Weekly Results

GPTT Meet 3 (1/31/13)

GPTT Championship Match (vacant): (1) Byron Risner vs. (2) Cody Risner / 10, 8, 7, 10

Match for Top-10 Championship (vacant): Cody Risner def. Langley Franklin (3 games to 2)

Langley Franklin awarded Challenge Title (his 21st)

GPTT Meet 2 (1/24/13)

GPTT Thursday Round Robin

Group 1

1st Byron Risner  2-0

2nd Cody Risner  0-2

Group 2

1st Lance Stephens  2-0

2nd Jason Arnett (debut) 0-2

Doubles

Winners: Byron Risner and Johnny Johnson 2-0

GPTT Meet 1 (1/17/13) 

GPTT Championship Match: (c) Byron Risner vs. Jonathan Howard/ 9,7,-10,8,-9,-13,6 (Jonathan Howard wins 12th GPTT Championship)

Round Robin Results:

1st   Jonathan Howard  5-0

2nd  Byron Risner         4-1

3rd   Addison Whitt      3-2

4th  Greg Howard        2-3

5th  Langley Franklin     1-4

6th  Ashton Whitt        0-5

GPTT (Index Event 1) Meet 15/ Nov. 1, 2012

Open House---No official  Scores

GPTT (Index Event 2) Meet 16/ Nov. 8, 2012

1) LC Byron Risner def. Jonathan Howard:  -8, 8, 7, -9, -10, 12

2) Langley Franklin def. Cody Risner:  -5, 6, 7

3)  Jonathan Howard def. Langley Franklin:  4, 6

4)  Jonathan Howard def. Cody Risner:  -7, 7, 9

GPTT (Index Event 3) Meet 17/ Nov. 15, 2012

1) LC Byron Risner def. Cody Risner: 9, 10, 9, -11, -9, 5

2)  Josh Frisby def. Dewey Moore:  -8, 9, 10, -11, 15

3)  Doubles Title Match (title vacant): Dr. J and Legend def. Frisby and Cody Risner: 6, 7, 8 (new ch's)

Play beginning at Index (November 1, 2012)  Note: EKTT's final event at Paintsville, KY was on August, 20, 2012. 

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GPTT Event 2

Players and spectators gather for GPTT's second event at Paintsville

GPTT's second event at the Paintsville Recreation Center was a success as we were joined by Jonathan Howard, a 10-time EKTT League Champion, and his brother Wesley Howard, a six-time EKTT Division II Champion. Current Division II Champion Dewey "The Enforcer" Moore also returned at the event. It looks like Dewey and Brad Mullins are going to have one of the year's best rivalries based on their match at Event 2.

GPTT would also like to welcome Steve Thaman to the league. Steve is an experienced player who is going to help build GPTT's promising future. It's great to have him on board. Steve and Wesley Howard had a battle that went to the seventh game in a challenge match that saw Steve emerge victorious.

According to the GPTT Board of Directors, official league play will begin soon, possibly as early as this week, or next week. A new format must be approved before title matches, and official USATT League matches can take place.

GPTT is looking for players in the Paintsville, Prestonsburg, and Pikeville areas! We are preparing a facebook launch, no later than the end of May, and we need your help to get the word out to potential players in these areas. Remember, new players are welcome as well. We are open to the public.

We want to thank everyone at the Paintsville Recreation Center for the continued support of our league during what has been a historic transition.

Results from Meets 7, 8 and 9; Mullins loses and then regains the Interdivision Title from Steve Thaman

GPTT Meet 7 was held on Sunday, July 1, 2012 at the Paintsville Recreation Center. Brad Mullins lost the Interdivision Title (the league's second top championship) at Meet 6 (June 25), but regained it in a four game thriller at Meet 7, making Brad a 7-time Interdivision Champion. This is one of the league’s best new rivalries. Steve Thaman was awarded the Challenge Championship after losing the Interdivision Title---making him a tw0-time Challenge Champion.

GPTT League Champion “The Legend” Byron Risner successfully defended the league’s top championship against Brad Mullins at Meet 7, and against Steve Thaman at Meet 9. “Brad and Steve are strong players,” says Risner. “They are improving their trade every week. I enjoy competing against two players as dedicated as they are. There are a lot of people who call theirselves ‘players,’ but if you don’t show up, that moniker doesn’t hold up very well.”

Steve Thaman successfully defended the Challenge Title against Frank Stephens at Meet 9, held on July 8, 2012. Steve has a surgical backhand that wins a lot of points. Frank Stephens is moving up the ranks fast in GPTT and has his sights set on the Challenge Title.

Byron and Tracey Risner lost to Doubles Champions Steve Thaman and Brad Mullins at Meet 7. Brad and Steve are now 2-0 as GPTT Doubles Champs.

