TENNIS.

Timaru Herald, Volume XIC, Issue 13420, 18 October 1907, Page 7

TENNIS.

CLUB OPENINGS

Two Timaru. Tennis Clubs -were opened for the season yesterday afternoon. The •St. Mary's Club was formally opened by the Yen Archdeacon Harper at the Courts, Bank street. Afternoon tea was dispensed, and some friendly 'games indulged in by members. Some members of the Te Kara were busy practising in thfe Park yesterday, in 'preparation for the. formal opening next Thursday. There was a large attendance at the opening of the St. John's Tennis dub. Ideal weather prevailed for the popular pastime. The Rev. Fathers Tubman, Lo Flock and Finnerty, were present. The president (the Rev. Father Tubman), made an appropriate speech, heartily welcoming the members of kindred Clubs, and wishing the Club every success. He then declared the season opened. The two courts were in splendid order and some good play was witnessed. Excellent afternoon tea, provided by the ladies, proved very acceptable. The committee are to be congratulated ( on the success of the gathering. The membership is increasing, and the Club anticipate a very successful season. At Geraldine the opening of the season was highly successful, visitors being present from Temuka, Waitohi, and Timaru. The attendance of well-wishers was also good, the ladies especially being well represented. The courts were formally opened by the president (Mr T., Sherratt),- whf> referred to the special gathering of the day, and' explained the reasons why they had had to abandon the courts in the Park and take up land across the river. Mr SheiTatt spoke of the advantages of the game of- tennis, from health and social points of view, and also touched on points of emulation and the making and widening of friendships. Dr Fergus' Paterson (the captain) end the Rev. A. B. Todd also spoke*, expressing their best - wishes the success and popularity of club and courts. Geraldine has certainly had its .Tips'" and downs in outdoor sports; but so far as the Tennis 'Club is now concerned it is in a.' very strong position. The' courts number three, of asphalt laid down by the well, known contractor (Mr Monahan), and are veiy handy ,to the town. The situation, in fact, could not be improved upon. The courts are side by Bide, and played very truly yesterday. With a little , attention in the way of sweeping and. rolling they will become among the best in South Canterbury. The lady I players yesterday were a trifle sliy, only two could ba. prevailed upon to take aj partner, but the Club has many of the fair sex on its roll. The men made up for the lack of combined play by keeping the courts very busily employed, and the all-round- play was of an excellent character. Geraldine possesses many young j>eople, "frho by their appearance at the opening yesterday, appear to take a most enthusiastic interest in the game. With three courts, handy .to the town,- this enthusiasm should not wane, and the Club should become well known in the best of district matches. Added to the pleasure of •a- successful : opening yesterday, was the cordial- way visitors were .made welcome; and the afternoon tea and cake provided by the ladies was greatly appreciated .by them, and the large number of spectators."

The Waitohi Tennis Club open their courts on Saturday Tyeek. They have had a good year, for after an expenditure of £25, there is a credit balance of £2 odd.- The Club will be pleased- to welcome players and friends on opening day.