played a huge role as the ham. competing against not only some of Treasurer of the ACT Tennis Associa- Colin Adrian, a Director of the Tennis Australia’s greatest tennis players, but tion from 1956 to 1962, then Secretary ACT Board outlined the contribution he also played against world champi- from 1963 to 1970. He also served on that Peter and Graham made. ons in three other sports; Walter Lin- the board of the National Sports Club at drum in billiards, Hashim Khan in Lyneham. He was one of the founding The material on Peter and Graham has squash and Michael Szabados in table members of ACT Veteran’s tennis and been drawn from a TACT news release tennis. was tournament director of the ACT “Roberts and Bartlett inducted into His daughter, Jenny was there to ac- Open for 12 years. Walk of Fame” dated 14 September cept the award on Peter’s behalf. Pe- 2019 Graham died in 2014. Two nephews ter was in a nursing home. accepted the award on behalf of the family.

Greg Parkin and Sue Willis on the walk way between the hotel and From left to right Sue Willis, Pam Crawford, Greg Parkin and Gail ATP Centre, Umag Windsor having pre dinner drinks in Dubrovnik. It’s a hard life.

Page 7 Seniors Tennis Changes for 2Seniorsnges for 2020 and 2021 2019 World Titles Young Seniors Super Seniors

High humidity and rain delays played Destiny once again beckoned nations their part in the first week of Young for the latest instalment of the ITF Seniors World Championships action at Super-Seniors World Team Champi- Miami’s Flamingo Park Tennis Centre. onships on the clay courts of Umag, Many teams saw their ties crammed Croatia. into late afternoon sessions once the rain had passed. These Championships From 15-21 September 132 teams from 30 nations were on show in Cro- were held over two weeks from 20 Oc- Call Robert Pragt on 0402 334215 tober to.2 November. atia’s westernmost city. As was the case 12 months ago, USA were the if you care about your dog The Teams Championships were domi- dominant force, with the nation’s nated by the European teams. Spain women collecting three accolades and won the Italia Cup (M35)+ and the Tra- the men contributing two. bert Cup (M40+), France won the Dub- ler Cup (M45+) and the USA’s women prevailed in the Wom- Cup (W45+), Italy won the Suzanne en's 65 Kitty Godfree and Women's Lenglan Cup (W35+) and Germany 70 Cups. USA also won the Young Cup (W40+). tasted victory in the Women's 85 Team Cup, which was being contest- Australia had teams in Suzanne Lenglan ed for the first time. th th Cup (finished 14 ), Italia Cup (15 ), Dubler Cup (5th) and the Trabert Cup Not to be upstaged, USA’s men (12th). topped the podium in the Men's 75 Bitsy Grant and Men's 85 Cups. In the Individual Championships, alt- hough not having any winners Australi- France were the second most success- an players still made their mark. David ful nation during the tournament as McNamara and Matthew Breen (both they won the Men's 65 Britannia Cup and Women's 75 Queens Cup, based in the USA) reached the semi finals of the 40 mens singles with Mat- The other trophies were secured by thew losing in 3 sets to the eventual title Denmark, Chile and Argentina, who holder. Jarrod` Broadbent from Victo- prevailed in the Men's 70 Jack Craw- ria made the quarter finals of the 45 ford Cup, Men's 80 mens singles. Cup and Women's 80 Cup respectively.

2020 World Titles Australia had teams in all the Cups Dates and Locations with exception of the Women’s 85

Young Seniors (35/40/45) Team Cup. Although not coming home with any Cups a number of the Teams – Sunday 13 September – Friday Australian teams went close. 18 September 2020 (Saturday 19 Sep- The Althea Gibson Cup, Britannia tember will be used if necessary) th Cup and Men’s 85 teams finished 4 , Individuals – Saturday 19 September – the Kitty Godfree Cup, the Doris Hart Saturday 26 September 2020 Cup, the Queens Cup and the Bitsy

Grant teams finished 5th and the Gard- Location – Umag Croatia th. nar Mulloy Cup finished 6 The Jack Seniors (50/55/60) Crawford Cup team battled hard but Teams – Sunday 26 April – Friday 1 finished 15th.

