Christmas arrived early for Zach McGuire who achieved an impressive double during the final day of the Bermuda Lawn Tennis Association Holiday Clash at WER Joell Tennis Stadium on Saturday.

The 14-year-old Saltus Grammar School walked away with the boys under-14 and under-16 titles to confirm his potential.

McGuire defeated Tobiah Goodchild 6-4, 6-2 in the boys under-14 final to live up to the lofty expectations placed on his shoulder going into the AXA XL-sponsored event and he then punched above his weight to upset favourite Sebastian Pukk 6-4, 6-3 in the boys under-16 final to complete a clean sweep of titles.

Tristan Pettit won the boys under-16 consolation final 10-3 over Cyre Trott.

Poor weather wreaked havoc on the event and forced organisers to delay the start by a day.

“Despite the weather disruptions, the BLTA is pleased with the outcome of the tournament”, Michael Wolfe, the BLTA president, said.

“We had a wide range of levels in the various age groups, from first-time tournament players to some of our Junior National players. That was also reflected on the winner’s podium with some first-time tournament winners.

“The tournament was a success and we are thankful for the efforts of our tournament committee and our generous sponsors, AXA XL, for making it possible.”

Other youngsters enjoying success were Jaden Jones and Samantha Morgan who were crowned boys and girls under-12 champions earlier last week.

Ernest Bell and Will Britten won the boys under-12 and under-14 consolation finals while Devi Samuels was victorious in the girls under-12 consolation final.

Looking ahead to the new year, Wolfe added: “The BLTA is looking forward to a full calendar of tennis in 2023, starting with the BLTA’s Winter League Tennis event, which kicks off in January.”