The Isle of Wight Association’s annual hardbat tournament, held at the T. Tennis Centre in Smallbrook, attracts enthusiasts looking to recapture the spirit of table tennis’ bygone era. This year’s event saw 23 players test their skills with the traditional wooden bats.
In the singles final, Alex Rorke, one of the island’s top players, emerged victorious after a hard-fought match against 17-year-old Ryan Cates, a rising talent with a promising future. The doubles event proved equally entertaining, with Ryan Cates partnering Peter Clarke to triumph over the duo of Glenn Morley and Nicky Dando.
The tournament served as a nostalgic celebration of the sport’s roots, when table tennis was played exclusively with hardbats. Participants and spectators alike reveled in the opportunity to reconnect with the game’s rich history and the unique challenges posed by the traditional equipment.
The event’s success underscores the enduring appeal of table tennis and the passion shared by the island’s devoted community of enthusiasts. As the curtain falls on another memorable hardbat tournament, the stage is set for next year’s celebration of the sport’s timeless allure.
🔗 Source
