One of the highlights of the club calendar, our annual Handicap Finals Day 2026 once again brought together members for a fantastic day of competitive tennis in Reigate. From first-time finalists to experienced competitors, the event showcased everything that’s great about Reigate Priory Lawn Tennis Club – friendly competition, outstanding sportsmanship and a welcoming community atmosphere.
The day began with first-time finalist Kelly P. taking on handicap veteran Barbara P. in the ladies’ singles, while new member Gary C. partnered former Chairman Graham B. against established duo Glen W. and Duncan H. in the men’s doubles. Both matches featured entertaining rallies, excellent net play and plenty of competitive tennis. Kelly claimed the singles title, while Glen and Duncan took the doubles crown.
Next up, experienced team players Magda D. and Mars H. faced new pairing Beth W. and Kim J. in the ladies’ doubles. At the same time, first-time handicap competitor Ian C. took on former Handicap and Open champion Josh H. in the men’s singles.
The increasingly windy conditions made life challenging for players, umpires and spectators alike, with balls, hats and even food being blown in every direction! After a marathon contest, Magda and Mars’ experience eventually shone through to secure the ladies’ doubles title, while Ian produced a superb performance to overcome Josh in the singles.
The final match of the day saw Mars H. and John R. take on Claire W. and Ian C. in the mixed doubles. Battling even stronger winds, both pairs produced some outstanding tennis, with powerful serving, clever slice play and dynamic exchanges at the net. Claire and Ian ultimately lifted the trophy after an excellent contest.
The atmosphere around the club was fantastic throughout the day. A huge thank you goes to Hilary for the teas, Francis and his team behind the bar, Bill and Mars for the BBQ, our umpires Hilary, Duncan T., Frank, Peter H. and Simon, and everyone who came along to support our finalists.
A special thank you also goes to our Club Captain, Claire, for organising another fantastic tournament for everyone to enjoy. Events like these take weeks of planning and a huge amount of behind-the-scenes work, and we’re incredibly grateful for all the time and effort Claire puts into making them such a success.
A special mention also goes to Amar for capturing some fantastic photographs throughout the day. We’ll be sharing a selection of these in our next email newsletter, so keep an eye on your inbox!
Finals Days are always a highlight of the calendar at Reigate Priory Lawn Tennis Club and a wonderful opportunity to get involved, whether as a player, volunteer or supporter.
Please save the date for our Open Tournament Finals Day on Sunday 6 September. If you’d like to help on the day, we’d love to hear from you, please contact Club Captain Claire W.
Congratulations to all our Handicap Finals finalists!
Kelly P. (-40/30) def. Barbara P. (0) 10–4
Ian C. (-30) def. Josh H. (-50) 10–2
Magda D. & Mars H. (-40) def. Kim J. & Beth W. (0) 10–8
Duncan H. & Glen W. (-40) def. Graham B. & Gary C. (-15) 10–4
Ian C. & Claire W. (-40) def. John R. & Mars H. (-30) 10–6
If you’re looking for a tennis club in Reigate, Reigate Priory Lawn Tennis Club offers tennis for all ages and abilities, with grass and artificial clay courts, expert coaching, social tennis and competitive tournaments throughout the year. New members are always welcome.
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