BADMINTON - THE mixed doubles tournament, Uphill's last internal tournament of the season, had 16 pairs playing in two boxes of eight.

THE mixed doubles tournament, Uphill's last internal tournament of the season, had 16 pairs playing in two boxes of eight.

Each box played a round robin format and four pairs then played a box quarter-final, the winners of which then played a semi-final. The box winners then played a grand final.

From the first box, unbeaten Becky Halfpenny and Robin Curry beat Julie O'Sullivan and Nigel Judge 21-16. Then Becky Matthews and Matt Valentine beat Maureen Matthews and Mark Edwards 21-14. In the final of this box Becky and Robin beat Becky and Matt 21-16.

The second box saw Christy Langford and Rob Murray beat Jenny Cross and Grant Kelly 21-19 in a close and tense match. Claire Garrett and Steve Matthew then beat Helen Woodfin and Paul Edwards 21-16. Finally, Claire and Steve beat Christy and Rob 21-16 in this second box.

The grand final was an unexpectedly one-sided game with Robin and Becky, who made an excellent pairing with Robin's exuberance tempered by Becky's calming experience, overwhelming Claire and Steve 21-7. It should be said that Robin's play has developed extremely well as the season has progressed. In the tournament his athletic abilities were reminiscent of his father, Roy, who was also seen playing shots while diving around the court.

The tournament was again well organised by Eddie Prest, who was ably assisted by Mark Edwards and the rest of the team and this resulted in a tournament that was enjoyed by all who took part. The winter season has finished and Uphill Badminton Summer Club, at Wyvern Sports Centre, is held on Thursday evenings from 8-10pm and is open to all on a pay as you play basis.

Why not come along and have an evening's badminton? It's good fun. If you are interested please come along and join in. For further information visit the club web site www.uphillbadminton.co.uk