02/06/2026
🎾 Club Member Spotlight – Karen Mitchell 🎾
Last week, one of our own, Karen Mitchell, competed in the prestigious ITF1000 tournament in Bournemouth in the 60+ age category, taking on some of the best senior players in the country and beyond.
Karen's singles campaign came to an end in the second round after an unfortunate draw saw her face the player who would eventually go on to reach the final. Despite the early exit, she showed her quality throughout the tournament and wasn't finished there!
In the Women's Doubles, Karen and her partner Alison-Hannah Taylor put together a fantastic run, winning four matches to reach the final. After taking the second set to level the match, the title was decided by a championship tie-break. In a thrilling finish, they narrowly missed out, losing 10-12.
Karen enjoyed similar success in the Mixed Doubles, partnering with Andrew Hutchinson. The pair won three rounds to secure their place in the final. Once again, they fought back to win the second set in a tie-break before the match was decided by another championship tie-break. In another incredibly close contest, they were edged out 8-10.
Over the course of five days, Karen competed in multiple matches on clay courts in soaring temperatures, demonstrating remarkable fitness, determination and skill throughout the week.
Karen is a valued and active member of our club, regularly representing us in the Mixed 2nd Division. Her achievements are a wonderful reminder that age is just a number, and that tennis can be a lifelong passion that keeps us active, competitive and enjoying the sport we love.
Congratulations, Karen, on an outstanding tournament. We are incredibly proud of you and your achievements! 👏🏆🎾
