On Saturday, August 9, the greatest tennis players from around the globe converged on the Bronx for the opening day of tennis festivities, as Group Health Incorporated, Panasonic and a host of local sponsors joined the New York Junior Tennis League in presenting the 16th Annual GHI Bronx Tennis Classic.
Played on the hard court floors of Crotona Park., the largest challenger tournament event in New York and the first to ever divide the $100,000 grand prize equally amongst men and women, continues to attract players looking to make a name for themselves with the U.S. Open quickly approaching.
“This tournament is exactly what the Bronx is all about,” said Carlos Cuevas, chairman of the event. “Every year, the best players come to play on one of the best tennis courts with some of the best playing conditions around and this year has been no different.”
With the qualifying and first rounds complete, there is still plenty of tennis action for Bronxites to enjoy…free of charge.
On Wednesday, August 13, the Round of 16 begins for both men and woman. The following day, a youth parade, along with a fitness day for kids, and the annual Governor’s Cup compliment the continuation of the Sweet 16 competition.
On Friday, August 15, the quarterfinals begin with the semifinals taking place the following day. Also, on Saturday, August 16, the 3rd Annual GHI Bronx Finest vs. Bravest tournament takes place as the NYPD and FDNY compete for bragging rights and a trophy, as both City agencies’ widows and orphans funds receive a charitable donation from GHI.
Bronxites need only show up for those events, which are presented free to the public. Children can also enjoy free tennis lessons throughout the week, from noon to 3 p.m.
Finally, at 11 a.m., the men and women compete for the championship. General admission seats are available for $10 with shaded box seats priced as $25. For ticket information, call (347) 417-8151.
All proceeds from the event go to the New York Junior Tennis League. For more information go to www.nyjtl.org.
