Archived News (2005)
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Archived News (2005)
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In the spring of 2005 Helensburgh LTC were one of only six clubs/schools selected in Scotland to trial RAW Tennis, the Lawn Tennis Association's new initiative for children aged 10 to 18.
RAW Tennis is a fresh approach to the game focusing on skills, competition, keeping in shape and being with friends. The pilot programme has proved to be very successful.
In November Head Coach Steve Losh and teenagers Emily Reid and Alistair Morison, all from HLTC, were invited to the national launch of RAW Tennis with Scots star Andy Murray.
On their arrival in London, courtesy of the LTA, they checked into the Chelsea Football Club Hotel, ventured forth into the city for some sightseeing/shopping, and rounded off the day by joining other RAW participants from around the country to enjoy a huge pizza feast !
Next morning when they reached the launch site - a car park in Soho - Steve, Emily and Alistair changed into their stylish RAW Tennis t-shirts, checked out the breakfast stand, and then began rehearsing a variety of the RAW tricks.
Once the event got underway the four categories of RAW Tennis were demonstrated - Energy (an advanced warm-up), Personal Bests, Slams (team games) and Freestyle.
This final section is where individuality comes into its own, with all players using their skills to invent tricks incorporating their bodies, racquets and balls !
A photo-shoot with Andy Murray rounded off the day and all the players then dispersed to their respective clubs full of energy and keen to practice their new-found RAW Tennis abilities.
(From an article that appeared in the Helensburgh Advertiser - Thu. December 15th 2005)
Over the course of 2005 Helensburgh LTC has been holding monthly tournaments for the Red, Orange, Green and Silver/Gold children to enable them to practice their matchplay skills in a relaxed and informal environment.
In October the winner of the Red tournament was Sean Taheny, whilst in November Fraser Fulton collected the Orange honours, beating Kae Clark in the final.
Last Saturday it was the turn of the Green chiildren and after several impressive round robin matches Andrew Ram beat Jack Keating 4-1 in a closely contested final.
(From an article that appeared in theHelensburgh Advertiser - Thu. December 15th 2005)
Helensburgh LTC are the current holders of the Winter Knock-out Shield and they are again making steady progress through this year's competition. In the 2nd round, having received a walkover from Mount Vernon in the 1st round, the team of Yolande Trewhella, Ann Morison, Steve Losh and Robert Dunbar convincingly beat Hillhead 6-0 for the loss of only 7 games ! In the quarter final the team recently notched up a fine 6-0 win again, this time over Uddingston with Yolande, Karrie Walters, Jamie McDonald and Bobby Kerr doing the honours. The competition now enjoys a break until January, when Helensburgh will face Clarkston at home in the semi-final.
(From an article that appeared in the Helensburgh Advertiser - Thu. December 15th 2005)
With only eight teams throughout the whole of Britain remaining in the Insight Investment Inter Club tournament, Helensburgh Lawn Tennis Club played host recently to Birkdale Tennis Club in the North of Britain quarter-final.
Despite the home draw the home team of Katie Fulton, Ann Morison, Jamie McDonald and Steve Losh saw their hopes of going on to the semi-finals crumble before a patriotic home crowd.
In the Ladies doubles, Katie and Ann gave the performance of the day, pushing their young opponents all the way. They just lost out in the first set 3-6, before storming back to take the second 6-0.
The mixture of deep baseline drives from Ann and penetrating volleys from Katie worked well in the second set, but with the strong crosswind now affecting all four players, the tables were turning against the home pair.
At 3-3 in the third and final set, it was clear the Birkdale Ladies were coping better with the wind and they held their serve to force Katie and Ann to throw everything at them in the eighth game.
The Helensburgh pair knew they would have to attack every ball and they produced some outstanding shots, but the Birkdale pair sensed desperation and held their nerve to force the vital errors that were enough to gain them victory. In the end they took the final set 3-6 and the match.
In the Men's doubles Jamie and Steve got off to a flying start, breaking the visitor's serve in the opening game. Steve held his serve, which gave the home crowd plenty to cheer about. The cheering was short lived, however, as the visitors soon got used to the courts and it wasn't long before the men found themselves a set down.
In the second set each player held onto their serve until the vital seventh game when the left-handed Birkdale captain produced a few killer volleys to leave the home side struggling.
