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Inaugural Vernon tennis tournament a smashing success

The open tournament hosted over 50 of the best tennis players from across the Okanagan
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The winning mixed doubles team of Mariana Iturbude (left) and Val Eren (right) were victorious in the A category.

The top tennis players from across the Okanagan descended upon Vernon during the May 31 weekend, for the city's first ever "open" tournament.

“We were extremely fortunate with the weather”, said tournament director Heidi Klein. "Rain on Saturday morning put us three hours behind schedule, but thanks to the hard work of our volunteers and the flexibility and cooperation of the players we were able to get all the final matches completed on Sunday.” 

Over 50 players competed in eight different categories, coming from throughout the Okanagan, and as far as Kamloops and the Lower Mainland. 

After more than 80 matches played throughout Friday evening, Saturday, and Sunday, the winners were awarded their prizes and trophies.

"These tournaments take a lot of planning, work and support," said Vernon Tennis Association president Ron Burton. "We want to thank the tournament planning committee, all of our volunteers and our local Vernon sponsors for making the tournament a great success."

A tournament highlight was in the mixed doubles A competition, where 15-year-old Mariana Iturbide, the youngest participant, won with her partner, Val Eren from the Lakeview Heights Tennis Club. 

Below are the winners: 

Mixed A Doubles: Val Eren/Mariana Iturbide.

Mixed B Doubles: Kirbey Lockhart/Sandra Liedl. 

Mens A Doubles: Mike Mulholland/Ben Thompson.

Mens B Doubles: Alan Krak/Joe Depyffer.

Ladies A Doubles: Krista Martens/Supha Wall.

Ladies B Doubles: Tanya and Clair Johnson.

Mens A Singles: Kenton Martin.

Mens B Singles: Caleb Jones.

More information on the Vernon Tennis Association can be found at vernontennis.com.



Bowen Assman

About the Author: Bowen Assman

I joined The Morning Star team in January 2023 as a reporter. Before that, I spent 10 months covering sports in Kelowna.
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