May 2020 (Saturday 2 May will be used In the Individual Championships held if necessary) the following week, the Australian Individuals - Saturday 2 May – Satur- players did bring home some gold. day 9 May 2020 Kerry Ballard (NSW) - Women’s 70 Location – Boca Raton, Florida, USA Singles (teams) plus Palm Beach Gardens, Flor- Bob Howes (Vic)/Bruce Rehn (SA) - ida (individuals) Men’s 80 Doubles Capital Liquor and Beverages

Super Senior (65/70/75/80/85) Adrienne Avis (NSW)/Helen Worland have a shop at Page Shops (NSW) - Women’s 65 Double called Page Bottler Teams – Sunday 11 October – Friday Kerry Ballard (NSW)/Shirley Fox 16 October 2020 (Saturday 17 October (GBR) – Women’s 70 Doubles will be used if necessary) Adrienne Avis (NSW)/Marc Renoult Individuals – Saturday 17 October – (France) – 65 Mixed Doubles Saturday 24 October 2020 Don Biddle (NSW)/June Simpson (Vic) – 80 Mixed Doubles Location – Mallorca, Spain Claude Wenzel (Qld)/Jean Stevens (NZL) – 85 Mixed Doubles. Page 8 Sunday Round Robins NSW State by Colin Lyons and Warren Muller Championships

Six players from the ACT made the trip The 7th round robin for the year was an average of 5. to over the October long week- held at Weston Creek on 22 September. Other newcomers were Greg’s wife end (4-7 October) to play in the Tennis It was pleasing that we finally had Marion, David Jones and Tulip Pen- Seniors NSW State Championships enough players for a September event, ney. Linda Valente and Anthony (ITF1) held at Pennant Hills. There having fallen short the previous two Johnston, regulars in the past also were 181 players in total, an increase on Septembers. Following a wet Saturday, were welcome additions to our partici- last year's 162. The players enjoyed the all was clear on Sunday morning and pants on the day. four days of competition in spite of the we were underway with 9 keen players heat on Friday and the rainy start on ready for a good morning of tennis. It was a cool overcast start to our last Saturday. tournament for the year at Weston The bookies favourite was Leonie Creek on Sunday, 24 November. By Narelle Raftery was our most successful Southwell and she didn’t disappoint, the time of the last set, it was consider- player winning the 55 womens singles with consistent play over the five sets to ably warmer, but thankfully no gusty from Kellie Reid (NSW). end up with an average of 5.6. Not too winds to contend with. Neville Rodwell repeated his effort in far behind, with an average of 5.25, was Daya Singh, taking the runner-up prize The awkward number of entries, 17, 2017 and 2018 by making the final in at only his third start. Other strong per- necessitated two groups of 9 and 8 the 70 mens singles only to lose to Mi- respectively. The field included two chael Pyne again. formers were Phil Byrne and Helen Macduff. Maybe they can achieve a new faces to our tournaments, John Hung Kha was runner-up in the 40 mens podium finish next time. Stark and relative, Rob de Jong, visit- doubles playing with Edmond Catusanu ing from the South Coast. It was good (NSW) and also made the semi-finals of Colin Lyons was a late scratching, hav- to see them and they both competed ing been ill the whole week and unable the 35 mens singles. Tim Harris and strongly. Leonie Ainsworth made the final of the to make it to the barrier. Everyone else enjoyed the running and no-one was In Group A, it was a dead heat be- 60 mixed doubles after having a close singled out by the stewards for poor tween Anthony Johnston, visiting from win over the number one seeds, Graeme his salubrious villa in North Queens- Sticka and Sara Goddard. performance. land and Chris Adam, making the long After horrible windy weather on the Graeme Rossiter again struck the num- journey from Tuggeranong, both on 25 ber one seed first up in the 65 mens sin- Saturday, we were much relieved to games from their 5 sets! They played enjoy a very pleasant Sunday for our gles. Tim Harris did the same but in the very consistent tennis. second round of the 60 mens singles. tournament at Weston Creek on 27 Oc- tober. In Group B, Phil Byrne added hand- Then Tim and Graeme played together somely to his bank balance winning in the 60 mens doubles only to lose to There was a big roll-up with 19 players with an average of 5.5 from his 4 sets, the eventual winners Wayne Pascoe and (after a late withdrawal) which included while Warren Muller was runner-up Craig Withell first round. 6 new starters. Unfortunately this odd on 5.25, hotly pursued by Rochelle number meant groups of 10 and 9 and Hogan on 5.2. some players getting one set less than others in the 9 group. The November tournament was the Victorian State last one for 2019. There will not be a In our top division, newcomer Josh Championships tournament in December as the ACT Wylie was in very good form and fin- Resident Championships are on 13-15 Neville Rodwell and Sue Willis trav- ished with an average of 5.7 while Greg December, entries closing on 4 De- elled to Kooyong Tennis Club, Mel- Hunt was next across the line on 5. In nd cember. Have a go!!! The first tourna- bourne to play in the 2019 Victorian the 2 division, a visitor from the Port ment in 2020 will on 16 February. Seniors Championships (ITF2) held 2-5 Macquarie area, former Canberran, On behalf of Warren and myself, we November. Rain caused some prob- Greg McIntosh was our winner with an lems in the early part of the draws with average of 6, while another newcomer, wish all members a very Merry Xmas and a Happy New Year, both on and some matches playing short sets (first Thelma Winroe said thanks very much to 4 games). and took home the runner-up prize with off the court. Neville was defending his 70 singles title that he won in 2017. He had made Pauline Downes and Merim- the final in 2018 but it was washed out. bula Tournament Director, This year he again made the final which John Rheinberger below he won 7-6, 6-0 against Ramon Fun- tera.