Jamie and Steve managed to break back in the eighth game to make it 4-4. The spectators were cheering all four players on at the thought of a thrilling third set. Alas it was not to be as the Birkdale pair forced more and more errors and took the set 4-6 and the match.
The crowd were very generous in their applause for all eight players in what was a very entertaining match.
(From an article that appeared in the Helensburgh Advertiser - Thu. October 27th 2005)
The Helensburgh Lawn tennis Club Championships final pitted current Club champion and Head Coach Steve Losh against Assistant Head Coach Jamie McDonald bidding to win his first championship.
Jamie took the first set on a tie-break and buoyed with confidence held two match points in the second set.
With tenacious grit and determination together with his composure on the big points combined to get Steve out of trouble and he took the second set 7-5 to level at 1-1.
Jamie recovered from an attack of cramp to take a 5-2 lead in the final set only for Steve to cap an astonishing fight back to win the set 7-5 and with it the title. The longest final in the history of HLTC tennis.
The Ladies final lived up to its billing with Ann Morison pushing Katie Fulton all the way before losing 6-3, 6-4 to a younger opponent.
The Mens doubles event produced the youngest finalist in the history of the Club with Niall Hoope (12) partnering Jamie McDonald against Steve Losh and Alistair Morison (14).
Alistair's impressive play and lack of errors made the difference as the older couple won 6-2, 6-3.
In the Ladies doubles, Ann Morison and Katie Fulton beat Morag Cawley and Carrie Webb whilst in the mixed doubles and entertaining doubles match saw current West of Scotland champions, Jamie McDonald and Katie Fulton, defeat Steve Losh and Ann Morison 6-1 in the final set.
In the Veterans event Bobby Kerr won in straight sets, whilst there were wins for Chris Burt, Ian Evans, Aileen Evans, Joanna Gough, Ann Morison and Sandy Bulloch in the over 40's but under 70's events.
In the over 55's mixed doubles finals, Aileen Evans and Ralph Ward triumphed over Muriel Borland and Ian Evans.
In the open handicapped event there was an excellent win for Alistair Morison and Emily reid over Ian and Aileen Evans.
An enjoyable day was finished off with a very sociable barbeque where winners and losers made up over a Pimms and a hamburger.
(From an article that appeared in the Helensburgh Advertiser - Thu. October 6th 2005)
Helensburgh Tennis Club will represent Scotland in the British finals of the Insight Investment Inter-Club Challenge tennis tournament after a dramatic Scottish final in Edinburgh on Saturday September 17.
More than 200 clubs from all over Britain in regional play-offs and after some hard fought matches helensburgh found themselves in the last 16 as champions of Scotland.
The club got to the Scottish final following wins at Mount Vernon, Uddingston and Whitecraigs. The team of Katie Fulton, Anne Morison, Jamie McDonald and Bobby Kerr travelled to the David Lloyd club in Edinburgh for the Scottish final knowing that they were probably the underdogs.
In the gents doubles Jamie and Bobby failed to make an impression on the home pair and went down 0-2. Katie and Anne, however, were on top form against the Edinburgh pair, who have been undefeated for three years, winning the first set 6-3.
Their opponents came back to take the second set, but the Helensburgh duo piled on the pressure with some brilliant passing shots to take the rubber and tie the match at 1-1.
The match would now be decided with a best of three sets mixed doubles tie. As the current West of Scotland mixed doubles champions, Katie and Jamie felt confident but their opponents claimed to be undefeated for the past three seasons so everyone knew a great match was looming.
A mixture of deep ground strokes from Katie, coupled with accurate volleys from jamie, saw the first set go to Helensburgh 6-4. The second set was a much closer affair with the Edinburgh pair breaking serve early in the set.
Katie and Jamie soon broke back and found themselves at 5-5. The turning point came at 30-40 in that 11th game when a great cross-court backhand from Katie followed by a crunching volley from Jamie saw the Helensburgh duo break serve and take the game to go to 6-5 ahead, with Katie serving for the match.
Despite the pressure on Katie and Jamie they showed true spirit as they took the game to love and the match was in the bag. The team will have to wait to see if they play their next match at home or have to travel to England.
the win is just the latest in a series of great results for the club, as both the Ladies and Gents first teams won their divisions to gain promotion to the West of Scotland premier league.
The Ladies second team also won their league to gain promotion to Division 3. The Club narrowly last in the finals of the Clydedale Cup and Calcutta Cup. The Club is in the middle of the veterans leagues and all the teams are currently on top form, so more records will be set for sure.
