These two competitions, roughly equivalent to the ‘C’ and ‘D’ levels in squash, where most of the players in both games reside, were disappointing in terms of numbers, but the play was spirited and surprising.
The Wharton, the higher handicap event initially featured a draw of eight, but Bill Cartier defaulted, giving Dan Villiers a walkover, and Brenda Nardolillo defeated Ted, Martin (sorry, Boomer) in the lower half of the draw. The top half proved much more interesting. Ed Wadsworth, who pitched and played squash for Harvard in the fifties beat Jen Winthrop and Sam Dickerman upset Arnold Spangler in three hard sets.
In the semis, Brenda a former winner of this event lost to Villiers and Mr. Wadsworth giving over thirty-five years to his opponent, upset Dickerman in three well-played sets.
The finals were somewhat anticlimactic as Ed had nothing left but played gamely as Villiers claimed the Championship in two sets.
The Burke also started with a draw of eight but three no shows eased up the schedule.
In the top half, Mike McElroy, last years winner got a walkover and Ryan Carey, living nowhere near a usable court beat Jane Lippincott in two.
In the bottom half, Alex Spence and Bill Blalock both got walkovers, with Spence prevailing in the semis. In the other semi, last years finalists in this event squared off, with last year’s loser, Carey, winning handily over McElroy.
In the finals, Carey was in charge winning in convincing fashion over Spence.
As always, thanks to Tom Dobbins, Club manager, and Jimmy Burke, Club pro, for their efforts throughout the weekend. A cheery smile, an errant bagel and flawless markings are always appreciated.
