Easter tennis tournament as popular as ever

ANY thoughts that the Myrtleford Lawn Tennis Club's iconic Easter Tournament was losing any of its allure were quickly dashed with bookings sold out within six and half hours of being opened. A field of 350 players will compete across the four days in men's, women's and mixed events for juniors and senior players in a round robin competition. Myrtleford Lawn Tennis Club president Peter Ternes said the tournament seems more popular than ever in its more than 30 year history. "It was the same for Yarrawonga for their Labour Day tournament, people are just wanting to come back to the country courts and play on grass," he said. "We started with the round robin format 30 or 40 years ago which guarantees players can get their four games, which many prefer to the knockout competitions. "It's proved so popular a lot of other tournaments have adopted that now." For that reason there is no messing with the set–up with club following the "tried and tested" formula. But its more than just the format that brings the crowds back year after year. "It's our friendliness and hospitality and the location of the courts," Ternes said. "And we have really excellent courts. "We get the same people coming back year after year who book out the local accommodation and the caravan park. "In fact I think the same groups are bringing more players each year." Ternes said he was hopeful the grass courts will be near their peak for the tournament although they have been challenged with the relatively mild spring, and summer plus added rainfall attracting pests such as the African Black Beetle which he said had "gone berserk". "The courts struggled a bit but started to come good in March, and the couch has come back a bit," he said. "All we need now is some sunshine but one thing you can't control is the weather; you just have to have your contingency plans." Ternes said the tournament would not be possible without the tremendous support of a host of local businesses as sponsors and the effort of club members who work tirelessly before, during and after the tournament to make it all happen. "Most of us will be pretty tired at the end of the four days, but it's worth it," he said. "The tournament hits off at 7.45am Good Friday and really builds momentum as the weekend comes. "There's a real buzz on the Saturday, Sunday and Monday when its packed out. "It's spectator friendly as well, you can sit behind any of the courts and watch the play, the bar will be open, the kitchen is always well–patronised and there are even chairs available."

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