Professional men’s tournament returns to Kelowna this month

6th annual Futures event slated for June 26 to July 2

For the sixth straight summer, Kelowna will host a professional men’s tennis tournament.

The $25,000 Futures event will be held at the Parkinson Recreation Centre courts from June 26 to July 2.

“This elite tournament will be the tennis highlight of the year (in Kelowna) and will provide great entertainment for sports fans and inspiration for our rising junior stars,” Tennis B.C. regional director Joachim Nierfeld said in a news release.

Futures tournaments are a launching pad for professional players in their quest to compete in ATP and Grand Slam events.

The tournament will attract worldranked players ranging from No. 200 to 1,500, NCAA Division 1 collegiate players, as well as top Canadian men and junior competitors.

Sanctioned by Tennis Canada as well as the International Tennis Federation, valuable ATP Tour world-ranking points are at stake in Kelowna in addition to the $25,000 in prize money.

Tickets are available online at kelownafuturestennis.com and also at the gate at Parkinson Recreation Centre courts. However, seating is limited and purchasing tickets in advance is recommended.

Weekly passes are $45 and daily tickets are as follows: Qualifications Saturday, June 24 and Sunday, June 25 Free First Round Monday, June 26 $5 each Second Round Wednesday, June 28 $5 each Third Round Thursday, June 29 $10 each Quarterfinals Friday, June 30 $15 each Semifinals Saturday, July 1 $20 each Finals Sunday, July 2 $20 each