2024 Newcastle Open – Sunday, August 18th, 2024
The Newcastle Open of 2024 had been run and won with 28 players contesting in the Patricia Room at Club Charlestown.
Regular cross border raiders Simon Woodhead and Joanna Kerynia from Queensland and Greg Ash from the ACT were joined by Reece McLean from Victoria and a host of Sydneyites, including first timer Yalli Pleshet and a returning Alex Ivanovski, to battle the locals. Amongst the local players were three first time tournament players, Katie Cherrington, Greg Singleton and Kristine Claffey.
Seven groups of 4 were drawn for the qualifying rounds with all winners going through to the knock out Final 8. The eighth spot was drawn from the second placed players, Carol Wakelin being the wildcard.
Congratulations to John Symon (Sydney) on defeating Newcastle’s Dave Bower in the Final. John took the winner’s prize money along with the $20 Bonus Pool. The first time $50 Bonus pool was shared between the losing semi finalists, Steve Clarry and Robert Disney.
The Consolation tournament for those, who missed the Top 8 was fought out between Newcastle players Gerhardt Macor and Mick Dyett with Mick taking the spoils.
Thanks to NBC Secretary Sharne Dyett, Treasurer Michelle Taubman and Julie Singleton for their assistance on the desk ensuring the smooth running of the tournament organization. Also to Club Charlestown, as always, for hosting the event.
Final grid available at https://www.newcastlebackgammon.org/OpenDetails.html
Regards
Robert Disney