(From an article that appeared in the Helensburgh Advertiser - Thu. September 29th 2005)
There were celebrations at Helensburgh Tennis Club, as both the Ladies and Gents first teams won their respective divisions to gain promotion to the premier league next year.
It went right down to the wire for both teams, as they went into the last match knowing only an outright win would secure the titles.
Ann's Aces also made Club history, since a female team from HLTC has never before reached these dizzy heights.
Going into the final match against Giffnock, the squad knew that they needed a win to secure promotion, but after the first sets had been completed on each court, it wasn't looking too hopeful with Helensburgh trainling 1-2.
However, Alison Parlane and Alison Pace, at third couple, upped their level of play against a consistent pair and collected the two remaining sets.
Karrie Walters and Yolande Trewhella, like Katie Fulton and Ann Morison, have won 26 out of a possible 30 sets this season, a tremendous achievement in Division 1, and they certainly weren't about to go down to their first defeat. Playing a tricky couple with no pace and plenty of lobs, it took the home pair a set to figure out their plan of attack, but attack they did and dutifully picked up the second and third sets.
Katie and Ann meanwhile were playing a couple who hit the ball with great depth and power and, having fought hard to collect the first two sets, just couldn't quite maintain their dominance to take the third for a clean sweep.
However, it was enough to give Helensburgh an overall 8-3 victory and send them onwards and upwards to the Premier Division. The team fully deserve their fantastic success this season and should be very proud of themselves.
The Gents' final match of the season was away to Western, in Glasgow's west end. Steve Losh and Jamie McDonald had a tough match at first couple, but never looked like losing as they took it 3-0. Alan Macbeath and Andrew Irving were back to top form, and brushed their opponents aside 3-0.
Robert Dunbar and Bobby Kerr had the toughest match of the night at third couple. The pair went into the match undefeated so far this season, having won 25 sets out of 27.
They led in the first set and had a set-point at 5-4, but thier opponents dig deep and eventually took it 7-5. Robert and Bobby took the next set 6-0 and led in the third. As the match progressed, though, it seemed the harder they tried the more mistakes they made, and the match turned after the pair missed a few vital shots to let Western steal the set in the tie-break.
Both Robert and Bobby had no idea of the scores in the other matches and they thought they had lost the Club the title, but disappoinment soon turned to joy as they were told the championship was in the bag.
(From an article that appeared in the Helensburgh Advertiser - Thu. August 11th 2005)
Helensburgh Lawn Tennis Club safely negotiated their way through the first round of the mixed Clydesdale Cup last Wednesday evening, when they travelled to Glasgow, and recorded an 8-1 victory against Woodend LTC.
Having reached the final of the competition last year, Helensburgh were aiming to go one better in 2005. Karrie Walters and Andrew Irving certainly got the visitors off to a great start, winning their match in almost record time for the loss of only one game!
However, at second couple, Ann Morison and Bobby Kerr were not at their consistent best, losing the first set but then rallying to collect the remaining two.
The first pair of Katie Fulton and Alan MacBeath were in commanding form, dropping only three games on the way to a three set win, thereby securing a victory for Helensburgh and a date with Lenzie LTC in the 2nd round.
Results: Katie Fulton & Alan MacBeath won 6-2, 6-1, 6-0; Ann Morison & Bobby Kerr won 4-6, 6-2, 6-2; Karrie Walters & Andrew Irving won 6-0, 6-0, 6-1.
Extra
Helensburgh advanced to the semi-finals of the mixed Clydesdale Cup competition on Wednesdday evening when they emphatically beat Lenzie 9-0.
With all three Helensburgh couples only losing a handful of games each it was an impressive performance, but they will need to be in the same form when they face one of the strong Glasgow clubs in August for a place in the final.
Results: Katie Fulton/Andrew Irving won 6-0, 6-3, 6-4; Karrie Walters/Robert Dunbar won 6-2, 6-3, 6-2; Ann Morison/Bobby Kerr won 6-0, 6-3, 6-1.
The ladies fourth team had a busy week with two good wins against strong opposition. Against Busby they won a close match 5-4 with three even matches. Judith Reilly and club newcomer Robyn Sheves had an excellent three sets win with the loss of only four games. The second couple, Maggie Sheen and Ishbel Divall, were unlucky to lose all three sets in a closely fought tie. Jane Carroll and junior Emily Reid at 3rd couple had an excellent 2-1 sets win over an experienced couple.
