Ross lifts gold in singles grade

After the festival-type action of the badminton mixed pairs during the weekend, things got a lot more intense for the singles action yesterday.

Most of the badminton competitors at the New Zealand Masters Games prefer the fun style of play in the pairs and mixed pairs competition, so those who took the court yesterday were the types to take this game seriously.

"It's the hardcore of the total entries, it's only 25 per cent," said co-ordinator Graham Feist, who would win silver in the open 65+ grade. "Singles are a lot, lot harder."

More physical too, as Palmerston North's Rose Wapp collapsed when racing for a low shot in her open 35+ game.

While sitting calmly, Wapp required ambulance assistance after a tough achilles injury.

"That's her season," Feist said. "Last year we had no match stopping for injuries. It's just one of those things."

Wanganui District Council CEO Kevin Ross followed on from his victory in the mixed pairs to claim the gold in the open 55+ grade.

Results:

35+ Open: David Wasley (Feilding) 1; Richard Kirby (Wellington) 2; Michael Robertson (Kapiti Coast) 3.

45+ Open: Grant DeMenech (Paraparaumu) 1; Khonsawath Jaiyawong (ACT) 2; Greg White (Wellington) 3.

55+ Open: Kevin Ross (Wanganui) 1; Pat Heskett (Levin) 2.

65+ Open: Val Cleaver (New Plymouth); Graham Feist (Wanganui) 2; Neville Lomax (Upper Hutt) 3.