OH WHAT A 9 DAYS IT WAS!!
What started off innocently enough with a handful of matches in the Category 1 National Championship Mixed 60's and 70's, soon turned into torrential downpours over the following two days (something the tournament now in its 30th year has never experienced), forcing the rescheduling of 220 singles matches, abbreviated scoring, the support of surrounding tennis clubs and ending with a three set thriller in the Men's 50 doubles final. In between all of this, was the same high level play the tournament has attracted, with over 700 players from 28 states represented, not to mention our great Canadian contingent, and a Men's 35 doubles round robin that demonstrated that experience is as important quality as youth, as two 55 year olds won each of their rounds!
We want to thank all of the players who endured throughout the tumultuous start of the tournament for demonstrating patience and understanding. As I mentioned during the great player party, while everyone participating was inconvenienced, at the end of the day we all should have the gratitude that we can continue to enjoy playing the sport we love, knowing full well that many others in our lives may not be experiencing such joy. As I've said many times,"it's only tennis"!!
Props to the offsites who were so supportive of allowing us to play at their facilities, especially during those first few days as we were scrambling for extra courts: Monterey Country Club, Palm Valley Country Club, Sunrise CC, La Quinta Resort, Desert Princess CC, Marriott Desert Springs, Westin Mission Hills Resort and Lake Mirage CC. The next time you play at any of these courts please say a "thank you" to the tennis director there for being flexible. I can tell you that without their support the event could not have continued as it did. The Coachella Valley is blessed to have such supportive tennis clubs.
Many thanks to all of our tremendous volunteers, headed by Sheryl Hershman. Their commitment to the goal of making things happen and being pleasant at the same time, was most commendable. Thanks to all of our sponsors, especially ASICS, for their continued support of our tournament. Again, without their support we couldn't put on such a great event.
Finally, a huge thank you to all of you who played our tournament. Obviously, without you this event doesn't happen!
Look forward to seeing all of you again in 2018! Stay healthy and enjoy life!
Ed & Jayne
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