Hard Bat Competition Instow 18th December 2018
The annual Charity Hard Bat competition attracted 17 entrants from across the two North Devon Table Tennis League divisions. Unlike the usual best of 5 games up to 11 with two serves each, players were entered into groups playing one leg to 21 with 5 serves each. This produced quarter, semi and finals to decide the winner.
The other caveat is that the bats are supplied – so no one has chance to practice with them in advance – as they are the old style of ‘pimples out’ with no sponge. So, old style equipment with old scoring system, to provide a more level playing field for everyone.
The semi finals were Matthew Thomas vs Michael Sussex and Lee Farrant vs Peter Dunstan – an all first division set of plays – that said, all player had lost at least once during the round robin and some to second division opponents.
Mike Sussex overcame Thomas 21-14 and Dunstan beat Farrant by 21-13 to set up a best of 3 game final.
In the final Michael Sussex proved he had mastered the rolling of the topspin forehand and proved to consistent in his attack beating Pete Dunstan 21-10 21-18.
Refreshments were provided by Doreen and thanks to her for this and Alan Slade for organising the night with all proceeds being donated to the North Devon Hospice.
Composed by Matthew Thomas
