Big Hitters

Today I played my doubles match in the $25,000 Pro Circuit Challenger in Ft. Walton Beach. Because work has been so incredibly busy, I hadn't really had time to think too much about the match. Between making preparations for the Chaffee men's tournament that starts at Hidden Dunes on Friday, and trying to think about leaving for Houston on Saturday for my Clay Court Nationals, plus dealing with the everyday goings on at Hidden Dunes, there just hasn't been time to sit and worry about playing in such a big event. The day finally came though. We've had such beautiful weather the last couple of weeks, then overnight a cold front moved through leaving bright sunny skies, but also very cold, gusty winds. Originally my match was scheduled for around noon, but other matches went longer than anticipated and it was close to three before we went on. I am so grateful and thankful to my wonderful Hidden Dunes winter tennis family and all my other friends and supporters who came early, endured the cold and wind, and stayed until the bitter end. Svetlana and I lost to two young American girls who were very good. I was pleased with my play. I gave up close to thirty years to each of my opponents today, but was able to hang in there, play well and compete in a world class event with players who compete at this level every week. This experience validates the fact that all the hard work I've put in over the past six months is paying off. I'm eager to play in Houston now to get a better feel for how far I've come physically and mentally since my last event. My first match is scheduled for Monday at 10:30 a.m.