National news
The Centennial Annual Tennis Championship
Over three days from 22-24 July upon the green and glorious lawns of Home Park Tennis Club with the stunning backdrop of Windsor Castle, CSSC held its annual Tennis Championship, made especially poignant as the centenary year.
This was the 100th National Championships, which originated as the Civil Service Open in 1922 and was played at various venues before establishing itself at the Civil Service Sports Ground Chiswick from 1925-2013 before moving to Home Park.
Many of the magnificent and unique trophies awarded throughout the history of the Championships were both on display, and of course, awarded during the event.
The event was made even more special by a visit from CSSC’s Patron HRH The Duchess of Gloucester who, much to their delight, met with all those involved, CSSC LTA volunteers, CSSC staff, and of course CSSC members and players.
An ITN film crew were also in attendance gathering footage for a news-style programme hosted by Louise Minchin: ‘Fitness for Everyone’. The programme addresses why getting active is so important to our health both physically and mentally.
Open and veteran’s events, with both singles and doubles, were played in glorious sunshine. It was great to see so many CSSC members enjoying themselves and playing lots of tennis as well as meeting friends, old and new. Every participant received a CSSC LTA centenary towel to commemorate the occasion together with various other CSSC-branded freebies.
A fun ‘Pizza in Home Park’ social evening took place after the first day of play, during which an amazing 100 matches were completed (very fitting for our centenary but purely a coincidence!)
It was a brilliant few days and thanks to all participants for supporting the event. A particular thanks go to Greg Taafe CSSC LTA Chair, Gul Rashid, Tournament Director and Referee and Sue Williamson CCSC LTA, and the Home Park Team for delivering such a superb and well-organised event. Thanks also to Matt Bazeley OBE, CSSC CEO and to the CSSC events team, for all their hard work in both co-ordinating Her Royal Highness’ visit and arranging for ITN to attend, as well as providing the CSSC branded flags, gazebos, and goodies.
Dates for next year’s Championships are 20 - 23 July 2023. Why don’t you come and give it a try? All standards are very welcome, partners will be found if necessary and you can be sure of a very warm welcome from volunteers and competitors alike.
For further information please email csscannualtennis@hotmail.co.uk and/or go to the CSSC Tennis page.