Sue had some good tennis but didn't fare too well. TSQ Tewantin

Mark Hardy was the only Canberra player to decide to get away from Can- berra's weather and head up to Tewantin for the Tennis Seniors Queensland Tournament ITF3) held 20- Don Masters and Greg Hunt chaffing at 23 September, unfortunately with little the bit to get on a court at Merimbula success. Page 9 Seniors Tournament Results

Orange Seniors Over 35 Tournament from Chrissie Kjoller Victorian Grasscourt Championships The Orange Ex-Services Tennis Club Sunday afternoon saw the last events, held its fifth Seniors Tennis Tourna- the A and B Mixed Doubles. The 2019 Victorian Seniors Grasscourt ment from 21-22 September. What a A – Yvonne Stanton/Dave Ridley Championships (ITF2) were held in fantastic weekend we had when we (Goulburn) 32 games, Rebekha Fish- Yarrawonga beside the Murray River hosted our Seniors Over 35’s Tourna- er/Stewart Palmer (Peel) 28 games. and Lake Mulwala from 22-25 Novem- ment. We received fifty entries this B – Jan Tyson/Dennis Reaves ber. Players travelling to Yarrawonga year with players travelling from vari- (Katoomba) 37 games, Rosa Cotter/ on the Thursday prior to the tournament ous towns in the state including all parts Don Masters 28 games. were looking at very hot and very of Sydney, Canberra, South Coast, windy conditions. However Friday North Coast, Lithgow, Blue Mountains, Overall it was a great and very memo- dawned to sunny and hot conditions and Bathurst, Orange, Forbes, Peak Hill, rable weekend once again, not only little wind which was the case for the 4 Cowra and Goulburn. catching up with old acquaintances days of the tournament. but also meeting more new ones. Upon arrival to our complex, players Many said they would be back next To the tennis, ACT had 8 players on the were given a warm welcome by our year and will bring more players. So grass. Ros Balodis was playing her first Club’s President Alan Hubbard and the we will look forward to that. What tournament since aggravating her leg Match Committee, which was then re- encourages the Match Committee to injury at the Seniors World Titles in ciprocated by Tennis NSW Seniors keep going is all (and there were August but still managed to win the President Mick Bruton. womens 60 singles with the loss of 3 many) the continuous and over- On Saturday the first event was the La- whelming compliments that we re- games over 3 matches. She also paired dies and Men’s A and B grade Ameri- ceive every year. with Colin Holgate to win the 60 mixed doubles. Colin and his partner, Roger can Round Robin. Players got most of Importantly, a very special thanks to the day in before rain cancelled the day Spraggon from NSW reached the final Physiotherapists Paul Clarke and Si- of the mens 60 doubles only to lose to but there were enough matches played mon Lloyd, who treated players with to declare the winners. Rodney Wurtz and Wayne Hanslow their professional advice over the two (both from Victoria) 6-3, 6-3. American Round Robin days. Also to Thelma, Edna and Nor- Ladies A – Yvonne Stanton (Quakers ma who worked very hard in the can- Hung Kha reached the final of the mens Hill) 18 games, Kim Kaar (Hazelbrook) teen the entire weekend and thanks to 40 singles. Tim Harris lost a very tight 15 games. Alan and Wayne who were the cooks first round mens 60 singles 7-6, 7-5 but Men’s A – Tim Harris 27 games, Sam on the barbecue. Much appreciated. had better luck in the doubles reaching the semi-final with Dennis Love from Radojicic (Orange) 25 games. Lastly a big thank you to the awesome Ladies B – there was a 3 way tie all on Merimbula. They lost to the winners. Match Committee who have put in 14 games, therefore Lyndy Cannon many long hours leading up to the Leonie Ainsworth must be wondering (Forbes) was drawn the winner, with Tournament and over the two days to who she has upset. She was in Ros' Rosa Cotter and Jan Tyson ensure it all ran like clockwork. The round robin section of the womens 60 (Springwood) as runners up. icing on the cake was the final com- singles, Christine Jarrett and Leonie Men’s B – Bob Morgan (Kiama) 26 ments made over the microphone by drew the number one seeds in the first games, Don Masters and Brendan Au- the President of Tennis NSW Seniors, round of the womens 60 doubles and gustus (Padstow) both on 24 games. Leonie and Tim met Ros and Colin in Mick Bruton, who stated that our At the conclusion of the day, players tournament was the best in country the first round of the 60 mixed doubles. met at the Orange Ex-Services Club for NSW and very well run. Christine, Sue Willis and Mark Hardy an enjoyable meal and socializing. had some good tennis but with not We awoke to a perfect sunny day on much reward. Sunday for the Ladies and Men’s A and B Doubles events.

