Golden opportunity as lack of Prean opens up men's event

THE absence of Carl Prean could work in Guernsey's favour at next week's NatWest Island Games. The Isle of Wight table tennis star has been the dominant force in the biennial event on the five occasions that he has attended.

Having been the youngest England number one at 15 years old as well as being national champion three times, it is hardly surprising that in the past, other competitors at the Games have targeted silver.

A tournament with no Prean could boost Guernsey's chances of making the podium.

'We are hopeful of winning medals,' said GTTA president Derek Webb.

'The players are confident and if they perform to their potential, then they have a good chance.'

Half of the eight players selected to represent Guernsey will be making their Island Games debut. Rising star Scott Romeril is the youngest member of the team at 16 and he is joined by fellow newcomers James Lesbirel, Emma Webb and Carly Tucknott.

Phil Ogier and Phil Hunkin provide the experience in the men's quartet and Dawn Morgan and Helen Fooks in the women's ranks.

They have quite a lot to live up to because the Sarnians enjoyed their best Games by some distance on home soil two years ago.

In Beau Sejour's Sarnia Hall, Guernsey won seven medals: a gold, a silver and five bronze.

Sandwick School is the venue for this year's table tennis event. The sports hall can hold eight courts at the minimum size of 10x5m and there will also be warm-up tables in an adjoining area.

The Isle of Wight are traditionally among the front-runners and Webb warned of two other islands to watch out for.

'Gotland always do well. They are not as strong this year, apparently, but they have strength in depth,' he said.

'And Jersey, obviously, are usually there or thereabouts.'