Plenty of green and gold themed festivities — and a wealth of tennis action.
The famed Numurkah Lawn Tennis Tournament turns 90 this year, and not even COVID-19 can stop it from raging ahead on January 23-24.
Conditions are at a peak ahead of the courtside bonanza according to event organiser and Numurkah president Dave Ludington.
“The courts are looking really good at the moment, whoever turns up will be treated to a pristine surface,” Ludington said.
“There is a bye in the Goulburn Murray Lawn Tennis competition, so hopefully there will be a few locals turning out.
“It’s always a good social occasion; the tournament is round-robin, so players don’t get knocked out straightaway.”
Last year’s major honours belonged to Nick Fenaughty and Helene Steward.
Fenaughty, a silky operator, has notched six crowns at the tournament and rarely fails to deliver on the day.
While Ludington expects him to return, the expected absence of Steward leaves an opening for a new female champion to emerge.
“I don’t think Helene will be there as I believe she has moved up to Queensland, but I’d imagine Nick will be back this year,” he said.
While Ludington noted excellent weather usually draws a crowd to the courts for the event, he did factor in an attendance drop due to COVID-19 concerns.
“I do think COVID-19 restrictions may impact numbers a little bit,” he said.
“Last year we had around 180-200 entries, so to get 150 this year would be nice.”
But no matter the number, Ludington ensured the show would be unmissable.
He revealed he’d be back to get the crowd up and about by spinning his blend of hits on the decks to complement the action unfolding from the baseline.
“We’ve got a DJ — which is me — so there will be a good mix of tunes on the Saturday night to go along with the tennis,” he said.
“Come down, get a good hit of tennis, have a few frothies and listen to some good tunes.”
● Entries close January 20, and can be sent to nltennisclub@gmail.com with Ludington happy to answer any queries on 0448 881 443.
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