Malcolm cops Great Tennis title

Richard Bryan, Gleaner Writer

Ocho Rios-based number-one seed, Nicholas Malcolm, sketched his name on the inaugural Locker Room Sports-sponsored Great Tennis Event Over-35 men's singles title, after defeating Glenford Harris 6-4, 6-1) in the final at the Liguanea Club in New Kingston on Sunday.

Malcolm won 6-4, 6-1 with groundstrokes that were too good for Harris, who consistently played well over two days, but was worn out after his two-and-a-half-hour semi-final battle against his student, Ruddy Armstrong, just 90 minutes prior to the final.

In that semi-final game, Harris prevailed 5-7, 6-3, 6-2.

Malcolm, in his post-match interview, said that he came with a 'game plan' and executed it to its fullest. Malcolm said that he knew it wasn't going to be an easy match as he had had many battles with Harris in their prime.

"I had an early break and took control of the match," Malcolm said.

Disappointed

A disappointed Harris said that he played an error-filled game, which led to his demise.

Malcolm received $25,000 and a trophy for his effort, while Harris pocketed the second prize of $15,000.

Mel Spence who lost to Malcolm 6-3, 7-5 in the semi-final was given the Howard Chin trophy for being the most disciplined player of the tournament.

Meanwhile, David Shirley, managing director of title sponsor Locker Room Sports, thanked players, associate sponsors, spectators, and all who contributed to the success of the event. He also encouraged more people to start playing the game.

"Learn the game of tennis. It is a sport for life," he said.