The annual Mountbatten Charity Tournament was held on Saturday 7th June, and proved to be the best so far.
48 players entered, with no fewer than 35 travelling across the Solent from all over the South of England to take part in the tournament.
The level of table tennis was extremely high and of a standard not regularly witnessed on the Island.
The top performing Island player was 18-year-old Ryan Cates, who made it through to the semi finals after beating 16-year-old Jaydan Griffiths in the 5th set of the quarter final, having saved a match point.
Local players Alex Rorke, Steve Mills and Hugh Idle all made the last 16 in a very strong field of competitors.
In the semi-finals, Cates lost to Matt Ware (who is ranked in the top 30 in England), whilst in the other semi-final, Matt Daish beat Luke Greenfield.
A thrilling final of top quality table tennis ensued between the two Matts, and the match went to the wire, with Ware coming out the winner after taking the 5th set 11-8.
Alex Rorke, chair of IWTTA, commented:
“Our Association is delighted to have organised this event for the 4th consecutive year. A high standard of play was clearly evident. I would like to thank all those involved with organising this tournament.”
Winner of the tournament for the 2nd time, Matt Ware, commented:
“I look forward to this annual tournament. Everyone is very welcoming and friendly. This is a lovely event with great hospitality.”
The trophy and cheque for £500 was presented to Matt Ware by IWTTA Treasurer and Centre Manager, Martin Dove. Runner up Matt Daish won £250, the 2 losing semi finalists received £125 each and the losing quarter finalists each received £30.
The event was sponsored by Wight Fire and Security, Woodcliffe Holiday Apartments, The Stable Tearoom and Mike Turner Leisure Ltd.
A provisional figure of £2200 was raised for the Mountbatten Hospice.