Ladies A - Rebekha Fisher (Eglington)/ Yvonne Stanton 28 games, Lindy Crossley (Ophir)/Janet Davenport (Orange) 16 games. Men’s A - Brendan Augustus/Sam Ra- dojicic 27 games. Mick Bruton (Annangrove)/John Whittaker (Cherrybrook) 24 games Leonne Southwell, Ladies B - Rosina Anson (Ruse)/Jan Betty Smith and Tyson 25 games. Sue Markwick Dot Green at (Kelso)/Stacey Markwick (O’Connell) Merimbula 22 games. Men’s B – Don Masters/Bob Morgan 32 games. Rick Taylor (Mullion Creek)/Ningshong Cai (Orange) 19 games.

Page 10 Senior Tournament Results

Forster Seniors from Sue Willis Merimbula

th Around 10 players from the Canberra Merimbula held its 38 Seniors Tennis John and Helen Coleman, Helen Tournament from 18-21 October. John area ventured to Forster for their Sen- Nealer, Dave Bruckner and Chris Jar- iors Tournament running from 2-5 Au- Rheinberger was back at the helm after rett were some of the Canberra play- being absent last year. The weather gust ers. Alan Douglas joined the group to was kind to John with fine conditions This is the best tournament on the ten- ensure that we all behaved ourselves. apart from a shower on Saturday after- nis calendar!’ As has been the case in many other noon. years, Helen and Wilma Bingley I overheard this statement on many oc- played together and made sure that Players travelled from , Al- casions and for the following reasons. their opponents had to work hard to bury, Canberra and Sydney to play in First, the setting. Forster Tennis Club is win their matches. the tournament. John thanked all play- beautifully set out with well-kept gar- ers for returning once again to Merim- All in all a great few days and highly bula for this annual event and making it dens and courts that are in perfect con- recommended for the calendar for dition. a success. Irene and John Stimson from 2020! A 5 star rating !! Bulli were among the many competitors Second, the organisation. The new Winners were who have been supporting the tourna- Tournament Director, Brian Adams and Don Masters/ John Howard - mens ment for the last 30 years. his team are efficient and professional doubles 55+ pool 4 Players competed in doubles events on in the way that they conduct the tourna- Leonie Ainsworth/Maryanne Sciffer – ment. The pools were well graded and Friday and Saturday with the combined combined age womens doubles ages doubles on Sunday and mixed all events are round robins so that you 80/110 pool 1 have plenty of tennis. doubles event on Monday. Susan Willis/Susan Roche – womens Third, the hospitality. On the Friday doubles 55+ pool 2 John also thanked Anthea Parker and night, after the day of singles, the bar Leonie Ainsworth/Robyn Rickard – her many helpers for providing quality opened! Generous snacks were served womens doubles 60 pool 1 sandwiches and homemade cakes and to help the players stay sober and to Susan Willis/Chris Jarrett – womens biscuits for the enjoyment of the play- keep the party’s