Eight universities helped form an action packed three days of competing in both the Inter University Cup and the Handicapped Singles.

The group stages provided some thrilling games, with grills being smashed, serves being rolled and the bell in the winning gallery rung.

16 prevailed out of the group stages into the knock out stages of which five were represented by Middlesex. Another day, and another eight players prevailed into the quarter finals. Middlesex still having control of the draw with four players remaining.

2023 IUHS

However, come the final it was a shootout between Reuben Ard of Middlesex and Hugo Pennant of Durham. One set to eight to decide the champion. With the Dedans filled, mainly by the 16 person team of Middlesex, Peter called the handicap and the game begun. The score reached 5-5, before Hugo pulled away, winning 8-5.

Hugo Pennant, 2023 IUHS Winner

Reuben Ard, MURTC

Whilst what occurred on the court was a real success, as was that off the court. On the Saturday evening the CURTC hosted their annual Pol Roger sponsored drinks reception and dinner up in the viewing gallery. It provided both excellent food and drink but also a great opportunity to come together and socialise between the competing universities.

In addition, this whole tournament wouldn’t be possible without the organisational and logistical skills of the Cambridge team of professionals, who as always delivered a smooth running, competitive and memorable tournament. Finally, and perhaps most importantly it is important to thank the Dedanist’s Foundation for their continued financial support which permits all teams to not only train before the tournament but also enter the annual event. Without them the game wouldn’t be the same and hopefully the legacy can be continued, and the game of Real Tennis can be preserved or even better grow.

Cambridge 2023 over and out, see you all in 2024!

Hugo Pennant, Durham University