Barwon reigns supreme at Inter-regionals

THE region’s tennis representatives proved why they boast regional Victoria’s best talent, following a landmark win at the 68th Inter-regional Country Championships in Benalla.

Barwon Tennis outperformed five other country regions and helped make up the 206 players in attendance last weekend over three days to claim the crown.

There were more than 400 matches played over the first two days, but inclement weather hampered finals day action on Sunday.

Barwon collated 303 points at the championships, edging out Loddon Campaspe’s 265.5 points.

Goulburn rounded out the top three with 258 points, Mornington concluded the event with 217 points, South West claimed 180 points, and Wimmera was the lowest scoring region with 178.5 points.

Mornington Peninsula also left Benalla with the Most Improved Shield.

The Men’s Open Singles was an all-Barwon showdown as Adam Lasky defeated fellow clubman Taj Cayzer in straight sets 6-4 6-2.

Matt Hicks and Adam Lasky took home the Men’s Open Doubles, while Mikaela Mullen and Nicole Mullen earned wins in the Women’s Open Doubles.

David Kos won the Men’s’ Singles 50+ event and doubled up with wins in the Men’s Doubles alongside Mark Robinson.

Young gun Jake Bucek was victorious in the Men’s 18 and Under field with a 6-1 6-3 win over Barwon’s Rhys McNabb.

Matilda Sutherland was crowned champion in the 16 and Under age group with a straight-sets victory and Lotti Macdonald was victorious in the 14 and Under field.

“The competitions were well played and in great spirits with many team managers making a point of the fantastic attitudes, team spirit and fairness that all players displayed on and off court,” a Tennis Victoria spokesperson said.

The 2025 Inter-regionals Country Championships are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.