A great turnout of 40 players entered for the first of the four qualifying opens to find eight players to play the top professionals when they visit in August. Eleven non-registered players entered, including two ladies. Players from the West Mainland, South Ronaldsay and three from Westray all took part, although none of them figured in the later stages.

Erlend Ritch did get as far as the quarter-finals and by the semi-final stage, it was very familiar faces who won through. Brian Moar came from 2-0 down to beat Willie Bremner 3-2 and Stevie Linklater overcame Ivan Leslie 3-1 in the other semi-final. So, both Brian and Stevie will to the oche at Pickaquoy. Stevie won the play-off 3-2 in a very close game.

The only 180 recorded came from father and son Robbie and Sean Stanger. There were high outs shots of 114 from Mike Bain and Stevie Linklater who also had a 104.

So, it is on to the second qualifying on Friday, in the Commodore and, of course, Stevie and Brian can¹t take part, as they have already qualified. Service buses going past the Commodore on Friday leave the Travel Centre at 6.15pm and 7.15pm. Players taking the 7.15pm one are asked to telephone the Commodore on 781788 to enter their names before the list closes at 7.30pm.

Registration books are very slow going out this year. Remember, books must be in the secretarys hand by AGM time, with at least four names registered. Only teams registered will be included in the draw. Books are available from the secretary, Jim Scollie.


RESULTS
FIRST QUALIFYING OPEN SINGLES
Semi-final ­ Brian Moar 3, Willie Bremner 2; Stevie Linklater 3, Ivan Leslie
1.
Final ­ Stevie Linklater 3, Brian Moar 2.

FIXTURES
Friday, May 27
SECOND QUALIFYING OPEN SINGLES
In the Commodore, at 7.30pm.

Saturday, June 4
THIRD QUALIFYING OPEN SINGLES
In the Masonic Club. at 7.30pm.