Two nights later the team met Hillhead and won 8-1. Judith and Robyn at first couple ran away with the first set, then they were pegged back to a tie-break in the second, which they won and then went onto take the third set 6-1. Maggie and Carolann at 2nd couple took the first two sets fairly easily before going down 3-6 in the third. Jane Carroll and Ann Esson took their three sets with no major worries at third couple.
In their penultimate match the ladies 5th team had a good win playing at home against Bishopton. Cathy Gemmell, playing with an injured wrist, partnered Jeanette at first couple won the first set 6-1 but lost the next 4-6, 3-6. Ann hunt and Shona Bulloch at second won their first set 6-2, and after a long second set eventually won 7-5, but lost the third 3-6. Carol and Joanna Crumless at 3rd ccouple played well together to take all three sets and give Helensburgh an overall 6-3 win.
Congratulations to the girls under 16 team who have won all but one of their matches. Results: Beat Thorn Park 8-0, Western 8-0, Titwood 5-3, Lost Newlands 3-5. Team: Yvette Dawson, Anna Burnett, Emily reid, Naomi Burnet, Caroline Wylie and Heather Wylie.
(From an article that appeared in the Helensburgh Advertiser - Thu. July 7th 2005)
Helensburgh tennis Club gents first team went back to the top of Division 1 of the West of Scotland League following the demolition of a weak Milngavie side last Friday.
It took Robert Dunbar and Bobby Kerr just 45 minutes to brush aside their opponents 3-0, followed minutes later by Alan MacBeath and Andrew Irving and then Steve Losh and Jamie McDonald.
The 9-0 win was just what was required to keep the pressure on rivals Strathgryffe who also share the top spot this week on 68 points.
Next week the team play host to Mount Vernon, and Steve will be looking for a similar score to keep the pressure on Strathgryffe.
Before then, the team have a little matter of the final of the senior Calcutta Cup against Esporta Hamilton which is due to take place at Suffolk Street this Saturday.
Play starts at 2.30pm and the team consists of Steve Losh, Jamie McDonald, Alan MacBeath and Andy Irving. Steve, Jamie and Alan will play the three singles before Andy joins them for the doubles. The team reached the final last year but were just beaten by Hamilton Tennis Club 4-3.
With a full squad Steve will be hoping to go one better this year, but it will be a huge task, as Esporta boast some of the West's most experienced players.
(From an article that appeared in the Helensburgh Advertiser - Thu. June 16th 2005)
Helensburgh LTC held another in its series of monthly Mini-Tennis tournaments on May 28th, when it was the turn of the 'Orange' children to take part.
The event was split into an A and B stream tournament, based on ability, and the participants were further divided into groups where they played at least three or four matches.
After the round-robin section, the winners from group A were Ross Kennedy and William Anstey, and from Group B Andrew Pollock Morris, Harry Johnson, Matthew Merrick and Calum Pender.
Ross, having beateb William in the group stages, just lost out 7-6 7-6 in a fiercely fought final to William, both boys displaying a great variety of topspin shots and accurate serving.
Again, in a very close B group final, newcomer to the coaching programme Matthew Merrick, just gained the upper hand over Andrew Pollock Morris.
Head Coach Steve Losh commented on how impressed he was with the overall commitment and enthusiasm from the children on the day and he also thanked the parent volunteers for their commitment too!
The next tournament, this time for the 'Green' children, will be on Saturday June 25th from 1pm to 3pm. Please sign names on the list in the Mini-Tennis Room.
(From an article that appeared in the Helensburgh Advertiser - Thu. June 16th 2005)
Firsts
Helensburgh first ladies team added another eight points to their season's tally on Tuesday evening when they travelled away to Thorn Park.
The two Alisons at third couple didn't find their opponents' play to their liking at all, with little pace and plenty of lobs being the order of the day, and Thorn Park collected all three sets.
Katie and Ann, on the other hand, were faced with tremendous pace and power from the younger of their opposition and did very well to emerge with all three sets.
Likewise, at second pair Karrie and Yolande's power and accuracy also enabled them to win all three sets.
All of which added up to an overall victory by eight points to three for Helensburgh.
