The Pinehurst Resort Tennis Club is currently hosting the U.S. National Clay Court Championships for men ages 70, 85, and 90.

This is one of only four USTA National Championships held each year. Those four include indoor hard, outdoor hard, grass and clay courts. The most talented players in these matches are former world champions who played the circuit in previous years. The trophy for winning this tournament is a much sought after "Gold Ball." It is an honor for being the very best in a particular age division. A total of 130 Super Duper Senior players are registered to play.

Players arrived from all over the United Stated for practice sessions before the tournament begins. Matches began Monday and will continue through the week until the champions are determined.

All matches are played at the Pinehurst Resort Tennis Club courts and are open to the public and there is no admission. Both singles and doubles will be played with all singles competitions playing in the mornings and doubles follow in the afternoon.

You can call the Pinehurst Resort Tennis Club for further information.

This past Monday evening a "Meet The Players" social was held on the Patio at the Tennis Club.

You would be absolutely amazed at the level of play of these participants. I never saw a walker, cane, or scooter, but I did see a lot of knee braces and ice packs being distributed.

So if you would like to spend a surprisingly delightful afternoon, stop by The Pinehurst Resort Tennis Club. You will be amazed at the caliber of tennis being played.

And speaking of tournaments, don't forget the First Bank's Kids Futures out in Seven Lakes Friday, Sept. 26, through Sept. 28.

It has been mentioned in The Pilot's new Recreation Calendar recently. If any young tennis players want to "test the competitive waters," this tournament is just what you need. For further information, call the Seven Lakes Tennis Center at 673-1096. It is open for boys and girls ages 10 to 16.

Here we have kids' tennis and super senior tennis, but local tennis clubs have a whole lot more in between, and we will fill you in on that next time.

Until then, keep hitting that little yellow ball!

See ya on the courts!