Under sunny skies and almost perfect weather conditions, a total of 39 competitors entered the five main draws of last weekend's 36th annual Sunshine Coast Open tennis tournament.
There were many new faces this year, with some competitors coming from Victoria and the Lower Mainland.
"We were fortunate to have both Luke O'Loughlin, director of high performance tennis of Tennis BC, and Lois Kerr, director of events from Tennis BC, compete in this year's tournament," said event spokesperson Shelley Lawrence. "Tennis enthusiasts were treated to some first class tennis in the blazing sun."
Victoria's Chad Brachat regained his men's singles title, defeating once six-time champion Chris Wales from Vancouver.
In the other main events, O'Loughlin and Dave Dundas from White Rock beat Brachat and local John Nygren in the men's doubles draw.
The mixed doubles trophy was captured by Lois Kerr and Luke O'Loughlin over Carolyn Haley and Dundas.
Lawrence and Sandra Watt won the women's doubles trophy in a hard-fought, three-set match over Lois Kerr and Carolyn Haley.
Tammy Klashinsky captured the women's singles title over Janeth Schembri of Gibsons.
The consolation events also had some first-class competitive play.
Wiley veteran Frank Lam of Gibsons won the men's singles over newcomer Jesse McLean.
Yev Shvartsman and Jason Carter won the men's doubles over Frank Lam and Geoff Clement.
The mother and son team of Katie and Ross Munroe of Gibsons won the mixed doubles consolation over Karin Tigges and Denis Rogers, while Janeth Schembri and Cielo Lyle-Shortt won the women's doubles over Annette Shrober and Alana Johnston. For scores see the sports ticker on page 60 of the printed edition.
Thanks to the many sponsors who help support this growing, long-standing community event.
- Submitted