Narayan into men’s 35 and over finals

Chethan Narayan advanced to the 35 and over men’s open final after claiming his third consecutive victory when action continued on Wednesday evening in the Guyana Lawn Tennis Association (GLTA)/Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) Open Tournament at the GBTI Recreational Facility in Bel Air.

Narayan defeated Harry Panday 6/4 6/2, completing yet another easy victory. It was one those matches that had many rallies as each player was consistent; however, Narayan’s forehand proved to be the weapon that ended Panday’s chances of making the finals.

On court one Oswin Coggins launched an effort to secure his spot in the quarter finals of the men’s singles but was thwarted by Philip Squires who recorded a 6/1 6/1 win and furthered his bid for the title. Squires will now face number three seed, Gavin Lewis who has a fierce backhand and is having a great 2014 season on the court.

Chethan Narayan (right) and Harry Panday after their encounter
Chethan Narayan (right) and Harry Panday after their encounter

Newcomer Tracey Shamsudeen was defeated by the defending champion Nicola Ramdyhan 6/0 6/1 in their ladies singles match. Ramdyhan secured her spot in the finals and is awaiting the winner of the Gentle sisters’ (Afruica and Shawna) showdown.

Daniel Lopes, the number four seed, played with experience to win his match against Kijana Lewis 6/1 6/2. The game was solid hitting from the baseline with a few deft touches to volleys. Lewis saved a match point and broke serve after four deuces at 1/5 to take him to 2/5 but after that effort his resistance ended as Lopes did not waste more time. He now faces Andre Erskine in the quarter finals of the men’s singles.