Top-tier padel event set to feature best of British

The island already has a history of hosting major competitions in the sport, but this is another step up and – according to the Guernsey Padel Club – is set to bring seven of Britain’s top 10 men and five of the leading women to the Route du Longcamps grounds.

These top guns will vie for ranking points and a £3,500 prize pool across the men’s and women’s open events, in which local players are also welcomed.

Guernsey international Rob West is jumping at the opportunity.

‘It’s great to have the highest grade of LTA competition on home soil, having those players come to us for a change rather than having to take yourself across to that level of competition,’ he said, ahead of partnering with Jon Young.

‘It will be great to test ourselves against players we do not normally play against.’

It is a cause that has united both Channel Islands. Pat Ogier is set to join forces with Scott Clayton, Jersey’s former Wimbledon doubles player, in another very capable pairing.

The two Laurens – Barker and Watson-Steele – form the top domestic women’s partnership.

Guernsey Padel Club stalwart Sara Woolland shares the enthusiasm for the event.

‘I think it’s really exciting for all of us here,’ she said.

‘We had a great Grade Two last year where we had a couple of the top British players, and this year we have stepped it up with a Grade One event with quite a big prize money pool – it really encourages them to come and compete.’

Club manager Andy Privett said they were ‘privileged’ to be hosting.

‘I would encourage everyone who is interested in, or plays, the sport to pop down over the weekend for a chance to watch some of the UK’s best players up close, as well as supporting our local players,’ he added.

Spectators are welcome at the NSM and SPF-supported event, which also includes tournaments in three veteran and two junior categories.