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Historic Rackets Tournament Is Triumphant At Clifton College

Sunday 22 January saw Clifton College play host to the finals of the most important tournament in the rackets calendar. 18 of the world's finest players came together over three days for the Professional Singles Rackets Championship.

The historic game of rackets, which dates from the 18th century, is one of the fastest ball sports in the world with the ball, which is similar that used in golf, travelling at speeds of up to 160mph.

Clifton rackets coach and former Gloucestershire wicket-keeper, Reggie Williams, said: "This annual tournament is the high-point of the rackets season and Clifton College is delighted to have hosted such an exciting tournament. The level of play was outstanding and the atmosphere on the last day was electric."

After a series of heats which bought together the game's best players, number two seed Mark Hubbard won the tournament and took the title from US player Neil Smith who has won it for the last three years running. Mark, who is the rackets professional at Radley College, won the match following a close game which involved a number of high speed, nail biting rallies.

Supporting the players throughout the tournament and filling a packed house on the final day were many family members, school pupils and 'Boasters' - the Clifton College evening rackets club.

Played on the newly refurbished rackets court at Clifton College, the school's Chairman of Council, Andrew Thornhill, presented the coveted trophy to the overall winner following the final on Sunday afternoon.

23 January 2006

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