CQS 4 NATIONS TROPHY

Roger Ambrose made an Honorary Member of IC Ceske Republiky…

Result: IC of GB Winners
Event Date: Wednesday 10^th – Sunday 14^th June 2015

The 2015 edition of the CQS 4 Nations Trophy was held at the Prague I.CLTK Tennis Club and was particularly well organised by Jiri Medonos and Helena Sukova from the IC of Czech Republik. In addition to GB and the host Czech team, the other participants were Hungary and USA.

The GB team comprised 6 men (Jeremy Woods, Brian Snapes, Roger Ambrose (Capt), Roy Henderson, Trevor Davies and Tom Naunton Morgan), 4 ladies (Lena Keothavong, Rosie Naunton Morgan, Felicity Thomas, Suzanne Marland), and two supporters (Susan Ambrose, Gordon Thomas).

Due to the variety of ages & playing standards and particularly the disparity in numbers a non-conventional format was successfully used, ensuring men's, ladies and mixed matches were played that involved players of similar ages and playing standards. All matches were doubles and each match lasted one hour.

At the prize giving ceremony (as a result of a diplomatic "fudge") The IC of GB were presented with both the large permanent Trophy (which remains on site) and a smaller Cup to take away. Each team was also presented with a signed copy of Jan Kodes's biography and a small Plaque engraved "Prague, 10 - 14 June 2015 " with the team names participating.

From a contribution made by all British team members a presentation was made to Helena of a set of Wimbledon mugs and the J.Barrett History of Wimbledon to Jiri, which were well received.

The team Captain, Roger Ambrose was also made an Honorary Member of IC Ceske Republiky.

We must thank the event sponsor CQS who ensured two major events were organised, the first being the Official Dinner for 40 people held on a private river boat which enabled everyone to enjoy illuminated views of the City of Prague together with a nice meal.  The second event was more of a fitness challenge (luckily after the tennis was over) with a visit & tour of Karlstejn Castle situated an hour’s drive from Prague. This involved a half mile walk uphill from the car park followed by a two hour guided tour throughout the rooms as high as the turret, a further climb of 178 high concrete steps!

Sincere thanks should be recorded and sent to all those involved with the organisation of this event as well as the sponsor CQS. Other IC's are strongly encouraged to participate by notifying their Members well in advance of the opportunity so producing a strong and sizeable team. Those Clubs who are required to travel some distance are recommended to consider adding one or more additional matches to their itinerary to make a long journey more justifiable. These events do much to improve and cement International relations.