New-look courts are a hit at tennis club after £50,000 project
It’s been quite a year for members and officials at Bognor Lawn Tennis Club.
The club celebrated a landmark moment in its 121-year history when they hosted their first finals day on their newly resurfaced artificial clay courts.
The two courts, which opened for play following a £50,000 resurfacing project carried out by Trevor May Contractors, replaced the tarmac surface that had been down for more than 20 years.
The investment represents a significant upgrade to the club's facilities. And on a sunny afternoon, with several dozen members and guests in attendance, it provided the perfect backdrop for a memorable day of tennis.
Eighteen finalists competed across eight categories, with the standout story of the day belonging to Ethan Hope and Rachel Mackinney-Skelton, who both claimed singles and doubles titles on the same afternoon.
Hope, 21, won the men's singles at the third attempt having come through the club's junior programme, before partnering Sam Woodruff to claim the men's doubles title.
Mackinney-Skelton, who has made remarkable progress since joining the club in 2023, won the women's singles before partnering Grace Rivers-Stone to victory in the women's doubles.
It was a brilliant double for both players on a special occasion.
Oli Callingham and Lara Moura e Sá claimed the mixed doubles title, while Dave Rowley and Mark Gregorian won the draw for partners. The 55+ categories produced a memorable day for Steve Porter, who won the 55+ men's singles before partnering Sharon Porter to claim the 55+ mixed doubles.
Junior finals were also held in the morning, with Francis winning the U12s category, Evien taking the mini red title and Daisy claiming the mini green.
Club chairman Jake Thom said: "Bognor Lawn Tennis Club has been going for more than 120 years, so it was a special moment in our history to have our first Finals Day on artificial clay.
"It’s a surface that represents an investment of more than £50,000 back into our facilities and the community of Bognor Regis. Congratulations to all our winners and runners-up on a truly wonderful day."
Bognor Lawn Tennis Club, founded in 1905, has over 160 members and welcomes new players of all abilities.
New adult membership with 12 months membership and six free group coaching sessions is available for £195. Junior membership starts from £40 for 11 and under and £60 for 12 and over. For more information visit clubspark.lta.org.uk/bognorlawntennisclub