Competition · 2026-09-06
Finals Day is always one of the highlights of the Sandal LTC calendar, and today's edition didn't disappoint — a reasonable turnout of members and families came down to Courts 3 & 4 to see this year's champions crowned.
The Junior Girls Final was a close, hard-fought battle between Eva Clark and Sia Gadsby, contested throughout in a fair and friendly spirit. In the end it was Sia Gadsby who came through, taking the title in a match that did real credit to both players.
A rain delay pushed back the start of the Junior Boys Final, but once the covers came off, the tennis that followed was some of the best of the day — the standard in the first set alone was outstanding. Max Clark got the better of Dara Fallon to take the title, with conditions improving significantly for the rest of the afternoon's matches.
Geoff Perrott and Vanessa Perrott were in dominant form in the VETS Doubles Final, proving too strong for a spirited but ultimately outgunned pairing of Patrick Bywater and Paul Thompson.
The biggest crowd of the day gathered to watch the Men's Singles Final, and it lived up to the billing. Max Clark, fresh off winning the Junior Boys title barely an hour earlier, brought real energy and belief to his challenge against defending champion Michael Samaan. It was a strong and spirited effort — but the wall that is Mike proved too solid on the day, and the reigning champion came through to retain his title.
The trophy stays with Michael Samaan for another twelve months — but on this showing, Max Clark won't be far away from adding his name to it in years to come.
A handful of events couldn't be completed in time for today and will now be decided on a second Finals Day on Sunday 26 September — including the Men's Doubles, VETS Singles, and Mixed Doubles finals. Details to follow.
Thank you to everyone who entered, played, umpired, or came down to support — Finals Day only works because so many of you get involved. See you on the 26th for round two!