KNOWLES CUP by Ron Kemp

 

This years Knowles Cup (the handicap team competition) commenced in December 2008, and the final took place on 22nd June 2009.

 

20 teams of three entered, which meant 8 teams played in the first round, with the others gaining a bye into round two. Many close games were played throughout the tournament, and a number of 5-3’s and 5-4’s were seen. Best result of the tournament saw the Vics B team of Dave Newnham, Barry Joyce and Ray Ferris knock out at the semi-final stage hot favourites CPC Appley, consisting of Scott Lawson, George Downing and Simon Underhay 5-3. Dave won 2 out of 2, Barry 2 out of 3, and Ray chipped in with 1 to seal the match. Simon won two for CPC, and Scott 1.

 

The final saw Ryde off to a flying start, with Paul Freeborn and Jim Hall recording wins. Back came Vics as Ray Ferris beat Brian Farrelly in three games, but then three in a row for Ryde gave them the match and Knowles Cup. Many games went right to the wire, the handicapping system really working well, giving both team every chance of success, and both Dave Newnham and Barry Joyce came close to winning for their team.

 

Congratulations to Karen King for organising the event which ran throughout the season.