WELLINGTON TITLES

Press, Volume CI, Issue 30007, 17 December 1962, Page 21

WELLINGTON TITLES

Gerrard, Miss Cox Win (N.Z. Press Association) WELLINGTON, Dec. 16. L. A. Gerrard took the first step towords maintaining his dominance of New Zealand tennis when he won the Wellington men’s singles yesterday from I. S, Crookenden, 6-3, 6-4, 9-7. Gerrard and Crookenden won the men's doubles from J. R. Souter and R. M. Hawkes, 8-6. 6-1, 6-3. On their semi-final form Crookenden looked to be in a position to topple Gerrard, but the latter’s play m the final rose to the occasion. He did not give Crookenden any time to settle himself for his ground strokes as he continually took the ball on the rise and came to the net. The pressure was always on Crookenden. The volleying errors in Gerrard’s earlier matches were eliminated and on many occasions he buried the ball for a winner. Miss S. Cox won the women’s singles today and in doing so handed out to Miss J. Davidson, the current New Zealand champion and 1962 overseas tourist, the worst thrashing a reigning champion has ever received. In a 22-minute debacle in which Miss Davidson won but 19 points. Miss Cox raced home 6-0. 6-0. Only three times did games go to deuce. Miss Cox has twice been New Zealand champion. Miss Davidson made amends in the women’s doubles when she and Miss M. Johnston teamed admirably to win from Mrs M. Painter and Miss Cox, 6-2. 6-1. Miss Johnston was the outstanding player, finishing off many rallies with excellent volleying. Miss Davidson’s fast returns of service and strong serving indicated that her singles form was not a true reflection of her ability.