On Thursday 22nd May, a packed CURTC was treated to an exhibition of tennis featuring world champion Rob Fahey.

Picture courtesy of Cambridge News

The first match teamed Rob with Jules Camp against Ed Kay and Jamie Giddens. Starting very confidently, Ed and Jamie raced into a 2-games-to-love lead of what was to be a very entertaining match. An at times full-blooded affair, the students showcased their abilities with great movement around the court to create some exceptional rallies and provide a compelling contest. Despite some ferocious hitting from Ed and terrific volleying from Jamie, the Rob ‘n Jules combo started to click and they eventually wrapped-up the match 8-3.

Next up was the turn of local hero (and housewives favourite), Scott Blaber to take on the feted Rob Fahey. The match lived up to its billing with some pulsating hitting from both players. With the early exchanges going Rob’s way, Scott’s tenacity started to pay off and he got back into the match midway, racking up points by more aggressive, direct hitting. With an increasingly vocal crowd behind him, Scott continued to offer some exceptional strokes, however Rob’s ability to return seeming winners time and again, combined with some outrageous control ultimately proved the difference and he won the match 8-5. The knowledgeable CURTC crowd appreciated the spectacle and witnessing at first hand Rob’s arsenal of improbable shots, in particular two stunning returns taken off the tambour and then played back onto the tambour to the server. His ability to read his opponent’s shots ensured that he was always in the right place, allowing him precious extra time on the ball. Such is the stuff of champions.

A sated crowd wandered off into the warm summer evening with much to savour, while a smaller contingent completed the night with a meal at the Castle Inn, joined by Rob and fiancée Claire Vigrass.

Our thanks to Kees for organising the event; Peter for marking and Scott, Jules, Ed, Jamie and of course Rob for playing. A thank you also to all the members and guests who turned up to create such a wonderful atmosphere.”