Stephen Mulliner wins the GC Open Singles Championship

[<<] [>>] by Tim King at Southwick
27 Jun 2010 (GC - Championships)

Stephen Mulliner returned to winning ways in the GC Open Singles Championship, his previous victory being in 2001. Since then, Reg Bamford has dominated, taking the trophy on seven occasions (the missing year being when the winner of the World Championship at Southwick was also awarded the GC Open title).

The crowd was robbed of the dream final when Tim King defeated Reg in the semi-finals. Reg had been pushed hard by Mark Hamilton (one 13th-hoop game), Ivor Brand (losing one game in their block match) and Charlie Von Schmeider (in the quarter-finals), so the result was perhaps not a complete surprise. Reg was below par with several aspects of his game but showed true Champion's resolve with two long-range shots that made Tim sweat that bit more than he would have preferred. However, Tim held his nerve to record a notable victory.

In the final, Tim started as he had left off with his shooting but, although Stephen lost his hoop-running rhythym, the latter did not panic and eventually exerted control.

Howard Cheyne confirmed his credentials as one of the top newcomers to the sport, reaching the semi-finals and being one of the most consistent players in the past two seasons. In the plate, his younger brother Nick lost on the 19th hoop to Ray Mounfield in the final. Nick is only in his first season and will no doubt soon be pushing hard at the top level too.

Sussex County were excellent hosts, the club providing delicious catering and enthusiastic spectators. CA President Quiller Barrett attended Sunday afternoon, praising the quality of play and expressing delight at the emergence of a talented pool of younger players.