The third UKCL Season 3 Qualifier saw the biggest turnout to date, with 195 games played and strong representation from clubs across the country, including Ashby, Bury, and Solent. With high stakes and fierce competition, the event delivered plenty of surprises and standout performances.
Following the morning’s rounders games, it was an Ashby Baggers takeover at the top. Brothers and UKCL Directors Nick and Alistair Pettitt claimed the top two spots, while Ben Shaw secured third, setting the tone for a competitive bracket.
Germany’s Richard Blanke, former UKCL Nationals champion returned in emphatic fashion, battling his way through the bracket to claim a spot in the final. Ashby’s Alistair Pettitt looked poised for the win after remaining undefeated all day, including an earlier victory over Blanke and a crucial win against current UK No. 1 Liam McGrath. However, Blanke found his form when it mattered most, defeating Pettitt in the King seat twice in the final showdown to secure the top spot.
The anticipated clash between McGrath and Blanke never materialized in the final, as Blanke bested McGrath twice earlier in the tournament, knocking him out of contention. McGrath ultimately finished outside the top three, with Dan Lilley claiming fourth place.
Bury Baggers put in a strong showing, with Michael Babler and Tom DelloRusso securing joint fifth. Babler had competed before but was yet to make a major impact on the UK scene, while DelloRusso impressed in what was his first notable UKCL event.
Jon ‘The Wizard’ Wishart quietly worked his way into the top ten, securing a season high. He managed to defeat fellow Ashby Bagger Charlie Lomax (9th) but was eventually stopped by Bury Bagger Tom DelloRusso.
Chris Webster & Mike Gregory (Joint 13th) both achieved their best finishes of the season, while Roy Ackers (17th) made a huge leap from 33rd in Qualifier 2 to 17th this time around.
Flo Rooke and Vikki Biddulph shared the top women’s finish at joint 25th, making a strong statement in a highly competitive field.
With the Nationals drawing closer, Qualifier 3 has reshaped the landscape of the UKCL rankings. The competition continues to heat up, and with Blanke’s return shaking things up and securing his spot in the National Finals, it will be fascinating to see how the final standings unfold. Who will rise, and who will fall? One thing is certain—UK Cornhole is more competitive than ever.
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