Venkatesh, Sirisha tennikoit champs

D Venkatesh and K Sirisha emerged as the overwhelming champions in the men and women categories of the 3rd Senior Inter-District Tennikoit Championship at GHMC Amberpet Play Ground. Both the final clashes went the distance as the opponents, N Rakesh and B Priyanka, came up with gritty performances to make a match of it.

Meanwhile, based on their individual performances, all through the tournament, six men and an equal number of women were picked for a coaching camp. The eventual State team, which will be held in the city from November 6, will participate in the 42nd Senior National Tennikoit championship to be held at Cuttack from November 19 to 23.

Later, former Rajya Sabha member and President of Telangana Tennikoit Association V Hanumantha Rao gave away the prizes in the presence of members of the Organising Committee and coaches.

Teams: Men: D Venkatesh, N Rakesh, Teja, Praveen (all Hyderabad), Anil (Medak), B Punnam Chander (Warangal); Women: K Sirisha, B Priyanka (both Hyderabad), Hemalatha, Chandana, Veena, Jyothi (all Khammam).

Results: Finals: Men: D Venkatesh bt N Rakesh 22-20, 20-22, 21-18; Women: K Sirisha bt B Priyanka 20-22, 22-20, 21-18.