We continue to encourage everyone to join us on Sundays to play table tennis at the Paintsville Recreation Center. GPTT is continuing our rebuilding process and we want you to be part of it! We have air conditioning, which makes the sport even more enjoyable during these uber hot summer months. GPTT is about to announce a major recruiting campaign beginning on July 29…stay tuned for the details.News 5/13/12

News 7/8/12

Grand Prix Table Tennis----

Results from Meets 10 and 11

Steve Thaman is on a roll in GPTT. He has already captured 3 Interdivision Championships!

GPTT Meet 10 was held on Sunday, July 15 at the Paintsville Recreation Center. EKTT League Champion “The Legend” Byron Risner is now 5-0 during his 78^th reign as EKTT Champion. At EKTT Meet 10 Risner defeated Brad Mullins to retain the championship.
“I feel that this is one of the best rosters we’ve ever had,” says Risner. “They love the sport and come ready to play.”

Steve Thaman won his third Interdivision title from Brad Mullins at Meet 10. Their battle went to the fourth game in a five game series. The Thaman-Mullins rivalry is one of the best rivalries in EKTT.

Brad Mullins defeated “The Rock” Steve Patrick in a sweep to earn a shot at the Interdivision title. Patrick was upset with the loss. Patrick was never able to get into the flow of the match after nearly a year and a half away from the sport.

Tracey Risner won over Charity Hess. Charity has just started playing the Olympic sport of table tennis, and she is improving each week. Tracey has said that her goal is to win the Challenge Title (our third top singles title).

Steve Patrick and Byron Risner unseated Brad Mullins and Steve Thaman for their 25^th GPTT Doubles Championship. One player said, “Byron carried the team, there is no doubt about that. He was really on that day.”

Byron Risner and Tracey Risner defeated Steve Thaman and Brad Mullins in a thrilling doubles contest. The match went to the fifth and final game.

It should be noted that Brad Mullins was awarded the Challenge Championship at Meet 10 upon losing the Interdivision Title (our second top singles title).

GPTT Meet 11 was held on Sunday, July 22 at the Paintsville Recreation Center. “The Legend” Byron Risner retained the GPTT League Championship against Interdivision Champion Steve Thaman. This marked Risner’s fifth consecutive successful title defense at Paintsville.

Risner has held the GPTT League Championship since November 11, 2011 (294 days). The Legend holds all of the top 10 spots of the longest EKTT Championship title reigns.

GPTT Doubles Champions Steve Patrick and Byron Risner successfully defended their titles against Brad Mullins and Steve Thaman. However, Patrick quit the league on Saturday, June 28, leaving the doubles championship vacant. Some speculate that his comeback was not going as planned, including two losses, which may have resulted in his sudden departure. There will be a match or tournament to fill the vacant doubles title at Meet 12, on Monday July 30, 2012.

Steve Thaman retained the Interdivision title against arch rival and Challenge Champion Brad Mullins. Steve has helped get the league off the ground at Paintsville with his consistent attendance and top notch play. Brad Mullins retained the Challenge Championship from Frank Stephens. Frank earned the Challenge title match by scoring a shocking upset over “The Rock” Steve Patrick. Frank also won versus Charity Hess in singles competition.

GPTT Board Chairman Byron Risner announced that EKTT is planning on having a tournament in the near future at Paintsville. “We are looking into having our annual King of the Table tournament sometime in the near future; possibly in August or September. The tournament will be for players under the USATT 1200 tournament rating mark. Planning is in the nascent stages, but we will release more info in the near future.”

News 7/30/12/ Meet 12

Grand Prix Table Tennis----

Legend rolls to 6-0 at Paintsville;

Tracey and Byron Risner win GPTT Doubles title

GPTT Meet 12 was held on Monday, July 30 at the Paintsville Recreation Center. “The Legend” Byron Risner retained the GPTT League Championship by defeating Challenge Champion Brad Mullins in a best of seven series. Risner is 12-0 on the year, including title defenses and the 2011 Legends Ball Championship (which was played during the 2012 calendar year).

Byron and Tracey Risner won the vacant GPTT Doubles Championship in a contest vs. Brad Mullins and Steve Thaman. The title was vacant after Steve Patrick quit the league, and forfeited his half of the doubles title, which left the title up for grabs. This marks the first time in GPTT history that a husband and wife have won the League Doubles titles. Congrats to the new champions.

Steve Thaman defeated Brad Mullins to retain the coveted Interdivision title. Steve has won three Interdivision titles, one Doubles title, and a Challenge title since he debuted with GPTT. Impressive to say the least. Brad Mullins is ready to go after the title again next week as their rivalry continues.

Tracey Risner won over Charity Hess in singles competition. Challenge Champion Brad Mullins then successfully defended his title vs. Tracey to retain the title for the second straight week.

GPTT is always in the process of recruiting new players. Three to four players may be entering the club in the next few weeks. Remember, the first night is free, and each subsequent week is $4. Beginners are welcome.

GPTT is investigating the possibility of moving to Mondays, but nothing is official yet. The club is trying to get a set time and day for each week, making it easier to promote the club and establish stability.

