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| 14 Mar 2023 | |
| Society Sport |
The 21st Old Cheltonian Gold Racket, Friday 10th – Sunday 12th March 2023
Report by Mr Mark Briers, Cheltenham College Rackets and Cricket Professional
The ladies started the weekend off with three groups of four pairs playing against each other. This was followed by two semi-finals and a final won by Emilia Davis (W, 2021) and Georgie Willis, defeating India Deakin (W, 2019) and Honor Cockcroft.
Saturday morning consisted of four groups of four pairs playing in a round robin format. Some fantastic matches over the day meant we were running over time, but the group, quarter and semi-finals finals were all played in the normal competitive friendly style that has made this event popular over the years.
Two semi-finals concluded Saturday’s play and onto the black-tie dinner with forty-seven in attendance. Speeches made by Old Cheltonian Tom Floyd (Xt, 2005), Cheltenham College Rackest Professional Mark Briers, and Tom Wigglesworth (on behalf of the non-OCs).
Van Hunks sparkling wine and frames were presented to the Ladies doubles winners Emilia Davis & Georgie Willis. Outstanding contribution to Old Cheltonian Rackets this season went to Max Dymoke (NH, 2017). Another superb dinner followed by the usual Saturday night shenanigans into Cheltenham, led by social secretary Tom Barton (L, 2011).
Sunday morning and eventually we saw eight pairs play for the mixed doubles ‘Also ran’ plate. Fantastic fun throughout, although chaotic at times and largely self-inflicted by alcohol intake! Joey Snell (L, 2008) & Georgie Willis took the honours defeating Emilia Davis & Peter Nicholson.
The men's final concluded the weekend with Jock Jamieson-Black (H, 2013) & Dylan Kent defeating Jack Dymoke (NH, 2012) & Tom Bomford to take the Gold Racket Cook trophy, Van Hunks Sparling Wine and frames.
Another busy and hectic Gold Racket with a possible record of over 50 matches played over a weekend of immense fun played in a fantastic spirit throughout. A final thank you must go to our sponsor for the weekend, Van Hunks Drinks, who provided the excellent sparkling wine for the drink’s reception and winners.
We look forward to next year and the 22nd Gold Racket. Serve up!