Edwards sends strong message in Road Tennis Open

Emar Edwards served notice of his title aspirations when he cruised past Raheem Nurse in the Round of 64 of the Barbados Road Tennis Open at Silver Hill on Saturday.

Edwards, a rising star in the sport, showcased impressive movement and shot-making, but it was his consistency that proved decisive. He dominated the first set and handed a sow to Nurse, 21-9. Edwards continued to control the match, eventually securing a 21-11 victory in the second. His ability to effortlessly cover the court and execute winners left many spectators wondering if he could be the eventual champion.

Rain interruptions disrupted the day’s play, but when action resumed, Edwin Ward staged a comeback to defeat Brommell Griffith 14-21, 21-14, 21-17. Adrian Scott was in commanding form, easily dispatching Rommell Forde 21-9, 21-7, while Dwayne Lynch  hardly broke a sweat as he cruised past Ryan Jordan 21-8, 21-14. Antonio Yearwood also advanced with a 21-14, 21-17 win over Marcellus Gustave.

Kirt Alleyne produced a thrilling comeback to defeat Trevor Ifill 17-21, 21-15, 21-18. Alleyne’s exuberant celebrations after the match were followed by a bold declaration that he would dethrone top seed Mark ‘Venom’ Griffith.

In another upset, Brandon Arrendell defeated promising left-hander Ezekiel Ward in straight sets, 21-18, 25-23.

Some of the top players in the tournament Mark Griffith, Shakeem Nurse and Darius Gaskin taking in the action.

Earlier in the week, at Diamond Corner, veteran Deighton ‘Pa’ Roach caused a stir with a comeback victory over Christopher Renee, winning 15-21, 22-20, 21-19. Dwayne Hope also secured a hard-fought win over Leon Carter, 21-13, 14-21, 21-18.

Other winners included Shawn Spencer, Marson Johnson, Abbie Clarke, Jael Greaves, Curtis Jones, and Mosai Williams.

The tournament continues at Dover Courts on Sunday. (CG)