News 8/20/12 Meets 13 and 14

Grand Prix Table Tennis----

Brad Mullins and Steve Thaman win 2nd Doubles Title

GPTT Meet 13 was held on Monday, August 13 at the Paintsville Recreation Center. GPTT League Champion ‘The Legend’ Byron Risner defeated Interdivision Champion Steve Thaman to retain the title and go to 14-0 on the year.

Challenge champion Brad Mullins won over Frank Stephens to retain his title. Byron and Tracey Risner retained the EKTT Doubles Championship against Brad Mullins and Steve Thaman. Tracey Risner won against Charity Hess.

EKTT Meet 14 was held on Monday, August 20 at the Paintsville Recreation Center. GPTT League Champion Byron Risner won a tough contest against Interdivision Champion Steve Thaman.

Steve Thaman and Brad Mullins won their second GPTT Doubles Championship by defeating Tracey and Byron Risner. Congratulations to the new champs.

Interdivision Champion Steve Thaman successfully defended his title in a thrilling match that went to the fifth and final game against Brad Mullins. Mullins took the first two games, only to see Thaman come back with a vengeance to keep the league’s second top title.

Tracey Risner won versus Charity Hess. Both Tracey and Charity continue to elevate their games each week. Challenge Champion Brad Mullins retained his title against Ryan Smith, who made his GPTT debut in the match. Ryan hasn’t played recently, but he is excited about getting back into table tennis and competing for GPTT. We would like to welcome him to our organization.

We want to let everyone know that we have locked in the club’s weekly meet day and time to Mondays, 4 to 7 pm. The first half hour is for warm ups, and the rest of the time will be devoted to matches. For more information, call or text EKTT President Brad Mullins at 606-369-4406. New players are welcome!

GPTT Meet 15, on August 27, will feature round robin singles play, with the top finishers getting GPTT title opportunities. It should be a fun, exciting, and competitive event. Players can sign up for the event by e-mailing us at gpttky@gmx.com GPTT Facebook is on the way! We want you to join our Facebook and help us spread the word about our organization. The Facebook site should be up in the next few weeks.

GPTT Meet 6 Results (6-17-2012)

GPTT Meet 6 was held on June 17, 2012 at the Paintsville Recreation Center. GPTT League Champion

"The Legend" Byron Risner successfully defended his title against Brad Mullins. Brad earned the title match by winning the vacant Interdivision Title (our second top championship) by defeating Steve Thaman. Steve and Brad have added their rivalry to some of the all-time greats in GPTT's 20 year history.

Steve Thaman and Brad Mullins captured their first GPTT Doubles Championship by defeating "The Legend" Byron Risner and Tracey Risner. It was a close series as the new champs won three games to one; with the fourth game going to the 15 point mark. It's exciting to see doubles play start up again. As many players will tell you, doubles is totally different games compared to singles...but it's a great deal of fun too!

Steve Thaman became the new GPTT Challenge Champion (our third top title ) by defeating Tracey Risner. Charity Hess won over Hunter Mullins in singles compeition. Both these young players are progressing their game at a rapid rate. Frank Stephens, a Paintsville area player, made his GPTT debut by defeating Tracey Risner.

GPTT will be playing this Monday, June 25, from 4:30 to 7 pm. It will be a USATT league event with titles on the line, and fun pick-up matches as well. We want to thank everyone at the Recreation Center for their continued support.

GPTT Meet 45/ 12-04-2011

Dewey Moore wins his 8^th Division II Title

Against Ann Colbert

GPTT Meet 44 was held on December 4, 2011 at the Morgan County Community Center. “The Legend” Byron Risner retained the league title from “Dr. J” Johnny Johnson. The two archrivals have renewed what is arguably the best rivalry in GPTT’s 20 year history. This marked the 94^th time that the two iconic players have met. Dr. J and The Legend combine for an astounding 100 GPTT Championships.

GPTT Doubles Champions Dr. J and The Legend retained their title for the 9^th consecutive time against Dewey Moore and “Tex” Cody Risner. Dewey Moore and Tex have become the top contenders for the league title since October. Although Moore and Tex have not won the titles, they have taken the champions to the seventh and final game on two occasions.

Dewey Moore won his 8^th Division II Championship by defeating Eastern Kentucky Open Women’s Champion 2011 Ann Colbert for the vacant title. Wesley Howard was not on hand to defend the championship, which resulted in the vacancy and title match. Moore has dominated the Division II title scene in GPTT over the last 15 months. “He is moving up the GPTT ladder of great Division II Champions,” says one GPTT insider.

Ann Colbert held the title for over two months this year, which added to the integrity of the title match. Moore is also the top contender for the GPTT MVP Award. The award is given to the player who attends the most GPTT events in the calendar year (minus board members and the club president). Dewey is also the GPTT Vice President.

“Dr. J” Johnny Johnson will be in the GPTT League Title match for the third straight week as he went 3-1 at Meet 44 including a non-title challenge match win over “The Legend” Byron Risner in their 95^th meeting. The Dr. J vs. Legend rivalry dates back to 1992. “Tex” Cody Risner won over Dewey Moore in challenge play, but lost to The Legend and Dr. J.

