By an interested observer
The 2024 US 40’s Singles & Doubles was contested at the Racquet Club of Chicago from March 22nd – 24th. We had 4 players travel to Chicago from New York, Boston and Washington DC. There was another 4 Chicago players joining the guests in the field. The two strongest players in the field, Todd Meringoff and Alex Spence, looked like they were going to be tough to beat as they both have lower handicaps than the field and had given themselves time to get some practice to get used to the court. One of the matches of the tournament was in the early rounds – the battle between local player Greg Pearce and our guest Ryan Carey. The match contained unbelievable retrieving, fantastic shot-making and power from all areas of the court. The swinging volleys and target hitting entertained the cocktail party crowd thoroughly and after nearly 2 & ½ hours, Ryan finally prevailed. The final score was 4-6 6-5 6-4.
Todd Meringoff and Alex Spence made it through to the singles final in an orderly fashion, both securing straight set wins in the earlier rounds. The final was a close match with many long rallies as both players were clearly familiar with each other’s games. There were a few uncharacteristic errors from each player as both sometimes changed their mind at the last moment when realizing where there opponent was positioned. Todd displayed a bit more precision and served extremely well in the match to keep Alex’s forcing at bay. He managed to secure the win, the final score being 6-3 6-2. After a quick drinks break, both players made their way back to the court to contest the doubles final against locals Greg Pearce and John Pak. Todd and Alex were the more experienced pair but John and Greg displayed some fantastic forcing and great volleys to extend many games. Ultimately, Todd and Alex were a bit too strong on the day for Greg and John and ran out the victory 6-1 6-1. Thanks to who traveled to Chicago for the tournament and thanks also to Racquet Club General Manager Richard Duggan, Athletic Chairman Baker Thompson, Tournament Chairman Adam Inselbuch, and Head Chef Mike Coronel for his delicious meals throughout the weekend and also to John Cashman and Steve Virgona for marking the tournament.
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Todd Meringoff & Alex Spence
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John Pak, Greg Pearce, Todd Merimgoff & Alex Spence