Results: Katie and Ann 7-5, 6-2, 6-2; Karrie and Yolande 6-4, 6-3, 6-2; Alison and Alison 1-6, 4-6, 2-6.
Seconds
Helensburgh Ladies 2nds continue with their good results beating firstly Esporta Hamilton at home. Results: Liz Wylie and Suzanne Marshall 6-4, 7-6, 4-6; Carol Bews and Gay Black 7-5, 6-3, 6-2; Morag Cauley and Joanna Gough 4-6, 6-0, 6-4.
The next match at home saw a 6-3 win against Clarkston. Results: Liz and Suzanne 4-6,2-6, 6-4; Carol and Gay 6-1, 1-6, 6-3; Morag Cauley and Susan Parlane picked up all three in very tight matches 6-3, 7-6, 7-6.
The last match took the seconds to Next Generation where they secured a 5-4 win against very tough opposition. Results: Liz and Suzanne 3-6, 6-2, 1-6; Carol and Gay 4-6, 6-4, 6-2; Morag and Mharie Stevenson 4-6, 6-4, 6-3.
Well done all team members, only two more matches to go.
Fifths
The ladies' 5th team travelled to Airdrie to play Springwells on Thursday evening and managed to secure a close 6-5 win.
Cathy and Jeanette lost the first set 0-6, but they fought back to take the second 6-4, before losing the third 2-6.
Ann and Joanna won all three sets 6-0, 6-1, 6-0.
Sharon and new member to the team Carol lost the first set 2-6, won the second 6-4, and lost the third 4-6 after a long battle.
Team: Cathy Gemmel and Jeanette Howieson (1); Ann Hunt and Joanna Crumless (2); Sharon McKay and Carol Young (3).
Following that narrow win at Airdrie, the ladies' 5th team swept to a 7-2 win playing at home to Westerton.
Cathy and Jeanette worked hard and having lost the first set 4-6, they won the second 6-4 and third 6-2.
Ann and Shona won their first set 6-4, but lost a long, close second set 5-7, before winning the third 6-3.
Carol and Sharon won all three sets 6-0, 6-3, 6-3.
Team: Cathy Gemmel and Jeanette Howieson (1); Ann Young and Shona Bulloch (2); Carol Young and Sharon McKay (3).
(From an article that appeared in the Helensburgh Advertiser - Thu. June 9th 2005)
Helensburgh's men's first team continued their good form with a very narrow victory last Friday away to Broomhill.
The Broomhill club stunned rivals Westerton the previous week with a convincing win killing off their promotion hopes.
Helensburgh were without Andrew Irving, whose place was filled by the second team's Kevin Stephen. Kevin teamed up Alan MacBeath at third couple.
They almost got off to a dream start as they led throughout the first set before narrowly losing it in the tie break.
They took the second set, but a determined Broomhill got the upper hand in the third, winning it comfortably.
At first couple, Jamie McDonald and Steve Losh found themselves serving for the first set at 5-4 in what seemed a routine match for the top pair.
Jamie and Steve may have taken the set for granted as they appeared to let their concentration slip as Broomhill stole the set from them 7-5.
The Helensburgh pair soon got their act together and took the next two sets 6-0, 6-2 with some outstanding play.
At second couple Bobby Kerr and Robert Dunbar took the opening set 7-6 in a nail biting battle with two of Broomhill's most experienced players.
Robert overstretched early in the second set and pulled a muscle. This severely restricted his mobility around the court and the scond set went to Broomhill 6-4.
Knowing how important a win was to the Club, Robert and Bobby changed tactics and dug deep to secure the final set 6-4 in their closest match of the season.
Final score a 5-4 win for Helensburgh.
On Sunday, Helensburgh were up against Broomhill again, this time playing for a place in the final of the Senior Calcutta Cup, which is made up of three singles and, if required, four doubles. The first team to take four rubbers wins.
In the singles, Jamie McDonald was playing number one for Helensburgh due to the absence of Steve Losh, who had coaching commitments in Edinburgh.
Jamie started off well taking the first set 6-0. He soon got embroiled in a shot for shot tussle with the Broomhill number one, and the long rallies took their toil on both players in the afternoon heat.
Jamie had lots of chances, but his opponent had answers for every shot and they soon found themselves in a tie break.
The thought of a third set must have been at the front of Jamie's mind as he polished off his tormentor with a number of great passing shots and took the match.
