Floodlights Inauguration - November 22

To celebrate the successful completion of the floodlights project, Marnhull Tennis Club gathered together for an evening of social tennis, followed by wine and nibbles in the village hall. Committee Chairman Jeremy Hamer gave a rousing speech to thank everyone who has contributed to the funding and installation of the floodlights, and was presented with a plaque from the Dorset LTA.

2024 Final Days - September 29

After several months of friendly competition, the Marnhull Tennis Club Finals Day took place in front of an enthusiastic crowd. The opening event was the Tombola Final, in which the pairings are made up of two randomly matched club members of mixed ability. We had 32 entrants this year, which were eventually whittled down to just 4: Alison McBarron & Dave Cooper and Sally Brunner & Martin Ansell. 

Martin’s recent return to tennis after a 30 year layoff proved significant in the opening set, which he and Sally lost 6/2. But with the crowd at times in hysterics at the creative play, Martin and Sally took the second set 6/4, levelling the match at one set all. There were many long rallies, and the standard of tennis was improving all the time. To say this was fun would be an understatement, and but for a few critical errors at net in the latter stages, the match could have gone either way.  It was Sally and Martin who eventually took the third set and the title, however, clinching the third set 6/4.

After an excellent lunch, including some international cuisine enjoyed greatly by the spectators,  Sally returned to the court to take on Tom Lee in our unique all-gender singles tournament final. As had been expected by the seeding committee, the two best players in the club went head to head in a very high-quality singles match. Not dissimilar in style, the rallies were long and very energetic, and when they started the first set tie-break at 6/6 it was anyone’s match. Graham Howell, our long-term club tennis pro who coaches both these players, was in the crowd, but would not be drawn on who would come out on top! 

The extensive tie-break was eventually won by Tom, and it was clear that the earlier tombola 3-setter and the intensity of the singles first set were beginning to take their toll, but somehow Sally found the courage to make it very difficult again for Tom. We all enjoyed a very close match of the highest quality, but eventually Tom took the crown 7/6 6/4. An excellent club day, with some excellent tennis and worthy winners!

Jeremy Hamer, Club Chairman

Wimbledon Men's Finals Day - July 14, 2024

A great time was had by everyone who attended the Wimbledon men’s final event at the Blackmore Vale Inn on July 14! A highly partisan crowd cheered Alcaraz to victory over finger sandwiches, Pimm's and some rather delicious summer pudding!