A correction to last week’s meet is that Jonathan Howard went 4-1 in singles competition. GPTT is conducting a month long recruitment drive to get in new players. If you attend GPTT for the first time during the month of December, you will get to play at two meets for free. New players may show up any time on Sunday from 3 to 6 pm. You can check us out on the web at www.gptt.org for more information.

GPTT’s special year end tournament The Legends Ball, this year will be the 20^th annual, will take place on January 21, 2012. This is the first time since the first Legends Ball that two Legends Ball tournaments will be held in the same year.

Meet 44/ 11-27-2011

Legend goes 5-0 and retains GPTT Championship

from Tex at Meet 43

GPTT Meet 43 took place at the Morgan County Community Center on Sunday, November 27, 2011. "The Legend" Byron Risner had one of his best playing nights ever as he retained the league championship versus Cody "Tex" Risner, and collected a 5-0 record, including a 16-1 games won-loss record. "It was a really good day for me. Sometimes the ball hits where you need it to, and sometimes it doesn't." It hit in the right spot quite a bit at Meet 43. His career best games won-lost record is a tie: 21-0 on four separate occasions.

Legend wins 78th GPTT Championship from Dr. J

    It was a thrilling meet at the Morgan County Community Center on November 20, 2011.  The league championship match pitted the new and 22-time GPTT Champion against his longtime rival “The Legend” Byron Risner.  It was the 91^st meeting between the two GPTT icons.  The Legend started out strong taking the first game, but the champion quickly responded to take games two and three.

 Risner took games four and five, but the “Doc” quickly answered to force game seven.  The Legend won a seesaw seventh game in deuce to become a 78-time GPTT League Champion.  The Legend now leads arguably the league’s all-time best rivalry at 53 matches to 38 matches over “Dr. J”.  But you know it still isn’t over by a long shot.  Dr. J vs. The Legend 92 will take place next week at Meet 42.

“Dr. J” Johnny Johnson and “The Legend” Byron Risner won their seventh straight league doubles title match by defeating Cody “Tex” Risner and Greg Howard four games to one.  “The league doubles record is in serious jeopardy if J.J. and Byron continue to team up,” says one GPTT player.  “They are going to be a tough team to beat with their combination of offense and defense.  It’s going to make the doubles division stronger too.” 

            Meet 41 ushered in a new era of league play as it began the Open Challenge/Title format system.  The open challenge system allows any player to challenge another player, and then the match will be rated according to the USATT League Rating system.  Champions will only defend their title once weekly, but that doesn’t mean that they can’t play for rating points otherwise.  “Dr. J” Johnny Johnson and “The Legend” Byron Risner rematched after their title match, which The Legend took in the fifth and final game.  The new format also allows new players to come into the league and get a feel for the game without being put in highly competitive round robins.

            (2) Dr. J defeated (4) “Tex” Cody Risner in singles competition.  Wesley Howard and Dean Fitzpatrick def. Tracey Risner and Tanner Bowling in doubles competition.  (6) Aaron Whisman def. (12) Tracey Risner in singles competition.  Dean Thacker def. Tanner Bowling in their GPTT debut.  Both these young players show a lot of talent and promise.  We look forward to having them back. 

Greg Howard made his return to GPTT at Meet 41.  Greg has been out of action due to a shoulder injury, but he loves the game and we are excited to have him back.  (6) Aaron Whisman def. (10) Wesley Howard to retain his Division II League Championship.  Aaron continues to impress and retain his title.  Dewey Moore and Wesley Howard are two of the top contenders for the Divison II Championship.  Wesley Howard will get the rematch for the Divison II Title next week.

            We play each week at the Morgan County Community Center.  Warm up and sign-ins are from 3:00 to 3:30 pm.  The first visit is free, each subsequent visit is $2.  Or, you can purchase a yearly membership for $50.  We are currently planning our year end tournament The Legends Ball.  The date for the event will be released next week.  Beginners are welcome at our club!  For more information visit us on the web www.gptt.org  or call (606) 662-6332.

GPTT MEET 42/ NOV. 20, 2011

Dr. J wins 22nd GPTT Championship from The Legend 

            “Dr.J” Johnny Johnson made league history as he returned to singles competition at GPTT Meet 41 on November 13, 2011 and defeated “The One” Josh May to become a 22 time GPTT league champion--- widely regarded as the top title in Eastern Kentucky.  There should be no doubt that the Doc still has “it”.  “ Johnny proved to everybody at this meet (Meet 41) that he is as tough and competent a competitor as he’s ever been.  He just beat three of the best players in league history tonight.  There is something to be said for that.”

 “Dr. J” lost to “The One” Josh May in round robin competition, but rebounded in a big way to win the league title in four straight.  Johnson is third on the all-time league title wins list, and he has held the league championship for the second longest period of time next to Byron Risner.  Hats off to this incredible athlete and Eastern Kentucky table tennis icon.

