https://www.newsofthearea.com.au/port-stephens-pickleball-club-quartet-impress-at-inaugural-barrington-coast-tournament-at-taree

PORT Stephens Pickleball players Tony Mayers, John McDonald, Kevin Bell, Christine Johnson and Cheryl Sanderson have continued their on court success.

The Nelson Bay-based group brought home another swag of medals recently after competing in the inaugural Barrington Coast Pickleball Doubles Regional Tournament at Taree.

The tournament was organised by Halliday’s Point Pickleball Club – one of the most progressive clubs in NSW – and played as an outdoor event on the nine dedicated Pickleball courts (previously tennis courts) that the club acquired with the support of local Council.

Port Stephens Pickleball Club stalwart Mayers told News Of The Area, “Tournament officials led by Sheila Capperauld, Paul Boniface and their many volunteers welcomed almost 150 players from Sydney to Ballina.

“Our club members overcame blustery conditions on the Sunday to turn in medal winning performances,” he revealed.

Despite a tough draw, talented Tony teamed up with John McDonald to win gold in the Men’s Doubles 50+ under 3.49 category.

A determined Bell and partner Steve Tindall (Caringbah South) toppled strong opponents in the 50+ 3.50 above division to earn a silver medal.

Cheryl Sanderson teamed with Oatley’s Hamish Robertson and performed strongly in the 50+ Mixed Doubles.

Mayers combined with Maria Hawes (Northern Beaches) to reach the quarter finals in the 60+ 3.49 under while McDonald and Lorraine Barr of Halliday’s Point teamed up to collect bronze in the same category.

It capped a fine tournament for debutant McDonald who returned home with gold and bronze medals.

Bell and Johnson joined forces to snare a silver medal in the Mixed category.

By Chris KARAS