By Isle of Wight Observer
The annual Mountbatten Charity Table Tennis Tournament took place on Saturday, June 7, attracting 48 players – 35 of them from across the south of England.
Spectators were treated to a high standard of play rarely seen on the Island. Top-performing local player was 18-year-old Ryan Cates, who reached the semi-finals after a thrilling five-set win over 16-year-old Jaydan Griffiths, saving a match point in the process.
Island players, Alex Rorke, Steve Mills and Hugh Idle, also reached the last sixteen. Cates eventually lost to Matt Ware, who is ranked in England’s top 30. The other semi-final saw Matt Daish beat Luke Greenfield. Ware went on to win a closely fought final, beating Daish in the fifth set 11–8.
IWTTA chairman, Alex Rorke, thanked Rob Smith for organising the event and Pat Thorley for providing refreshments. He said: “A high standard of play was clearly evident. I’d like to thank all those involved.”
Winner, Matt Ware, said: “This is a lovely event with great hospitality. Everyone is very welcoming and friendly.”
The trophy, and £500 prize, was presented by IWTTA treasurer and centre manager, Martin Dove. Runner-up, Matt Daish, received £250, with the semi-finalists each winning £125 and the quarter-finalists £30.
The tournament, now in its fourth consecutive year, raised £1,700 for Mountbatten Hospice.