By Ruth Concannon
Dusting off the rackets for the new year, Kerry players were straight back to action after the Christmas break in the Munster Closed Championships in the UL Arena on Sunday the 5th of January for grades C, F and H players.
A large representation of 24 players travelled from Ballyheigue, Kingdom (Castleisland), Killarney, Listowel, Moyvane and Annascaul clubs.
Fergal Hannon of Listowel opened the winnings for Kerry played two incredibly close 3 setter games in both the semi-final and final of the men’s C grade singles. He claimed the runner up spot just being pipped by Cork’s Cormac Meegan in the third set.
Fergal Hannon from Listowel receiving his runner-up prize in the Men’s Grade C Singles Championship in UL Arena
In the Grade C mixed doubles, the Kerry combination of Niamh Hickey (Killarney) and Tom Burke (Kingdom-Castleisland) again faced tough competition in a Cork pairing who were both targeting the treble in the Grade C’s.
It was to be Cork’s day and after a close three setter the Kerry pair had to settle for the runner up spot.
Special mention to the growing Division 5 contingent who travelled from Ballyheigue and Moyvane, between them they reached two semi-finals and I’m sure there will be even more travelling next year!
Listowel TournamentÂ
The Listowel tournament which has been run annually since 1972 takes place this coming weekend. Unlike most club events in Kerry the Listowel tournament is played over two days and includes Masters Event (over 45’s) along with all the usual grades from 1 to 5.
The action gets underway at 10.30am on the Saturday for the combined Division 1 and 2 players which is open to both Kerry players and those from outside the county. The Masters event and Division 3 competition will commence from 2pm.
On the Sunday Division 5 is scheduled to get underway from 11.45am and division 4 from 2.30pm. Entry forms have been distributed to each Kerry club secretary. For extra details contact Miss Margaret Healy at 087 9604361 or at mgthealy@hotmail.com.
