16 year old tears up the record books to win the Hunstanton Tennis Tournament

Charlie Swaine became the youngest ever winner of the Men's Singles Open at this year’s Hunstanton Tennis Tournament in its 102-year history.

Epitomising the phrase ‘a young head on old shoulders’, the talented teenager deployed a smart strategy, tweaking his all round game plan, to outwit his opponents, on his way to a memorable victory.

The 16 year old Bristol based youngster, who attends Bath University Academy, had to do it the hard way though, firstly beating top seed Philip Peters in the semi-final before overcoming last year’s winner, Tom Davenport, in the final (6-3, 6-2).

Women’s Singles Winner - Alice Gamman

In the Women’s event, last year’s champion, Emma Mastin, was beaten in a three-set semi-final thriller by Izzy Morgan-Evans. Morgan-Evans then lost to second seed, Boston based Alice Gamman, in the final (6-1, 6-0).

The weather was kind this year, although storms on the final day meant some finals had to be cancelled, mainly in the veterans' competitions, with finalists having to share the relevant titles. Various refreshment stands and a marquee bar kept all the spectators suitably nourished and refreshed.

The tournament, sponsored by law firm Birketts, took place from Saturday, 19th to Saturday, 26th August. With participants travelling from across the country, nearly 900 players, ranging in age from 6 to 83, took part. With over 1,000 matches played across the week - making it one of the largest tennis events nationally outside of Wimbledon - it is always a logistical challenge for the organisers. 

Chris Holt, who runs the event with his many volunteers and helpers, was extremely pleased with the smooth running of this year’s tournament. Credit must also go to Groundsman, Jonny Ives, who ensured the finely manicured courts were maintained to the very highest standard.

Girls' U12s Finalists - Kitty Baker and Lois White with organiser Chris Holt

Hunstanton Mayor, Michael Ruston, was on hand to present all the trophies. 

Despite sleepless nights and sometimes working until 2am, Chris Holt is already looking forward to the 2024 event with the closing words, “See you all again next year”.