noise level within the doubles 60+ pool 2 ers. Dot was again behind the camera. required decibels of the neighbourhood Runners-up were Many thanks also go to the local busi- The canteen did not stop for the four Steve Vogt – mens singles 55+ ness houses for their sponsorship and days. The women and men who volun- Don Masters/Bernie Breithaupt – support. teered their time were outstanding. mens doubles 70/80 pool 3 The full list of players from the Canber- Scones, jam and cream as well as Leonie Ainsworth/May Howard – ra Region winning or runner up follows grandma’s BBQ rissoles were very pop- womens doubles 55+ pool 1 ular! May Howard/Annette Cochrane – Winners womens doubles 60+ pool 1 Mens 120 combined age doubles – Tim Fourth, the players. Players from NSW, Harris/Graeme Rossiter Queensland, ACT and Victoria trav- Chris Jarrett/Alan King – combined age mixed doubles 110+ pool 1 Ladies 45/55 doubles – Pauline elled to Forster to enjoy the quality of Downes/Dot Green this tournament. Don Masters, Rosa Susan Willis/John Coleman – com- bined age mixed doubles 110+ pool 2 Ladies 60 doubles –Betty Smith/Leonne Cotta, Leonie and Graham Ainsworth, Southwell Ladies 70 doubles – Heather McKay/ Marilyn Walter To the left, Jan Au- Ladies 100/120 combined age doubles – brey and Margaret Penny Moss/Jean Penny Harrigan having a Ladies 130 combined age doubles (A) – quiet orange juice at Heather McKay/Leonie Ainsworth Merimbula. But is it Ladies 130 combined age doubles (B) – just orange!!! Christine Jarrett/Irene Stimson Mixed 80/120 combined age doubles – Betty Smith/Tim Harris

Runner up Mens 65 singles –Greg Hunt Mens 35/45 doubles – Grant Wood- bridge/Tony McCosker Mens 70 doubles - Don Masters/Gary Stanton Mens 140/150 combined age doubles – To the right, Tony Don Masters/Gary Stanton McCosker and Grant Ladies 45/55 doubles – Leonne Ains- Woodbridge, runners worth/Christine Jarrett -up in mens 35/45 Ladies 65/75 doubles –Heather McKay/ doubles at Merimbula Betty Smith Ladies 50 doubles – Pauline Downes/ Marlene Veness Ladies 100/120 combined age doubles – Pauline Downes/Marlene Veness Page 11 Tennis Seniors ACT Calendar 2019/2020

TOURNAMENTS SUNDAY ROUND DINNERS AND ROBIN SPECIAL FUNCTIONS AND PENNANTS TOURNAMENTS 13-15 December 2019 ACT Resident Christmas Dinner - 14 December, Championships - see front page The next tournament is scheduled for a Yowani Country Club - see page 2 for 9.15am start on 16 February 2020. more detail. 5-10 January 2020 Australian Tennis Seniors Teams Carnival Busselton/ The rest of the dates for next year will Members booking for the dinners Bunbury WA be available in the March Vetset or should be aware that if they cancel af- keep an eye on the website for any 12-17 January 2020 Australian Ten- ter the closing date they may be re- changes. quired to pay the cost if the caterer nis Seniors Individual Championships If you put your name down and find charges Tennis Seniors ACT. Busselton WA

