Bicknell, James crowned Bounty Invitational champions
AFTER DAYS of intense competition, Blaise Bicknell and Chandie James emerged as the overall champions in the Open and Amateur sections, respectively, at the Bounty-sponsored Invitational Classic, which culminated at the Couples Resorts Tower Isle and San Souci courts on Sunday.
Bicknell, the island’s number-one tennis player and top seed in the tournament, overcame compatriot and number two seed Randy Phillips 6-4, 7-5 to claim the top prize while number four seed James battled Maureen Williams and came away with her 6-3, 6-2 victory.
Bicknell had earlier got by Matthew Rodriquez in the semi-final after the latter was forced to retire following stomach problems, but the number-one seed was pleased that he was able to participate in the tournament and come away with the win.
“Both sets were very tight, and I believe Randy played well. I am glad that I was able to come down here and play on this surface, but there are some things that I still want to work on such as my return of serve and my backhand, heading into my next tournament, ”Bicknell said.
Phillips who ousted defending
champion David Goldsmith 6-0, 6-3 in his semi-final, said he was happy he could have participated in the tournament, which continues to grow from strength to strength.
“I think the tournament was run well, and congrats to Blaise for the victory. I must give credit to the organisers, Simon Casserly and tournament ref David Sanguinetti, for putting on a tremendous event,” Phillips stated.
In the meantime, a new champion
was crowned in the men’s class two category as defending champion Michael Sutherland had to retire in his final against Kyle Millwood, who was leading the contest 5-0.
The Class Three category went to Martin King, who overcame numberone seed Kenrick Picknight 6-3, 6-4.
The mixed doubles title went to Matthew Rodriquez and Kimloy Seraton Wint, and Pierre Battaglia and Fred Redpath took the men’s over-45 doubles title.