It was a busy day for Cornish Badminton, with 4 teams playing at home and away last Sunday, and a mixed set of results for the 24 players of ages ranging from 17 to over 60.
The 1st team, missing key doubles player Tom Lyle, travelled to Crewkerne to take on the top Somerset side, who they had narrowly lost to in the home fixture before Christmas. Some close games and hard fought victories finally saw the team just losing 9-6, but gaining a valuable point in this tough Division 3.
The new young 3rd team, had a home match against table topping and unbeaten Sussex, who had come out well on top in their first match. Home advantage saw the Cornish players pick up two games and gain valuable experience, before the Sussex strength won the day.
Two vets matches also took place on the same day, with slightly better results – the over 60s travelled to Avon and comfortably won their game, and the over 40s took the long trip to Bournemouth to play Dorset, just winning a tight 6 all match on games count back, thanks to the battling 3 enders that both mens and ladies achieved, something of a Cornish speciality.
This last result was even more creditable, as the 40s team had had several last minute drop-outs due to injury and illness, and players stepped in to play at the eleventh hour. One of these was Dave Bartholomew, making his county debut with a 100% clean sheet.
Photo shows the Cornwall 40s team –
Left to right – Lorna Riggs, Martin Burley, Sue Biscoe, Al Riggs, Jan Santillo, Dave Bartholomew, Lynda Beer, Bob Bell