The Dream Team, “Dr. J” and “The Legend” Byron Risner beat Dewey Moore and Cody “Tex” Risner to retain the GPTT Doubles Championship; this makes five straight successful defenses by the doubles champions.  Josh May and Jonathan Howard defeated Dewey Moore and Cody Risner to earn a shot at the titles next week.

The treacherous group 1 round robin that led “Dr. J” Johnny Johnson back to the top of the mountain was one of the most talent laden since GPTT began the round robin concept in 2006.  Johnny Johnson took 1^st place going 2-1; Byron Risner finished 2^nd with a 2-1 record (Johnson took first because he defeated Risner in their singles match---which breaks the tie); Jonathan Howard was 3^rd at 1-2; and then GPTT Champion Josh May was fourth with a 1-2 record.  To illustrate how difficult the group competition was, it was the first time a league champion has finished fourth in a round robin.

“Tex” Cody Risner dominated the group 2 round robin and will be playing in group 1 next week---the winner of group 2 automatically moves up.  Cody Risner went 2-0 to finish 1^st; Dewey Moore finished 2^nd going 1-1; and Aaron Whisman took third.

Aaron got a measure of revenge later in the night as he won his first major GPTT Championship defeating Dewey Moore for the Division II Championship.  Moore and Whisman played some of the event’s most competitive matches.  Congratulations to Aaron as he takes the most important victory of his career by winning the Division II title.

Last week’s Eastern Kentucky Open was one of the most successful events in GPTT history.  We want to thank everyone who contributed to this groundbreaking tournament.  We are already discussing our next open tournament which will be in April.  More details on this next week.

We are looking for more players!  Novice to pro, and everyone in the middle.  If you would like to play some table tennis in a friendly environment come to the Community Center on Sundays from 3 to 6 pm.  The first night is free.  For more information, call us at 606-662-6332 or email us at gpttky@gmx.com  If you don’t like to play competitively, you will still find many great players to hit around with, or play pick up matches.  We also offer introductory sessions and coaching.  See you there!

GPTT Meet 41  Results  11/13/11

Doubles Champions: Byron Risner and Johnny Johnson (also GPTT Champion)

"Dr. J" Johnny Johnson def. GPTT Ch. Josh May to win his 22nd Championship

GPTT Doubles Champions Byron Risner & Johnny Johnson def. Dewey Moore & Cody Risner

Aaron Whisman def. Dewey Moore to win his 1st Div. II Title (title was vacant)n Results:

Group 1:  1st Johnny Johnson 2-1; 2nd Byron Risner 2-1; 3rd Jonathan Howard 1-2; 4th Josh May 1-2

Group 2:  1st Cody Risner 2-0; 2nd Dewey Moore 1-2; 3rd Aaron Whisman 1-2

GPTT Meet 40 Results: 10/30/11

Josh May wins his 2nd GPTT Championship;

Eastern Kentucky Open this weekend!

   GPTT Meet 40 was held on Sunday, October 30, 2011 at the Morgan County Community Center. Meet 40 was an exciting event that saw the crowning of two new champions.  Jonathan Howard retained his 10th GPTT Championship at Meet 39 against "The Legend" Byron Risner. 

Howard won the series four games to two, breaking the streak of four consecutive matches that went to game seven. 

      At meet 40, Howard was unable to attend, and the GPTT Title was put up for grabs in a three-person round robin featuring The Legend, "The One" Josh May, and "Tex" Cody Risner.  The electric round robin saw "The One" Josh May taking 1st place, going 2-0.  Division I Champion "The Legend" Byron Risner took second place and earned his spot in a match to determine the new champion.  The One edged The Legend in the fifth game getting a net and edge shot when the score was tied at nine to become the new and two-time GPTT Champion.  "It feels awesome," said May.  "It was a really tough match, and took everything out of me.  I've waited for this for a long time."

     Doubles Champions "Dr. J" Johnny Johnson and "The Legend" Byron Risner retained their titles against Cody "Tex" Risner and Dewey Moore.  The champs pulled out the series four games to two.  Josh May and Aaron Whisman beat Houston Howard and James Arnett to earn a shot at the doubles title at meet 42. 

Josh May and Aaron Whisman also won over Wesley Howard and Ann Colbert in doubles action.

     Wesley Howard went 3-0 to win group two, and the right to go on and play the Division II Champion James Arnett.   Dewey Moore, Steve "Rock" Patrick, and Ann Colbert all went 1-2.  However, Dewey won more games than Ann and "The Rock", giving him second place.  Ann Colbert was third as she won against The Rock.  Everybody was excited to see the Hall of Famer, "The Rock" Steve Patrick back in action.  His sites are once again set on the Division II Championship. 

     James Arnett had a big Sunday, going 3-0 and winning the group 3 round robin; in addition, he retained his Division II Championship vs. Wesley Howard.  Aaron Whisman made his return to GPTT and finished second in a grueling group 3 round robin.  Aaron edged out Houston to take second place in the group.  Aaron also took the Division II Champion James Arnett to the limit in the fifth and final game of their series.