th you cannot play on the day, please noti- Contact Graham Smith (6161 5352) 10-13 April 2020 50 ACT Open Sen- fy one of the organisers so that the oth- iors Tournament (ITF2) er players are not inconvenienced. Kiama ACT Open Seniors Tournament: Contact: Colin Lyons (0434 531 449) Contact Pat Moloney (6262 3727) or Warren Muller (0407 916 868) Colin Lyons reports that a relatively small contingent of Canberrans trav- Australian Seniors Championships: nd Contact Pat Moloney (6262 3727) elled to Kiama to play in their 2 annu- al tournament from 11-13 October at their very attractive and rather secluded Country and Interstate Tournament Calendar 2020 location; GPS units informed you that you had arrived at your location, with 17-19 Jul East Port Macquarie not a tennis court in sight! Some of the dates may change. You should check the relevant State’s 31 Jul-3 Aug Forster Seniors R/R Unfortunately, the weather played its website for any changes. 8-9 Aug Forbes Open Teams (tbc) unpredictable hand and all events in 14-16 Aug Muswellbrook Park 2020 Kiama on Saturday were washed out, 21-23 Aug .Batemans Bay R?R while there were some completed 5-10 Jan Australian Teams Carni- 4-6 Sep- Cessnock Seniors R/R events at Jamberoo, only about 12k’s val, Busselton and BunburyWA 12-13 Sep Manning River, Taree away. Locals informed us that this was 12-17 Jan Australian Individual 18-21 Sep Tennis Seniors Qld the first wet weekend for months! Champs (ITFA), Busselton Sunshine Coast (ITF3), 21-23 Feb Ulladulla Summer Tewantin After a late night dinner on Saturday Games 19-20 Sep Orange Ex-Services R/R night at which former top 28 Feb-1 Mar Walcha Seniors 26-27 Sep Gunnedah Seniors and Doubles multiple 5-9 Mar Oceania Regional 2-5 Oct Tennis Seniors NSW champion, was a very en- Kooyong (ITFRC1) State Championships (ITF2) tertaining and informative guest speak- 6-8 Mar Narooma Round Robin 9-11 Oct Kiama R/R er, Sunday brought beautiful weather 7-8 Mar Tennis Macarthur, Lumeah 16-18 Oct Gosford Tennis Club R/R and many players keen to see a bit of action. 13-15 Mar Central Coast Wyong 16-19 Oct Merimbula Seniors 27-29 Mar Goulburn Seniors 23-25 Oct Dubbo Paramount Success was enjoyed by Canberra play- 3-5 Apr Howe Park Grasscourt Seniors ers as follows: 1-3 Nov Victorian Seniors Champs Singleton Winners: 4-7 Apr Tennis Seniors Qld (ITF2), Kooyong (tbc) Claycourt Champ(ITF2) 6-8 Nov Hawks Nest, Myall Park Combined 110 Mens Doubles – Rick 18-19 Apr Wagga Wagga 8=10 Nov Tennis Seniors SA Genge and Simon Graham; 24-26 Apr Sunshine Coast Vets, State Championships Combined Mens 120 Doubles – Mark Nambour (tbc) (ITF3) (tbc) Hardy and Colin Lyons;

24-26 Apr Gloucester Seniors 14-15 Nov Bathurst Carillion Runners Up: 2-4 May Gold Coast Seniors City R/R Combined 120 Womens Doubles – Bev 15-17 May Picton Seniors R/Robin 19-22 Nov Victoria Senior Grass Roberts and Sue Willis. 15-17 May West Port Macquarie court Champs (ITF2), 16-18 May Berri Seniors Teams Yarrawonga (tbc) A number of Canberra players also Carnival (SA) 24 Nov Springwood Challenge competed in the singles events on the 23-24 May West Tamworth Seniors 4-6 Dec Nelson Bay Seniors Friday but did not feature in the win- 23-24 May Cowra Open Teams ners or runner’s up circle. (tbc) 5-8 Jun Victorian Seniors Claycourt Champs (ITF5) (tbc) Left, Graeme 6-8 Jun Newcastle Mixed Teams Rossiter and 13-14 Jun Lake Macquarie Seniors Tim Harris 27-28 Jun Cowra Seniors R/R and right 27-29 Jun Tweed Heads Pro-one Anne Haycock Tennis (ITF3) and Jan Au- 5-8 Jul Tennis Seniors Qld brey watching State Champs (ITF1) on at Merim- bula Page 12