Table Tennis

Manawatu Times, Volume 60, Issue 67, 21 March 1935, Page 5

Table Tennis

MANAWATU ASSOCIATION’S REVIEW The report to be presented at the annual meeting of tho Manawatu Table Tennis Association states: — It is worthy of mention first that table tennis has made a rapid advancement during tho past season. From a financial and social point of view the season was ono of outstanding success. The majority of clubs enjoyed an increase of membership and the standard of play showed a marked improvement. Mention must also be made of the increaso in the number of lady players. Six teams competed in the A grade competition as against four the previous year, and nine teams were entered in tho B grade, this number being on a par with tho previous season’s. The Kelvin Grove Club were the winners of tlio A grade competition. Tho B grado section was annexed by Takaro after a play-off with Hokowhitu. A doubles competition for A grade teams was conducted for tho first time this year, Takaro proving the successful' team. There were nine clubs in all affiliated with the association.

Large entries were received iu the open championship tournament, a number of outside associations being represented. Tho winners were: Singles, A. Hay vice, of Wellington; runner-up, K. Longmorc, Wellington; doubles, A. Hayvico and K. Longmore; runners-up, G. and R. Tapp. The B grade championship was confined to members of B grade clubs affiliated to the M.T.T.A. and was annexed by L. Swcctman, with A. Dalo runner-up. Four representative fixtures were played. A visit was also received from a team of Wellington players in which Manawatu prevailed, but this was not of representative status. Although defeated in the majority of matches, valuable experience was gained by the local players. The first New Zealand national table tennis championships took place at Wellington during the 1934 season, a contingent of Manawatu players competing. The association extends its congratulations to Miss L. Hughes, runner-up in the ladies’ championship singles, who with R. Dennis, of Wanganui, was successful in winning the final of the mixed doubles championship.

As a finale to the season, the association held its second annual banquet and dance. On this occasion tho function was held on a more ambitious scale, and although financially a slight loss was shown the evening was attended by conspicuous success. Opportunity was taken at the gathering to present the trophies won in the season’s play and also to make a presentation to Mr C. McLaren in appreciation of his services as secretary since the association’s inception. Owing to pressure of other duties Air McLaren found it necessary to tender his resignation. Tho association has to record with appreciation the untiring efforts in the interest of table tennis on the part of Mr McLaren as secretary. In conclusion, tho association extends its sincere thanks to Air 11. Collinson, a vice-president, for his unstinted 1 support to tho game, to tho Press for the liberal prominence accorded the play at all times, and also to any others who have assisted to further the interests of table tennis in the Manawatu.