     Some of the top players from West Virginia, Lexington, and Louisville are ready to converge on West Liberty this Saturday, Nov. 5 at  the Morgan County Community Center.  The first ever Eastern Kentucky Open singles championship will take place at 1:30 pm.  Group round robin championships will begin at 9:00 am.

We encourage spectators to attend but our seating is limited and it's filling up fast.  Please contact us if you would like to attend  via email gpttky@gmx.com or 606-662-6332.  No flash photography please.  Video recording is welcome.  If you have any interest in table tennis, this is a CAN'T miss event.  We hope to see you the meet.

 Howard wins 10^th GPTT Championship;

James Arnett wins his 3^rd Division II Title

      GPTT Meet 38 was held on October 16, 2011 at the Morgan County Community Center.  Jonathan Howard made history as he became a 10-time GPTT Champion by defeating “The Legend” Byron Risner who was on reign 77.  The rivalry between these two table tennis greats has seen the last four matches go to the decisive seventh game.  Howard said, “I was thinking he was going to defense (Risner was down 10-6 in the final game), it’s going to happen.” The former champion had this to say,  “I lost two points early in the seventh, a net and an edge, and Jon played a tight game hitting offense when he needed to.”  Odds are you will be reading about another seven game thriller next week.  

         Jonathan Howard rolled in round robin play going 5-0 in matches played, and 10-0 in games won-lost.  Cody “Tex” Risner returned and placed 2^nd going 4-1; Tyler McNish was 3^rd with a 2-3 record; James Arnett 2-3 took 4^th place; Dewey Moore was 5^th going 1-4; Houston Howard finished 5^th at 1-4.  Jonathan Howard was awarded the Division I title for winning the round robin (the title was vacant).  However, later in the meet, he won his 10^th GPTT Championship, so he had to abdicate the title as the league champion cannot hold another lower singles title.  The Division I Title will be played for in a match next week between the two top players not going for the league title.  Jonathan Howard becomes one of only 12 players to win the Division I Title and the GPTT Title in the same night.  That’s a lot of success!  

        “Dr. J” Johnny Johnson and “The Legend” Byron Risner, “The Dream Team” retained their GPTT Doubles Titles for the second straight week against James Arnett and “The Enforcer” Dewey Moore.  The Dream Team will take on Jonathan Howard and Tyler “Fish” McNish next week.  Fish and Howard won the title shot by defeating Houston Howard and James Arnett.

         The Eastern Kentucky Open will be held on Saturday, November 5, 2011 at the Morgan County Community Center.  This event has the potential to be the most attended event of 2011, and possibly in all of GPTT history.  Our last open tournament was Grand Stand 6 in June, and there were 3 states represented at the event.  The event will feature 6 round robin groups with a maximum of 5 in each group.  There will be two doubles divisions, A and B.  And the main event ladies and gentlemen will be the first ever Eastern Kentucky Open Championship.  If you have never seen table tennis, you will be amazed if you attend this event.  The Open will start at 2 pm, and admission is FREE to the public.  If you are interested please come to the center.  No flash photography please.  Call 606-662-6332.  Seating is limited and will be filled on a first come, first serve basis.

         Join us on Sunday for Meet 38 at the Morgan County Community Center with a 3 pm start time.  First time players play for free, and all others pay $2 weekly.  It doesn’t matter if you are a beginner, or rated 2000 plus, we want you to participate in our Olympic Sport.  The cardio workout is just one of the added benefits of the second most popular participation sport in the world.  We are proud to be an alternative to the “so-called” mainstream sports.  Our club also features coaching, equipment, and a friendly atmosphere.  Visit us at www.gptt.org for more information. 

Meet 37: Oct. 9, 2011

"Legend" and "Dr. J" win their 5th GPTT Doubles Titles

     "The Legend" Byron Risner and "Doctor J" Johnny Johnson teamed up to defeat Dewey Moore and James Arnett to winn their 5th GPTT Doubles Championship.  Johnny Johnson, widely regarded as the best doubles player in league history was on his game hitting blocks and working the table so that "The Legend" was open to hitting smashes and kill shots.  Moore and Arnett made an impressive debut against one of Eastern Kentucky's all-time best duos.

      "The Legend" retained the GPTT Title against Dewey Moore in a best of seven series. 

Austin Whitaker won the Group 1 Round Robin in his GPTT debut with a 2-1 record; Dewey Moore took second place going 2-1; James Arnett was third with a 1-2 record and Houston took fourth.  GPTT is thrilled to have these three outstanding players in the league.  They all have a promising future in the league. 

     Dewey Moore and James Arnett defeated Austin Whitaker and Houston in doubles competition. 

     Ann Colbert has held the GPTT Division II Championship for over one month now.  At Meet 36 Ann retained the title from Dewey Moore.  Ann made history by becoming the woman with the longest title reign in league history.  Congratulations to Ann on this tremendous accomplishment. 

