Oban tennis on the level
TENNIS players in Oban will be able to play on a level surface for the first time in 10 years, as the upgraded courts at Atlantis Leisure are scheduled to open to the public on Monday.
The depleted facility was the subject of a community campaign, which started in December of last year, in order to raise money to improve the sloping- courts.
And after raising tens of thousands of pounds through grants, local and national charitable bodies and £6,500 from local people who donated through a crowdfunding page, Atlantis Leisure was able to go ahead with the much-needed upgrade.
A multi-functional sports facility, which is still in the process of being developed, will sit at the end of the three competition standard tennis courts.
Manager of Atlantis Leisure Nick Wesley said: ‘We’re on target and really excited.
‘We will have three new high quality tennis courts, so we will have courts that can be used all year round, which we have never had.
‘I would like to thank everyone for their donations and for making this happen. The number of people who have helped has been fantastic.
‘This is a big project, a big investment, and it is nice that it sits alongside the new playpark. The outside facilities in Oban have been secured for the future.’
Chair of Oban Tennis and Squash Club Lynda Oxland said: ‘We, the Oban Tennis and Squash Club, are all very excited as the courts are looking fantastic. We are looking forward to playing on them.
‘I’d like to give a big thanks to everyone who has supported us – we are very grateful.
‘The West Highland Tennis Week (WHTW) starts one week on Sunday and there will be events for both adult and kids.
‘The main event will start on June 30 and people from all over the world will take part. We have 20 competitors coming from the John Newcombe Tennis Ranch in the United States and people from Spain and Belgium.
‘However, although it’s a high profile week, it’s not all about WHTW – it’s also about the locals who will be playing on it every day.’
Mrs Oxland continued: ‘Oban Tennis and Squash Club members are really excited about playing on good courts for the first time in 10 years.’
West Highland Tennis Week takes place from Sunday, June 26 until July 3, with local events running from June 26-29.
The championship event will take place from Thursday June 30 until Sunday July 3.
Players of all ages and abilities are welcome to take part in the competitions.