It was never in doubt.
The Ed Dunlop rounder’s team, having impressed in the preliminary rounds, ran out emphatic winners of the Stable Staff rounder’s at Newmarket on Sunday afternoon when defeating David Simcok's team. The Boss had advised his players pre-tournament that only victory would suffice and they didn't disappoint.
The final squad featured Ash Williams, Csongor Gulyas, Harry Burns, James Johnson, Lewis Richards, Robin Trevor-Jones, Sophie Smith, Skye Gilbert, Scott McGeorge and Tory Hayter. Everyone played their part, although Harry was the star turn in the final, scoring four times on his way to man of the match honours. The game was not without drama either, as RTJ pulled up lame some way from the finish and will need to pass the vet before he can run again.
This thrilling victory was the culmination of a weeks long tournament in which former first-class cricketer James Johnson - one of our pupil asisstants at La Grange - has skilfully skippered the team to glory. The captain's class was on show in every match and he was rightfully proud of his troops after lifting the trophy, commenting:
"It’s been a pleasure to captain this side over the last month or so. Everyone has played a big part, even those who were not on the field playing supported us immensely in our quest to be crowned rounders champions. Lastly, we should not be forgot the effort of the team at racing welfare, who have put into organising this tournament, so we send our many thanks to them.”
Such has been the success of the rounders team that they have no intention of resting on their laurels. Rather than waiting for the 2020 tournament, our team are keen to get back out on the pitch again as soon as possible, and welcome challengers from rival yards/studs that think they might be able to lay a glove on us. Anyone listening?!
Once again a big thanks to the Racing Centre team for all the hard work they put in that enabled the activities to go ahead. We were also involved in the football and tug of war on Sunday afternoon, and a great time was had by all.
Here’s to next year!