     Cody Risner received a title match at Wheel Rim, KY on October 4, 2011 against "The Legend" Byron Risner.  This marks the first time the title has been defended outside a sanctioned league meet since

1997.  "The Legend" retained the championship.  Cody "Tex" Risner was awarded the Division I Title, but failed to attend Meet 37 and was stripped of the championship when he refused a mandatory defense. 

     Eastern Kentucky table tennis players are gearing up for the first-ever Eastern Kentucky Open on November 5, 2011.  The official entry forms can be found on our website www.gptt.org 

"We feel that this has the potential to be the biggest event in our 20 year history," says Board Member Glenn Duff. 

GPTT Meet 37  Results: 10/2/11

GPTT Title Match: (C) Byron Risner def. Dewey Moore Non-title

Division II Champion:  Ann Colbert def. Dewey Moore (best of 11 series)

Note:  Division I Title not defended; Doubles Titles decared vacant (since meet 36) to be filled on Oct. 6

GPTT Meet 36 Results: 9/25/11

GPTT Title Match: (C) Byron Risner def. Jonathan Howard (4 games to 3) New Champion 77th for Risner

Division I Title Match:  Wes Howard defeats Tyler McNish for the vacant Division I Title (3 games to 2)

Round Robin Results:

1st Place     Jonathan Howard(3-0)

2nd Place    Byron Risner  (2-1)

3rd Place     Wesley Howard (1-2)

4th Place      Tyler McNish (0-3)

Note:  Title names changed: Elite to Division I; Challenge to Division II.

GPTT Meet 35 Results: 9/18/11

GPTT Title Match: (C) Byron Risner loses to Jonathan Howard (4 games to 3) New Champion

Round Robin Results:

1st Place    Byron Risner (3-0)

2nd Place   Jonathan Howard (2-1)

3rd Place    Cody Risner   (1-2)

4th Place     Dewey Moore (0-3)

Note:  Title names changed: Elite to Division I; Challenge to Division II.

GPTT Meet 34 Results: 9/11/11

GPTT League Title Match:  (C)  Byron Risner def.  Jonathan Howard  (4 games to 3)

GPTT Doubles Title:  (Vacant) Risner and May def. Jonathan Howard & Tyler McNish (Patrick forfeited 1/2 of the doubles title) New Champions: Risner and May (3rd Doubles Title Win/1st in 2011) (3 games to 1)

GPTT Elite Title:  Josh May def. Elite Ch. Tyler McNish def. (C) Steve Patrick ( May wins 19th Elite Title) (3 games to 1)

GPTT Challenge Title: (C) Dewey Moore lost to Ann Colbert (Ann wins 2nd Challenge Title) (2 games to 1)

Round Robin Results:

Round Robin Group 1:  1st Jonathan Howard  (3-0; 6-0); 2nd Josh May  (2-1; 5-3); 3rd Tyler McNish (1-2; n/a); 4th Dewey Moore  (0-3; 2-6)

Round Robin Group 2:  1st Ann Colbert (2-0; 6-0)  2nd Tracey Risner (1-1;3-3)  3rd Ann Andalora (0-2; 0-6)

Doubles 

Tracey Risner and Dewey Moore def. Ann Colbert and Ann Andalora 

Full report:

Sept. 11, 2011: Meet 34

     Grand Prix Table Tennis held our 34^th meet of 2011 at the Morgan County Community Center on September 11, 2011. We want to let everyone know that we are looking for new players, from beginners to advanced, and all those in-between. If you are interested in playing drop by the Community Center on Sundays from 3 to 6 pm, or call us at 606-662-6332, or email us at gpttky@gmx.org We want to hear from you!

      We had an exciting event that saw Eastern Kentucky Champion “The Legend” Byron Risner retain the championship against Jonathan Howard in a grueling best of seven series that went to the final game. The rivalry of the decade has arrived in Howard vs. Risner. Elite Champion Tyler “Fish” McNish lost to “The One” Josh May who claimed his 19^th Elite Championship since his debut in 2003. Steve Patrick no showed and forfeited one-half of the Eastern Kentucky Doubles Championship, which he held with “The Legend” Byron Risner. A match was then played between “The One” Josh May and “The Legend” Byron Risner against Jonathan Howard and Tyler McNish. Risner and May took home their 3^rd Eastern Kentucky Doubles Championship by a 3 game to 1 margin. Challenge Champion “The Enforcer” Dewey Moore lost his title to Ann Colbert, who claimed her second Challenge Championship. Congrats to all the winners.

      Singles round robin play featured two groups. The group one round robin was won by Jonathan Howard who went 3-0 in match play, and 6-0 in games played. Howard also won a shot at the GPTT Title by winning the group one round robin. “The One” Josh May finished 2^nd, going 2-1 in match play, and 5-3 in games played. Tyler “Fish” McNish took 3^rd, and Dewey Moore finished fourth. It should be noted that Moore put in a gutty performance by taking a game off of May and McNish.

