The Cranleigh under 12 tournament is an annual event which takes place in February each year. Started in 1988 by Richard Knight it has been the proving ground for many young players who have gone on to win National titles at different age groups. Among the illustrious past winners have been David King, Patrick Bird, Sammy Man, Alex Varma, Jamie Shamash and Jonathon Neophytou.

The running of the tournament has now passed from the Senior School to the Prep School and each year it is well supported by the Fives playing Prep Schools. The tournament has been dominated by Highgate Junior School who have won the title 13 times. Other past winners include Sunningdale with 3 wins and Ludgrove who have won once.

This year’s event was played against a snowy backdrop with entrants from 7 schools each bringing three pairs. After the group matches the competition divided into the main competition and the plate competition for those schools which don’t have the same exposure to the game. Both competitions were closely contested affairs and as always the most pleasing aspect to the day is watching the improvement in everyone’s play.

In the main competition Highgate provided 3 of the 4 semi-finalists reflecting their dominance of the competition over the years. Highgate 1 duly progressed to the final where they played a strong Sunningdale pair. The final was a good contest but the Highgate pair of Harry Hatchwell and Gregg Sulkin emerged as 2-0 victors. In the plate Ludgrove emerged victorious.

Finally just a word of thanks to all the participating schools for their support and we look forward to welcoming you all back next year.

M.H.

Cranleigh Under 12s 2003-2004 by Mark Halstead
Created 15th December 2004 by Mike Fenn
efa@etonfives.co.uk

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