Austin American-Statesman

FIT FOLKS:

- We’re looking for Central Texans who keep fit with interestin­g activities. Tell us — in 100 words or fewer — about yours. If you have a photograph, include that as well. Send your name, age and contact informatio­n to Pam Leblanc,austin American-statesman,

I was 8 years old when I was handed a racquet at Camp Stewart outside of Kerrville and told to go hit a ball. It was love at ffrst stroke and I have been a tennis player all my life.

In my youth I played for the exercise; in my dotage I ffnd that I must exercise to play the tennis. Morning stretching, 5 pound weights and elastics when I’m not swimming in the lake or cutting ffrewood — anything to keep the joints and muscles moving. The mental beneffts of stepping on a tennis court are equally important. At this age, with testostero­ne levels disappeari­ng, winning is reduced to a side benefft. We play as friends and laugh at our dumb shots and cheer the perfect one. It’s the camaraderi­e along with the cardio stress that are important. Exercise is nature’s reboot of the psyche.

?? CONTRIBUTE­D by bob ROBERTS ?? Bob Roberts (from left), Rich Harrison and Ernie Fortenberr­y enjoy two hours of doubles at the Pharr Tennis Center two or three times a week.
CONTRIBUTE­D by bob ROBERTS Bob Roberts (from left), Rich Harrison and Ernie Fortenberr­y enjoy two hours of doubles at the Pharr Tennis Center two or three times a week.

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