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The 70th annual Otamatea Tennis Open at the Kaiwaka Sports Association will be held on Anniversary Weekend of January 25-26.
Organiser Innes Andersen says the competition attracts top talent from across the North Island and gives locals the chance to try their hand against the pros.
“We would like to see some locals give it a go even if Auckland smokes us. We will be holding some local training beforehand,” he says.
The open is a knockout tournament and players are guaranteed at least three games.
Players knocked out in the first round play for the plate. Those knocked out in the second round play for the special plate. Those that make it to the third-round play for the championship.
Andersen says although there is a cash prize, the event is more about having fun, playing tennis and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
“We camp on the adjoining rugby grounds and try to have a bit of a festival atmosphere. We have all the necessary facilities and the beach is nearby,” he says.
“We have a party on Saturday night, which tends to even out the play on Sunday.”
Andersen says the competition usually attracts around 50 entrants.
Players can enter at the Tennis NZ website (tennis.kiwi) on the Otamatea Open page. Entries close January 22.
