John Boys Challenge 20th October 2024

OCs v Hyde Tennis Club

The fourth year of this prestigious event took place at Canford, spiced up by the presence of three Old Bryanstonians in The Hyde team. It was a great event which also enabled those present to celebrate John Boys' 90th birthday! A full match report can be found on the

The OC team consisted of Barry Coupe (F70), Corin Fisher-Jenkins (C90), Cleeves Palmer (C80), Simon de Halpert (F64) and Rob Awford (M75).

Match 1 (Doubles) In Cleeves Palmer's own words 'the only thing close about this match was the weather…' as The Hyde took an early lead winning 6/2, 6/1.

Match 2 (Singles) Cleeves for Canford redeems himself spectacularly to level the contest winning 6/4, 6/1.

Match 3 (Singles) Corin Fisher-Jenkins took an early lead only for a 'sweaty court' to call proceedings to a halt. Some additional ventilation later and Corin cemented his lead to win 6/2, 6/1 and put Canford back ahead.

Match 4 (Doubles) A thrilling and tightly fought contest, which went into a short (from 3/3) third set, with The Hyde clinching it 6/5 to level the tie.

Match 5 (Singles) Simon de Halpert produces a master class to put Canford back in the lead winning 6/1, 6/2.

Match 6 (Doubles) The Hyde dominated this contest winning 6/3, 6/0 to level the encounter once again and bring the match to a decider.

Match 7 (Singles) This was effectively a Canford v Bryanston tie and was extremely close with Canford just edging it 6/5, 6/4 and winning the cup for Canford!

Talking to John Boys, my former Housemaster, I was amazed at his recall of past matches and personalities.

Thanks to everyone who attended and to Cleeves for organising.

Report by Rob Awford M75