Tin-Tin HO is aiming for a record-equalling seventh Women’s Singles title as the Mark Bates Ltd English Senior National Championships begin on Friday.
Last year, HO won her sixth national title, moving within one victory of Jill PARKER (HAMMERSLEY), the 1976 European champion, who holds the all-time record.
She will face tough competition, particularly from second seed Tianer YU, who pushed HO to seven games in last year’s semi-final. Also among the top contenders are last year’s silver medallist Jasmin WONG and Ella PASHLEY, both of whom competed alongside HO and YU for England at the European Championships Qualifying Tournament in January.
Notably, HO is the only past champion in the Women’s Singles draw.
Men’s Singles – Pitchford Targets Seventh Title
In contrast to the Women’s Singles, the Men’s Singles field includes four past champions, making for an exciting and unpredictable tournament.
Liam PITCHFORD, the top seed, is looking to secure his seventh national title, which would put him level with last year’s winner. The all-time record remains with Desmond DOUGLAS, who won 11 titles.
Among his challengers are:
- Tom JARVIS (former champion)
- Andrew BAGGALEY (former champion)
- Sam WALKER, who has finished runner-up five times
Doubles Events – Defending Champions and New Partnerships
- Men’s Doubles: Paul DRINKHALL & Sam WALKER defend their title, with JARVIS & David MCBEATH seeded second. PITCHFORD will partner with para player Ashley FACEY, forming an intriguing new duo.
- Women’s Doubles: HO & WONG enter as top seeds. HO is defending the title she won last year alongside Emily BOLTON. YU & Mari BALDWIN are seeded second.
- Mixed Doubles: HO will defend her title but with a new partner, JARVIS, after winning last year with WALKER.
Paralympic Medallists Lead Para Events
The championships will also feature Para competitions in Class 2-5 and Class 6-10. The four leading seeds are all Paralympic medallists:
- Aaron MCKIBBIN & Billy SHILTON (Class 6-10)
- Jack HUNTER-SPIVEY & Megan SHACKLETON (Class 2-5)
With top British players across all categories, the 2024 English National Championships promise to be a thrilling event, with records on the line and fierce competition throughout the weekend.
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