Thame schoolboy tops the grade in Squash tournament

CHARLIE Lay of Barley Hill Primary School, Thame,  showed just how attention in lessons produces quality results when he won the squash B grade in Racquets March, One-Day tournament last Saturday (28/3).

Racquets squash coaches, Will John (left) and Sue Martin-Downhill (right) with the junior squash players

Charlie has been playing squash for three months,  learning alongside some of his school mates and others from Dinton, Cuddington and John Hampden schools.  Racquets coach Sue Martin-Downhill said: “‘Charlie shows a great understanding of the game and uses skill with the racket to beat his opponents.”

The runner-up in the same grade was James Carr, also from Barley Hill Primary School.  Sue said: “We find it amazing that James has learnt so much, as his concentration often seems to waver during lessons.  He played exceptionally well. The games in this grade were highly competitive but as all the entrants have become good mates, the spirit of the games was brilliant.

“Due to an improvement in standard by many of our players this year, the A grade included 12 players.  Previous winner, Luca Babb from Henley, sent his friend Art Lawton in his stead as school studies had taken priority, and Art produced the goods for Henley once again.  Art won the grade in a thrilling final against Racquets academy player, Nick Baker. ”

Sue continued: “We were very pleased with Nick’s form this weekend. His game play has become much stronger after playing more box league games and joining in these tournaments.”

Another previous winner,  Ollie Ralphs, was unable to play as he is on crutches following a football accident but it is hoped that will be able to take part in future tournaments.

Sue concluded: “We’d like to thank Meritus International Hotels for their great prizes once again.”