     The first ever GPTT all women’s round robin took place at Meet 34. Ann Colbert, a two-time GPTT Challenge Champion won the event going 2-0 in matches played, and 6-0 in games played. Tracey Risner finished 2^nd with a 1-1 match record, and Ann Andalora, making her EKTT debut finished third. These ladies now hold a place of honor in GPTT lore. Congratulations!

      GPTT will be playing this Sunday at the Morgan County Community Center from 3 to 6 pm. We have six tables, and a professional barrier set, plus equipment for anyone who is interested in playing. Players do not have to participate in GPTT competition until they are ready. We have open tables for those interested in recreational play. The first night is free! So bring a friend and join us this Sunday. Visit us at www.gptt.org/ektt for more information.

GPTT Meet 33 Results: 8/28/11

Aug. 28, 2011:

Legend wins 76th GPTT Championship; Tyler "Fish" McNIsh defeats Patrick for 1st Elite Championship

"The Legend" Byron Risner won his record setting 76th GPTT League Championship by edging Jonathan Howard four games to three, in one of the year's most exciting contests. One GPTT source says this was a big match for "The Legend", "He didn't want to have his longest losing streak to a player tied going into a potential title match this week. So the win was big in many ways for him (Risner)." Jonathan Howard and "The Legend" now have the top rivalry in Grand Prix Table Tennis.

It was a big night for "Fish" Tyler McNish as he took his first-ever Elite Championship (the league's second top singles title) from "The Rock" Steve Patrick. "Fish" also earns his highest ever weekly league ranking at #3. "The Rock" had held the title for 40 days going into the match. "The Rock" says he is eager for a rematch, and hopes to get one at Meet 34.

"The Legend" and "The Rock" retained the GPTT Doubles Championship yet again with a victory over Jonathan Howard and Tyler McNish. The champions have one of the league's all-time longest reigns going at 60 days and counting.

The round robin competition featured five of GPTT's top players. Here are the results:

1st Byron Risner 4-0; 2nd Jonathan Howard 3-1; 3rd Tyler McNish 1-3; 4th Steve Patrick 1-3; 5th Wesley Howard.

We are now playing on Sundays at the Morgan County Community Center on Sundays from 3:00 pm to 5:30 pm. If you are interested in playing table tennis please come to one of our meets on Sunday. We have five quality tables, coaching, a barrier set, and a wonderful group of players. Call us at 606-662-6332, GPTT President Byron Risner or email us at gpttky@gmx.com

GPTT League Title Match:  Byron Risner def. (C) Jonathan Howard  (wins 76th Title)

GPTT Doubles Title:  (ch) Byron Risner & Steve Patrick def. Tyler McNish & Jonathan Howard

GPTT Elite Title:  Tyler McNish def. (C) Steve Patrick (wins 1st Elite Title)

GPTT Challenge Title:  No defense,  Champion did not play (uses pass)

Round Robin Results:

RR Group of 5:  1st Byron Risner  4-0; 2nd Jonathan Howard 3-1; 3rd Tyler McNish 1-3; 4th Steve Patrick 1-3; 5th Wesley Howard 0-4

GPTT League Title Match (ch) Jonathan Howard def. Byron Risner 

GPTT Doubles Title:  (ch) Byron Risner & Steve Patrick def. Cody Risner & Dewey Moore

GPTT Elite Title:  (ch) Steve Patrick def. Dewey Moore

GPTT Challenge Title (vacant): Dewey Moore def. Ann Colbert

Jonathan Howard def. Cody Risner

doubles: Jonathan Howard & Tyler McNish def. Ann Colbert & Cody Risner

GPTT Meet 31 Results: 8/09/11

Byron Risner def. Mitchell O'Neal

Mitchell O'Neal def. Dewey Moore

Byron Risner def. Tracey Risner

GPTT Meet 30; Aug. 2,  2011:

Legend retains the GPTT League Title from 'The One" Josh May

"The Legend" Byron Risner retained the GPTT League Championship vs. "The One" Josh May at Meet 30.  "Young players like Josh and Jon are the future of the club," says the new champion.  "Josh played a great match, and I'm sure that I will be playing Jon again in the near future for the title."

"The Rock" and "The Legend" retained their 27th GPTT Doubles Title for the third consecutive week after defeating Dewey Moore "The Enforcer", and Josh May.

"The Rock" Steve Patrick retained the GPTT Elite Title with a monumental comeback over Dewey Moore, edging him three games to two.  Patrick got off to a bad start with Moore up quickly, but, "The Rock" used his famous comeback drive to retain the league's second top singles title.

GPTT Meet 29; 2011:

'The Rock' Steve Patrick def. Dewey Moore (retains Elite Title)

'The Legend' Byron Risner def. 'The Rock" Steve Patrick to win his 75th GPTT Title (title was vacant)

Major Event:  Jonathan Howard forfeits the GPTT League Title---two straight weeks no defenses; EKTT Title is declared vacant.

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