by Ian Marshall, Editor

Furthermore, it was success for the host nation. Nathan Pellissier, Trevor Hirth and Joel Coughlan secured top spots without experiencing defeat.

Nathan Pellissier, the top seed, accounted for colleague Jake Ballestrino (11-6, 11-7, 11-7) and New Zealand’s Matthew Britz (11-2, 11-5, 11-4). Similarly Trevor Hirth, the no.2 seed, was in form. He beat Connor Holdback (11-6, 8-11, 11-7, 11-4) also from Australia, prior to overcoming Fiji’s John Christopher (11-7, 11-5, 11-4). Meanwhile, Joel Coughlan, the no.3 seed, prevailed in opposition to Tonga’s Iotili Loamanu (11-5, 11-3, 11-2) and when facing New Zealand’s Victor Kamizona (11-8, 11-2, 11-6).

First places determined, the question in the one remaining match in each group is as to who gains second place and thus progress to the main draw.

Similarly, in women’s singles class 6-10 where there are two groups in the initial stage of play, the leading names, both from the host nation, posting convincing wins in their one and only matches on the opening day. Both opened their accounts with successes against compatriots. Melissa Tapper, the top seed, beat Rebecca Julian (11-2, 11-4, 11-1), Andresa McDonnell accounted for Christine Wolf (11-4, 11-2, 11-4).

Outcomes as very much anticipated but in the one further event that witnessed play on the opening day, there was a surprise. In men’s singles class 3-5, Shadrack Timothy, the top seed, was beaten by Australia’s Caleb Crowden (11-8, 11-8, 11-8); an upset but not in the corresponding group, also from Australia, Chen Junjian, the no.2 seed and winner two years ago in Suva of the men’s class 2-3 title, was in no mood for charity. He beat New Zealand’s Patrick Todman in three straight games (11-2, 11-3, 11-2).

Play concludes in Darwin on Saturday 4th May.

Para Oceania Championships 2019: Latest Results & Draws