2026 PRESIDENT’S Vs CAPTAIN SHIELD CHALLENGE

First played in 1992, the 2026 instalment of the President v Captain’s Mixed Doubles Challenge was another great day at the Club. Historically the Captain’s team has long-dominated the wins, but the President’s team finally broke the drought with victories in the past two years, meaning Club Captain Andrej was determined to right the ship this year.

After immersion in team motivational videos for weeks and some intense planning for his ideal ten male/female pairings (Best backhand/forehand combo? Volley partners? What to do with the lefties? Young gun with old savvy veteran?), Andrej let his team loose and boy did they come out firing!  They quickly built up a solid lead which only firmed as the afternoon wore on.  50 matches and 400 games later, the Captain’s team had a crushing win 229 games to 171 – one of the biggest in recent memory.  Shout out to Fiona Woolley and Andy Gardner who were the best team on the day. In their five eight-game sets, they won 30 out of 40 games for the Captain’s team. 

Thanks to the 40+ members who played with Careel Bay spirit and sportsmanship, to Duncan, Ivor and Greg for their dexterity in manning the electronic scoreboard, to our wonderful Social Committee for the fantastic food that kept us going all day and to our Masterchef Chris for the spectacular veggie meal that ended the day on such a high.

Back to the drawing board for President Steve for 2027!