Masters event in city hailed a success despite weather
A SUCCESSFUL and wellsupported International Tennis Federation Masters event was played to its conclusion at the Leicestershire Tennis and Squash Club, writes John Bryson.
The Masters event, part of the ITF veterans worldwide circuit, saw about 300 matches played over the city tournament’s six days.
A total of 248 players entered the 37 different draws in various age groups, from over 30s events up to over 80s.
Aside from UK entries, 15 other countries were represented in the various draws.
Tournament referee Kris Dymond said: “Some of the overseas entries are actually based here in the UK, but several travel to the different events from abroad.
“This week there have been entries from as far afield as The Bahamas, Canada, Japan, New Zealand and the United States.
“The quality of play has been of a high standard.
“Of the age ranges among the entries, the youngest was born in 1994 with the oldest born in 1946, which shows tennis as a sport for life.
‘The only problem for the event has been the mixed weather.
“Strong winds affected play on the first two days, while Friday saw rain from early afternoon. Players were able to play through the rain, as the clay courts absorb the moisture and leaves the court surface playable.
“The first few days saw 70 matches played each day, with a maximum of 14 courts being used.”
Tournament director Alison Ison said: “It has been a really good week.
“We had 200 entries last year so it is very pleasing to have an extra 48 entries this year, which leads to more matches for the players.
“Thanks go to all who took part, whether on or off court, in making the event both enjoyable and successful.”