THE HUGHES CUP - MORE THAN A TENNIS TOURNAMENT

The Hughes Cup is recognised as one of the oldest tennis tournaments in New Zealand. First presented in 1925 by local baker and Pakuranga Tennis Club member Bill Hughes and his wife Lucy, the annual contest between our club and the Howick Tennis Club was held for the 101st time last Saturday.

The weather gods smiled on us; the tennis was most enjoyable on all levels for players and spectators alike and the close relationship we share with the Howick club was again evident with plenty of laughs and ‘high fives’.   

One of the day's most memorable matches featured the youngest pairing in the competition. At just 12 and 13 years of age, their combined age was only 25. Taking on one of the tournament's most experienced pairings, whose combined age totalled an incredible 132 years. It was a wonderful reminder that few sports can bring generations together quite like tennis.

Another highlight saw 19-year-old twin sisters representing Howick, showcasing the family connections that have always been woven into the fabric of the Hughes Cup.

At the ‘top end’ there was again some brilliant tennis demonstrated in a stunning set by our two clubs’ best players, that drew the largest crowd of appreciative spectators.

Pakuranga took the honours on the day, but the Hughes Cup has never been simply about determining the strongest team or lifting a trophy. Its true success lies in bringing our tennis communities together, strengthening friendships and celebrating the bond between our two clubs that has lasted so long. All of this was certainly evident last Saturday.

A huge vote of thanks to all participants for providing the yummy range of food consumed throughout the day and in particular Beth and Jenny for their tireless work in the kitchen.  Above all, Lucia is to be congratulated for the not inconsiderable task of co-ordinating the whole day, including team selection and making up of the Draw. Also, many others too numerous to name, who volunteered their time to ensure a most enjoyable and successful event!

Pakuranga Hughes Cup team:

Noel Funnell, Paul Tibbutt, James Li, Kevin Li, James Lin, David Chee, Paul Pu, Yu Dian Dong, Yu An Dong, Mac Chen, Jak Simpson, Denver Steele, Alvin Young, Gloria Young, Ching Kwok, Cynthia Chen, Gaja Vage, Kirsten Tighe, Di Butler, Leanne Klopper, Annie Ping, Cherie Liu, Jessica Zhou, Wing Kuang, Angie Rauf, Maggie Cheng, Roberta Snijders