At number two Alan MacBeath struggled in his first set, just winning it 7-6, but made up for it in the second set as he took it 6-1.
At third Andrew Irving brushed aside his opponent 6-2, 6-2 in under an hour with a dazzling display of powerful serves and penetrating volleys.
In the doubles, fourth mand Bobby Kerr teamed up with Andrew Irving and the pair soon had the upper hand, winning the first set 6-0 in under 20 minutes.
They let their concentration slip a little in the second, bu they soon wrapped up their tie to win the all-important fourth rubber and take Helensburgh into the final for the second year in a row.
The final is scheduled to be played on Saturday June 18th, but this date is still to be confirmed.
(From an article that appeared in the Helensburgh Advertiser - Thu. June 9th 2005)
Saturday 14th saw over 75 children sitting down to their picnic lunches at Helensburgh Lawn Tennis Club.
And, once fed and watered, that event was then followd by mini-tennis fun and games in the afternoon.
The Club programme regularly features events that are designed to improve the childrens' hand/eye co-ordination and ball skills and these are proving to be hugely popular and successful.
The youngsters, divided into teams, took part in a variety of drills and exercises under the watchful eye of Head Coach Steve Losh and his valuable band of coaches and adult helpers.
All the children received stickers from the National Mini-tennis sponsor Ariel and the winning team was awarded medals for their outstanding performance on a very hot afternoon.
(From an article that appeared in the Helensburgh Advertiser - Thu. may 19th 2005)
Helensburgh Ladies' firsts faced a tough encounter at former premier division Broomhill recently.
Katie and Ann, at first couple, raced through the first set 6-0, but were worn down and lost the next two.
Katie and Yolande lost their first set but turned it rounf to win the other two 6-1, 6-4.
At third pair, the two Alisons won their rubber by all their three sets, to give Helensburgh an overall 8-3 victory. Results: Katie Fulton/Ann Morison lost 6-0, 5-7, 3-6: Karrie Walters/Yolande Trewhella won 3-6, 6-1, 6-4; Alison Parlane/Alison Pace won 7-5, 7-5, 6-1.
Helensburgh were delighted to have a dry evening for the first round of the Scottish Cup competition against Milngavie. The local side had won all rubbers to be 3-0 ahead after the first round.
The second was also emphatic for Helensburgh when they collected all three matches to emerge overall winners by six rubbers to zero. Results: First Round - Karrie Walters/Yolande Trewhella won 6-0, 6-1; Alison Parlane/Ann Morison won 6-1, 6-1; Liz Wylie/Joanna Gough won 6-1, 7-5; Second Round - Karrie/Yolande won 6-0, 6-1; Alison/Ann won 6-3, 6-1; Liz/Joanna won 6-0, 6-0.
The Ladies' first team had a convincing 11-0 win over Bearsden.
Ann and Katie had to work hard for theirs, but Karrie and Yolande sailed through for the loss of three games. Alison and Alison collected their first set on a tie-break, but took the next two. Results: Katie Fulton/Ann Morison won 6-2, 6-2, 7-5; Karrie Walters/Yolande Trewhella won 6-2, 6-0, 6-1; Alison Parlane/Alison Pace won 7-6, 6-4, 6-1.
The firsts were agonisingly close to a place in the National play-offs of the Scottish Cup, but lost out by one set to Clarkston in an extremely tight match.
After the first round things were looking good. Although Joanna Gough, deputising for Katie Fulton, and Ann Morison lost in three sets to Clarkston's first couple, Alison and Alison and Karrie and Yolande secured three set wins in their matches, putting Helensburgh 2-1 up.
The second round wasn't so positive. Clarkston's first couple ran out winners over Alison and Alison, but Karrie and Yolande took a win over their third couple. The whole tie hinged on the match between the second couples and , although Joanna and Ann battled away, they couldn't quite pull it off, going down in two sets giving Clarkston victory by eight sets to seven. Results: First Round - Karrie/Yolande won 1-6, 7-6, 7-5; Joanna/Ann lost 6-4, 3-6, 1-6; Alison/Alison won 6-2, 3-6, 6-3; Second Round - Karrie/Yolande won 6-1,6-2; Joanna/Ann lost 4-6, 3-6; Alison/Alison lost 1-6, 1-6.
Helensburgh Ladies' fourth team had an excellent victory against Bishopton 2. Judith and Jill lost the first set, but took the next two comfortably.
