Geelong Lawn Tennis Club members might be forgiven at times for thinking that they play in a "tennis paradise" given the quality of the facilities available. However, club members Melissa Mortimer & Lauren McAuley know of another tennis paradise, particularly in the Victorian winter!
They have just returned from playing in the Fiji Tennis Open at Port Denarau Golf & Racquet Club on Fiji's main island. Played on a mix of natural grass & synthetic grass courts, the tournament features social as well as competitive events, and also veterans sections, all played in a beautiful resort setting with an 18 hole championship golf course as well as numerous hotels and resorts. It must have been a hard week, because Melissa said she needed a holiday afterwards. Perhaps too much of the local drink, Kava, Melissa?
The event ran for five days, and was played in perfect 30 degree temperature each day. A highlight of the trip was the frogs (no, not french men!) that covered the courts in the early hours of the evening. A moment of particular enjoyment for Melissa was watching Lauren attempt to waken her Prince Charming in an attempt to find true love. The evenings were spent at either the resort retaurants which ranged from Japanese, steakhouse, seafood, banquets or casual dinner, to the more relaxed feel of the marina at Port Denarau. The marina provided excellent choice with the cocktails, seafood platter & oysters a hit. Melissa & Lauren would recommend this event to all club members, both serious and social, and are looking to return in 2011. We have received reports from the island that the locals are keenly anticipating their return, in particular to see is they have maintained the skills they learnt during their stay...
Confirmed dates for next year are 9 - 13th June. Come along and enjoy "tennis in paradise", and meet some great people from all over the world enjoying a game of tennis. If any members are interested in attending the 2011 event, speak to Melissa or Club Manager Ken Barton for more details. It would be great to see a larger group of members attend next years event.
