It had been 16 years since RCTB-1899 had hosted a CTC senior competition. The club’s 125th anniversary celebrations prompted a return that impressed the visiting teams and was rained out.
The last time RCTB-1899 hosted a CTC senior competition was in 2008. Sixteen years later, on the occasion of the 125th anniversary of the Barcelona club, the CTC Seniors 50/60 Real Club de Tenis Barcelona-1899 took place from 6 to 8 September, but the rain prevented a winner from being crowned. However, this did not dampen the good atmosphere and camaraderie that prevailed at the meeting with LCTK Prague (Czech Republic), Carrickmines Lawn Tennis Club (Ireland) and Tennis Club Padova (Italy).
After the welcome cocktail and the draw for Friday’s matches, it was time to take to the court. LCTK Prague overcame Carrickmines Lawn Tennis Club in Saturday’s semi-finals, while RCTB-1899 beat TC Padova. A gala dinner in the restaurant’s lounge brought the day’s play to a close, pending the crowning of the champion.
The rain had other plans for the final. It didn’t let up until after 9am, so the organisers decided to move the third-fourth place play-off between the Irish and the Italians to the indoor court, but the visiting teams’ schedules meant it couldn’t be completed. The Carrickmines members did not hesitate to take advantage of the opportunity to try padel, which is very popular in their country but not very widespread. They loved the experience.
Thanks to the excellent work of the RCTB-1899 team, the final was able to start at around 11am on six courts. Only one match could be completed, and it was a clear victory for LCTK Prague, thanks to Iva Simunkova, formerly Budarova, winner of the Conde de Godo Trophy. The rest of the matches in progress were cancelled as the rain returned with a vengeance.
But nothing could dampen the spirits of the participants, who were impressed by the facilities at RCTB-1899 and grateful for the hospitality they received.