Rona and Jane were unlucky not to take all three sets, losing the third in a close tie-break.
Agnetha, playing for Helensburgh for the first time, played well with her partner Maggie and they picked up all three sets to give Helensburgh a 7-2 victory. Results: Judith Reilly/Jill Fulton won 6-7, 6-3, 6-2; Rona Foster/Jane Carroll won 6-3, 6-3, 6-7; Maggie Sheen/Agnetha Nyblom won 6-2, 7-5, 6-2.
The Ladies' fifths had another fine win playing at home to Uddingston.
New Club members Joanna Crumless and Lynda Sprenger took all three sets. Janette and Cathy lost the first set but took the other two.
Ann and Sharon at second couple lost the first set but took the second, before losing the third. Results: Janette Howieson/Cathy Gemmell won 4-6, 7-5, 6-3; Ann Hunt/Sharon McKay lost 2-6, 6-3, 3-6; Joanna Crumless/Lynda Sprenger won 7-5, 7-6, 6-0.
(From an article that appeared in the Helensburgh Advertiser - Thu. may 19th 2005)
The Helensburgh Ladies' third team started the season with two good 6-4 wins, which is most encouraging.
On April 21st against Craighelen 2, Yvonne McFarlane and Carol Matthews had a real battle with two tie-break sets but lost 3 sets to 0.
Our second couple, Elaine Sinclair and Joy Michie, fought hard to secure three sets comfortably.
On Thursday May 5th, against Kirktonhill, Yvonne McFarlane and Elaine Sinclair had a hard match, going down 2 sets to 1.
Aileen Evans and Joy Michie had to fight for the first set ending with a tie-break, and managed to win all three sets.
Val Pace and Louise Burnet had a hard tussle and won their match 2 sets to 1.
(From an article that appeared in the Helensburgh Advertiser - Thu. may 19th 2005)
Helensburgh lawn Tennis Club was blessed with a fine, warm afternoon when it threw open its doors on Saturday for Play Tennis Day.
This annual initiative, sponsored by the Lawn Tennis Association, is designed to increase the numbers of children and adults playing tennis.
The Club was rewarded with a turnout of more than 80 children and adults, ranging from the age of four upwards, and all participants thoroughly enjoyed the two hours of fun and games.
Activities on offer included the ball machine, serving practice, footwork drills, target practice exercises and many, many more !
Halfway through there was a very necessary break for fresh fruit, juice and biscuits and the whole event concluded with a prize-giving ceremony - no child left empty handed.
There was praise for HLTC's Head Coach Steve Losh for organising such a successful and varied event, enjoyed by so many, and for the coaches, parents and junior helpers who so willingly gave up their time to assist and encourage.
(From an article that appeared in the Helensburgh Advertiser - Thu. may 5th 2005)
Helensburgh first women's team enjoyed a comprehensive but hard fought win over Thorn Park in the second of their Summer league matches last Tuesday.
The two Alisons at third couple faced an experienced pair but over three close sets they did well to collect the first and last, narrowly losing the middle one 6-4.
Yolande and Carrie played their usual attacking game and after a tight first set, they both got stronger and more accurate and won all three sets.
At first couple Katie and ann faced a tough battle against two hard-hitting youngsters, not afraid to go for the ball and rush the net.
Having been behind all the way through the first set, and several set points down, the Helensburgh pair were delighted to win the tie-break 7-0.
With a very strong wind making accuracy difficult, Helensburgh focused on making their opponents play as many balls as possible and this tactic paid off when the home side collected the two remaining sets to give Helensburgh an overall 10-1 victory. A really good team effort from all players and a great start to the season.
Results: Katie Fulton/Ann Morison won 7-6, 6-2, 6-1; Karrie Walters/Yolande Trewhella won 7-5, 6-3, 6-2; Alison Parlane/Alison Pace won 6-3, 4-6, 6-4.
(From an article that appeared in the Helensburgh Advertiser - Thu. may 5th 2005)
Helensburgh LTC's men's fourth team started the Summer with a good win against Esporta Glasgow's thirds at Milngavie.
At first couple Steven Humphreys, playing his first match for the team, paired up with regular Mike Wright and narrowly lost by two sets to one, losing the deciding set on a tie-break. Score 7-5, 3-6, 7-6.
Charles Carver rejoined the team after a year out and he partnered Alan Naismith in a tight game, winning the first set on a tie-break and the second set 7-5, before generously allowing their hosts to take the third set 6-2.
