GREAT SCOTT! A big shock at the Ulster Masters tournament as Daryl Strong loses the first Irish veterans tournament in three years. His conqueror in the final was an inspired Rory Scott who won 9-11, 11-9, 11-7, 5-11, 7-11. Rory’s defence was virtually impenetrable, while he was bold enough to pick off winners if Daryl played any loose safety shot! Rory had defeated Ruth McGilligan 3-0 and Des Flanagan 3-1 in the qualifying group, before defeating Joe Colvin 3-1 in the last 16, Tibor Pofók 3-1 in the quarters and Phil Wallace 3-1 in the semis. St. Anne’s David Irwin defeated evergreen Norman Nabney in the consolation event. The 40 /49 restricted had another shock as Rory Scott lost out to the talented Daniel Molzenberger in straight sets. The Women’s event was one of the closest encounters with countbacks required to see who had emerged from the group stages to the semi-final knockout stage. In the semis, Ger lost out to an imperious Anne-Marie Nugent, while Gillian Richardson defeated Senga Thompson in a five-set thriller. Anne-Marie continued her fine form in the final, defeating Gillian in straight sets. The favourite for the over 50s was Kevin Mackey. He comfortably progressed to the finals where he defeated surprise package Des Flanagan in straight sets. Dave Gibbons edged past Bryan Morrison to win the plate competition. In the 60s a similar journey was had by Philip Shaw who justified his top ranking by reaching the final. Norman Nabney had a good win over Branko Jakotevic in the semi-final. However, despite some outrageous points, Philip triumphed in the final in straight games. David Jacobson beat Bryan Morrison in the consolation final. A very competitive over 70s had Martin Pickles edge past Jim Storey in four sets in the final. Our thanks to Norman McBride, Dave Weatherspoon, Ollie, Peter and all of the members at Wellington TTC for hosting a very enjoyable event.