40- 50 year old middle teams
become conspicuous
Japan's likely strongest rivals Chinese Taipei exchanges with other countries flourishing with many international
tournaments. Japanese teams were invited to play in the"1st WGU Chairperson's
Trophy Japan-China Tournament" held on November 27th last year in Taipei.
A total of 19 teams form Japan participated; 15 form Aichi and 4 form Kumamoto.
53 local teams participated. At first, 4 teams took part in a league competition
on 18 courts with the top 2 teams proceeding to the knockout tournament. However,
out of the 36 teams only 2 Japanese teams advanced. The local teams garnered the
top positions. On saying that, there are many players in their 50s in Taipei and
their passion and dedication to play was impressive.
The Chinese Taipei team which advanced to the final tournament of last year's
World Championships was composed mainly around players in their 40s and 50s. Their
average GB experience is 11 to 12 years. Though most players have a job and complain
they can practice only once every two weeks, these middle-aged players were conspicuous
at this tournament. There is no doubt that they are likely to be strong rivals
for Japan.
The Chinese Taipei team which advanced to the finals tournament of the World Championships
last year
The Chinese Taipei teams tactics and techniques were by no means inferior to
Japans top-class teams
Female player makes the players vow at the 1st WGU Chairperson's Trophy opening
ceremony
18 natural grass courts laid out
Participant's comment
Surprise at the speedy pace of the game Kumamoto team
The Kumamoto team was composed of members who took part in the Australia Championships
and enjoy playing overseas. There are many young players in the Chinese Taipei
team and I was surprised at the speedy pace of their game. The Kumamoto team of
which I was a member reached the 2nd round of the finals tournament which was
the best result among the Japanese teams. Many of the members of the Taipei team
speak Japanese and chatted friendly with us about many things which was very enjoyable.
(Kumamoto GB Union, Chief Director, Nakashima)
The local team wins the tournament
About 100 members, including supporters, from Japan
