Open day and tennis marathon – June 2016
Very early on Sunday 26th June 2016, four Drive members arrived at the club to start setting up for our Tennis Marathon and Open Day. By 6am, having started laying out furniture, unloading food, hanging balloons in the road and unpacking numerous raffle items, tennis was being played on Court 1.
The event was established to raise some money for our designated charity Whizz Kidz and to generate finance towards making our clubhouse more disabled friendly.
During the course of the day, as well as non-stop tennis, numerous other activities took place including, youth squad training, cardio tennis, speed gun and ball machine activities, adult beginner sessions, an ‘FA Cup’ Doubles tournament, wheelchair tennis, tennis coaching and activities for children and a beat the coach session.
Throughout the day, the weather stayed fine and the large numbers attending enjoyed the lively and vibrant atmosphere as well as the wonderful refreshments provided by our team of volunteers. Thanks to all who contributed food, baked cakes and of course gave up their time.
The day was of course largely designed to raise money and many thanks go to all the people who organised sponsorship, made contributions, bought raffle tickets and bid for auction prizes.
By the end of the day, as the first spots of rain began to fall, a few weary, aging but enthusiastic tennis players could be seen in the fading light, still playing tennis, happy in the knowledge that it had all been worthwhile. The day was a great success raising about £8000, showcasing the club in its best light and providing entertainment for all who attended.
The event was one where so many people helped out in so many ways. Many thanks to everyone involved.