Fraser Gough was also playing his first match for the seniors and settled in quickly. He and Andrew Morison got the better of their opponents 6-1, 6-0 before letting them take a 3-0 lead in the third set. However they pulled themselves together and rattled off the next six games without reply.
This 6-3 win was an encouraging start to the season and the newcomers played a large part in the success.
(From an article that appeared in the Helensburgh Advertiser - Thu. may 5th 2005)
Over 100 children turned out on a Saturday recently for a morning of fun and games at Helensburgh Lawn Tennis Club.
The Club was holding its annual open weekend and there was plenty on offer for all ages.
The youngsters were split into teams and completed in various "It's A Knockout" events, with winners receiving medals.
The morning ended with a couple of games for the parents, much to the children's amusement, and a Davis Cup style exhibition singles match between Alan "Andy Roddick" MacBeath (USA) and Jamie "Tim Henman" McDonald (GB).
(From an article that appeared in the Helensburgh Advertiser - Thu. April 28th 2005)
Helensburgh Tennis Club is holding monthly tournaments for its mini tennis silver and gold children, and this month it was the turn of the younger red children to experience a taste of match play and competition.
Twenty youngsters were divided into four boxes, everyone played everyone else in their group and the first chilf to reach seven points won the match.
After some close ties the four semi-finalists emerged - Mathis Burlet, Calum Alcorn, Caris Brown and David Abraham.
Again, the semi-finals were very tight, with nothing to really separate the children. Eventually Calum beat Mathis 7-6 and Caris beat David 7-5.
The finalists competed well and although Caris displayed impressive serving, it was Calum's slightly greater consistency that eventually enabled him to run out the winner 7-5.
On a lovely sunny afternoon all the children thoroughly enjoyed the tournament and Caris and Calum were worthy medal winners.
Many thanks to the adult helpers and to coach Jamie McDonald for organising the event.
(From an article that appeared in the Helensburgh Advertiser - Thu. April 28th 2005)
Helensburgh LTC held the first of its monthly childrens' tournaments on Saturday (26/2) and was blessed with a beautiful afternoon.
At the end of virtually every month throughout 2005 the coaches will be organising either a Mini Tennis Red, Orange, Green or Silver/Gold tournament.
The idea of these little tournaments is to introduce the children to competitive match play in a friendly, familiar and relaxed atmosphere.
The season got off to a flying start with seven Green children taking part in the first event - Robbie McDonald, Fiona Burnet, Atlanta Wright, Jack Keating, Douglas Jagger and Fraser and Lewis Marrison.
All the participants played against each other and there was an impressive selection of talent on display, combining accurate serving with consistent rallies.
However, after counting up the final games score, Douglas Jagger was level with Lewis Marrison on 12 games but had won their head to head contest, was declared the runner-up, and the winner's medal was awarded to Robbie McDonald with an excellent score of 15 games.
Many thanks to coach Jamie McDonald for organising the event.
The next tournament will be on March 19 for the Silver/Gold children.
(From an article that appeared in the Helensburgh Advertiser - Thu. March 3rd 2005)
For the fourth time in seven years Helensburgh Lawn tennis Club collected the Winter Knockout Shield on Sunday with an excellent 3-1 win over holders Hamilton.
Katie Fulton and Ann Morison raced through their match for the loss of only two games, whilst the men, Robert Dunbar and Alan MacBeath, despite some chances in the first set, lost out to David and Ian Wilson.
Over this winter competition Katie and Ann - ably supported by Yolande Trewella in the final, and Katie by Karrie Walters in the semi-final - have been in impressive form, losing only 12 games throughout the four rounds played.
With all to play for in the mixed doubles, Katie and Alan were in dominant form, never letting their opponents into the match and wrapping it up quickly 6-1, 6-2.
Ann and Robert toiled a little longer, but also secured a win in two straight sets to give the Suffollk Street side victory by three rubbers to one.
Well done team - a great performance !
Results:
Katie Fulton/Ann Morison won 6-0, 6-2 Robert Dunbar/Alan MacBeath lost 4-6, 3-6 Katie Fulton/Alan Macbeath won 6-1, 6-2 Ann Morison/Robert Dunbar won 6-1, 6-3 (From an article that appeared in the Helensburgh Advertiser - Thu. Feb. 24th 2005)