Parkes tennis elite were forced to battle oppressive conditions for singles Championships day at Parkes Tennis Club last Sunday.
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Swirling winds along with 43 degree temperatures and mid-afternoon storms played havoc with player’s mental approaches.
As the day wore on it was a battle of the fittest and the smartest on the court.
Luke Evans prevailed in the A grade mens after a tricky semi-final against James Ward.
James had nothing to lose and went for his shots against his more fancied opponent.
Luke struggled against the wind but went on to win 6/0, 6/4.
Jake Magill caused an upset against last year’s finalist Geoff Leonard in the second semi-final.
The heat and a young star on the rise proved too much for the elder statesman as Jake took the match 6/3, 2/6 and 6/2.
The final was played mid-afternoon and players went out and attempted to hit the other off the court.
Jake led 4/3 when a rain storm forced them off court.
Luke had a chance to think about the match and went back on and played a much steadier game.
He took the opening set 6/4 and was leading 4/1 when another storm swept across the Tennis Centre courts.
Luke played some nice approach shots and showed his skill at the net and eventually took the second set 6/2, claiming the A grade Championship title for the second straight year.
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Parkes tennis veteran Helen Magill proved age is no barrier as she continued her dominance in the A grade ladies Championship.
Helen outclassed both Marcia Scally and Suzie Hill to continue her impressive winning streak.
Marcia had an unhappy day with too many unforced errors costing her while Suzie was surprised with Helen’s ability to stay in points and force her into errors.
The intensity of the sun and the swirling winds didn’t seem to phase the wily Helen while Suzie took considerable time at the change of ends, hoping for a cool change to blow through.
The final score was 6/0 and 6/2 with Suzie and Marcia likely to be out for revenge when they team up next Sunday in the ladies doubles.
A classic struggle took place for the B grade mens title with counterparts James Beuzeville and Brenden Weekes both keen to get the upper hand.
Brenden came out on fire and took the opening set 6/4.
He could not maintain his impressive start and let James back into the match.
James won the second set 6/2 and looked likely to take some momentum into the third and deciding set.
It was an even affair before Brenden broke a string early, hampering his rhythm.
He fought on but James just had enough energy left to get over the line 6/4.
The B grade ladies final was played between sisters Birdee and Georgia Sideris.
Birdee handled the hot and humid conditions much better than Georgia and proved too strong, winning 6/0, 6/2.
This Sunday, Parkes Tennis Centre will host the doubles Championships.
