Stormy Thursday in NY

Phil and Tom won their first round of doubles yesterday easily. Today there were two rounds scheduled. They won their early afternoon quarterfinal round in three tough sets. The semifinals were to be played later in the afternoon, but the other matches were running late, and weather was moving in. The semis were rescheduled for Friday so Phil and Tom left the club to head back to their hotel. Phil called later to say they were in their car just leaving Westside Tennis Club in Forest Hills, and a tornado had hit. They were stuck with downed power lines and tress all around them. Everyone was fine, but it was a scary situation. After emergency help came and cleared the area, they drove back to the club, where the storm had caused significant damage. There's a question as to what will happen to the rest of the tournament. Below is a statement from the tournament home page:


Tornado Damage
Forest Hills has been hit by a tornado. Fortunately there were no injuries at the club however the courts have sustained significant damage. Due to extensive damage to the clay courts ALL CONSOLATION MATCHES HAVE BEEN CANCELLED FOR THE DURATION OF THE EVENT. We will not be able to get the courts playable. The grass courts sustained less damage and will probably be playable but at present, we do not know when. Updates will be posted as they are available.

I'm anxiously awaiting word from Phil on what their next move is. I'm so thankful that no one was hurt and hope that they can return safely to their hotel.

I'll post again when I hear from Phil.

UPDATE: 8:20 p.m. CST
Phil and Tom are still at the club, waiting for roads and traffic to clear so they can make it back to the hotel. As of tonight, all singles matches scheduled for tomorrow have been postponed. They will try to play two doubles matches if the courts are playable. The tournament officials will be able to further assess the damage in the morning.