With only two rounds remaining in both divisions of open grade fixtures at the Leichhardt Park Table Tennis Centre, the stage is set for close finishes in both sections, where the premierships will be decided on a first-past-the-post basis.
In the top section, the current frontrunners Joel Coughlan and Erica Nolan hold a three-point lead over Matthew Pettett and Nolan Hao. Coughlan, in particularly good form this season, has contributed significantly to their lead. Rayden Smith and Relly Pingol, along with Dane Coughlan and Ann-Louise Stewart, share fourth spot, trailing by an additional four points. This upcoming round is crucial, as a strong performance by the Coughlan-Nolan pairing could make them difficult to overtake for the flag.
The second division promises an even more exciting finish, with three sides vying for the lead throughout the season. Pam Clarke and Geoff Geddes currently hold a slender one-point advantage over Leo Lai and Linda O’Sullivan. Allan Clarke, who missed the support of his number-two, Patricia Green, in the last round, has fallen a few points behind in third place. While Clarke's team hopes for strong victories and some losses for the leaders, it seems likely that the battle for the premiership will be between Clarke and Lai’s teams. Although there is only a ten-point gap separating the entire field, earlier different outcomes could have resulted in different positions at the top.
Detailed fixture results can be found at the following link: https://www.rockhamptontabletennis.com/fixtures-v2
The busy state tournament calendar continues, with the Mackay club hosting its annual open championships this weekend at the impressive Bridge Road playing centre. Members of the Rockhampton club have traditionally enjoyed success and the competition at this carnival, and it is hoped this will continue over the weekend.
Following the Mackay championships, the state veteran titles will also be held in Mackay in mid-July. Local players interested in representing Rockhampton at this event need to register their interest with the local club. Details are available at the local playing centre, and while players must nominate for their individual events online, all team entries must be submitted by the clubs.
Apart from the open grade fixtures at the Leichhardt Table Tennis Centre on Campbell Street, players of all standards and ages can access playing and practice opportunities. Sessions are held on Wednesday mornings from 9:00 to 11:00 am, Thursday evenings from 7:00 pm, and the popular Saturday afternoon session from 2:30 to 4:30 pm. These sessions offer plenty of competitive games for both regular and casual players.