Comment: Tennis Talk

Tennis entries for the 2005 Masters Games are on track to at least match the 271 participants who enjoyed the 2003 tournament. Organiser Michael Smyth (ph 343 7839) advises that late entries will be accepted up to February 1, so if you haven't yet entered then register online at www.nzmg.com, or visit the Games site at G F Moore Drive - urgently! The games tennis programme is: Saturday, February 5 ? B grade doubles; Sunday, February 6 ? B grade mixed doubles; Monday, February 7 ? A & B grade singles; Tuesday, February 8 ? A grade doubles and Wednesday, February 9 ? A grade mixed doubles.
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The club's annual singles championship competitions are underway, and the top seeds are Emma Hayman and Trelise Graham, Nicky Caton and Glenn Brown. Any members interested in entering the Anson Cup handicap singles competition is asked to advise Janet Cockburn ? ph 343 9044. This latter competition began 124 years ago in 1881, which makes it one of New Zealand's oldest sports competitions!
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One of the club's juniors, Lachie Watson and his partner Tutere Durie (Manawatu), won the doubles competition at the 12 and under North Island national selection tournament held recently in Hamilton. Angus Watson this week takes part in the under-14 tournament, and he and Jonathan Steward will be representing Central Districts in the national under-14 teams competition to be held next weekend.
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If you haven't already entered your teams (two men and two women) in the Business House or New Year night tennis competitions which will begin in the week beginning January 24, then contact organiser John Williams ? ph 347 8281 ? urgently. Details of both competitions and entry forms can be obtained via the www.wanganuitennis.co.nz website.
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A number of places are still available in the school holiday coaching clinics to be held at the club on January 20, 21, 24 and 25. Scheduled times for each day are: Beginners and intermediates, 9am to noon, and advanced (tournament level), 12-30pm to 3-30pm. For further information phone 021 455 561 or 021 048 8046.
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To ensure the club's facilities look their best during the Masters Games, a short working bee to remove the odd weed or two from paths and gardens will be held from 9am this Saturday.