Determined tennis players battled the elements at this year's Ben Bellamy Memorial Junior Open Tournament, held July 15-17 under rainy skies.
The Anderton Park courts in Comox were so wet Saturday that organizers moved the action to Lewis Park in Courtenay, but the rain accompanied them all the way.
"We had out-of-town players from Victoria, Chemainus, Mill Bay, Nanaimo and Campbell River, and one homegrown player, James Garrett," said Brenda Dean of the Comox Valley Tennis Club, which co-hosted the event along with the Comox Recreation Commission.
Scott Bocking from Chemainus won the U18 boys event over Nyles Moisson from Mill Bay. Lindy Boyle from Nanaimo won the girls U16 division over Rachel Bocking from Chemainus. Beckett Chung defeated Toni Delsa in the all-Victoria U16 boys final.
"It was difficult to choose the sportsmanship award," Dean said. "We were all so impressed by the level of play and sportsmanship shown throughout this tournament." Rachel Bocking won the award.
"It was a fun tournament even with the weather. Mr. and Mrs. Bellamy hosted a wonderful barbecue at their home on the Saturday night which was enjoyed by all.
"We really appreciated all that came to the Ben Bellamy Memorial Junior Tournament and we look forward to next year's event," Dean added.
BASELINES Next up on the CVTC calendar is the Rogers Rookie Tour event on Saturday, July 23 and the Nautical Days "Any Two Mariners Will Do" Tournament July 29-30 ... more details and registration is at www.cvtennis.com ...