Bude Tennis Club

Autumn Hurlingham

This was held on Sunday 19th October despite heavy rain and strong winds up to an hour before the start time! Fifteen members enjoyed a fun evening and the winners were Ann Mason (another one to add to her long list of achievements) and Alex Mustill (his first trophy of many to come, we feel). Huge congratulations to them both!

Speedy Cecil

On Monday evening, the 9th September, the Cecil Heard Trophy was held at Bude Tennis Club. This year we decided on a new format - 'speed tennis' - 10 minute rounds of tie-break trying to get as many points in as possible. Twenty-four members competed in the doubles tournament in glorious weather. There was a lot of running around during points, changing ends and getting to the board to record scores. After 7 rounds the scores were added up and the winners announced. Congratulations to Sarah Grey (82) and Adrian Riddock (79) and well done to all for getting their heads around the rules and taking part with such enthusiasm!

Fun, Family Beach Afternoon

Twenty people including members, family and friends enjoyed a lovely afternoon on Summerleaze Beach on Saturday 28th June. Many games were played including Viking Kubb, rounders and cricket. There was lots of strong throwing, big hitting, brilliant fielding, fast running and amazing catching! The afternoon was rounded off with a fully deserved beverage at Rosies.

Glorious Rosebowl

On Monday evening, the 16th of June, the Rosebowl was held at Bude Tennis Club. Twenty-four members competed in the mixed doubles tournament in glorious weather. Players were seeded, partners drawn for the duration of the tournament and battle commenced. Each match was played on a best of 5 games basis and many were very close with some excellent tennis played. The final between Dougie Galley with Karen Snelson and Adrian Riddock with Rose Sullivan was an excellent match and a very fitting end to a fantastic evening. This match went to the wire with the score tied at 3 games all and 40 all, a 20-shot rally was eventually finished off with golden point achieved and the victors, Adrian and Karen, could finally celebrate.

Also on the evening, Joan Coney was presented with a special award for her significant contribution, dedication, inspiration and love for Bude Tennis Club. Joan has been a member for 55 years and throughout that time has worked tirelessly to ensure the smooth running of the Club both on and off the court. Joan has recently ‘retired’ from the Committee and held the post of tournament organiser for a number of years too. It is also the help and support that Joan gives behind the scenes that was recognised. In the last few years, she had organised a walking quiz with her husband David; on behalf of the club, she has sent cards/flowers to members in good and not so good times. Joan is a true inspiration and long may this continue.

Fair Play All-Round

Last Saturday, 26th April, the annual spring Hurlingham Tournament was held to herald the start of the 2025/26 season at Bude Tennis Club.

The overnight rain had cleared and with a fabulous turnout of 28 members, the social mixed doubles tournament was played in an excellent spirit and with a very high standard of tennis. The organisation was made a lot easier by having equal numbers of men and ladies and it was great to see lots of new members participating. For the ladies there was a tie for second place between Carole Hunt and Margaret Slator (15.5 points) and the winning lady with 18 points was Sue Brown. There was also a tie for second place for the men with Adrian Riddock and Nigel Tripp (17.5 points) and the winning man was John Brooks with 19.5 points.

Following the presentation of the shield, members enjoyed a well-earned cup of tea and a slice of cake sitting out in the sun.

Spring Hurlingham Winners - John Brooks and Sue Brown 

Spring Hurlingham 2025 Participants