The renowned Hunstanton Lawn Tennis Tournament is once again on the horizon, and it is poised to be the most significant and thrilling iteration to date. As the event’s commencement draws near, organisers are forecasting an unprecedented number of entries, cementing its status as a pinnacle event within the tennis community. Scheduled from Sunday, August 18 to Saturday, August 24 at the Hunstanton Recreation Ground, the tournament, affectionately known as the ‘Glastonbury of Tennis’, is being sponsored by the esteemed City Pub Group and will encompass an impressive array of 38 grass courts, attracting a diverse and highly skilled pool of participants. Since its inception in 1920, the tournament has garnered acclaim as the Lawn Tennis Association’s ‘Competition of the Year’, representing a cherished tradition for tennis aficionados of all ages.
Presently, approximately 300 players have successfully registered for the tournament, with expectations of this figure more than tripling as the deadline approaches. The tournament caters to players of varying skill levels, ranging from novices to top-tier county standard and nationally ranked players. With a longstanding history of drawing in excess of 1,000 competitors across various age brackets, this year’s event will feature an impressive 51 singles and doubles events.
Chris Holt, who is commemorating his 49th year as the tournament secretary, exudes confidence in the triumph of this year’s tournament. He underlines the family-centric nature of the event, with multiple generations of families returning each year to partake in and spectate the tournament. The vibrant atmosphere and spirited competition have established the tournament as a standout fixture on the tennis calendar.
Furthermore, the tournament will encompass an array of sponsorships and partnerships. The City Pub Group will be overseeing the event’s bar, furnishing a delightful hospitality experience for all attendees. Other sponsors inclusive of Cheffins, Greshams School, and Top Spin Tennis, will provide an extensive range of tennis equipment and attire throughout the week.
Demonstrating their commitment to the local community, this year’s tournament will champion fundraising efforts for the National Coastwatch Institution (NCI). The NCI maintains a lookout station on the sea wall within the grounds of the Royal West Norfolk Golf Club adjacent to Brancaster Beach, and the tournament endeavours to make a substantial contribution to their cause.
As the July 1 player entry deadline swiftly approaches, organisers are preparing for an influx of entries from participants encompassing a wide age demographic. Tennis enthusiasts are encouraged to peruse the official tournament website for comprehensive entry details and information pertaining to the diverse range of exciting events occurring throughout the week.
The Hunstanton Lawn Tennis Tournament pledges to be a superlative exhibition of sportsmanship, talent, and community spirit. With its illustrious history and traditions, it undeniably embodies the Glastonbury of tennis, and this year’s event is poised to be another extraordinary chapter in its celebrated legacy.