Bermuda’s tennis players have been afforded another bite at the cherry to secure ranking points and bragging rights with the launch of the inaugural PGTC Open, presented by Martini, to be held at the Pomander Gate Tennis Club next month.

The tournament, to be held from September 2-9, offers ranking points to local players aged 18 and older and is to run concurrent with the Bacardi Seniors Cup for players aged 40 and older.

The PGTC Open consists of men’s and ladies’ singles and doubles and mixed doubles while the Bacardi Seniors Cup features singles, doubles and super senior doubles for players 55 and older.

The tournament is sanctioned by the Bermuda Lawn Tennis Association while the Bacardi Seniors Cup is an unsanctioned event.

Matches begin at 5.30pm on weekdays and 9am weekends with playing times for the seniors to be as flexible as possible.

There is no cover charge and spectators have been urged to attend.

“This is shaping up to be a great event for those that are looking to get more match play in and boost their ranking on the island, as well as having a more social aspect in the Senior categories,” David Thomas, the Pomander Gate Tennis Club marketing and communications officer, said.

“Participant numbers in senior tournaments have been quite low over the past few years so we decided to reduce the cost to them by not having that portion of the event sanctioned. Essentially, we’re hoping to bring players back into the fold that may have found tournament entry fees cost-prohibitive.”

Vernon Pemberton, Portfolio Manager for Bermuda Premium Spirits Limited, said the company “are happy to be a part of this inaugural tennis tournament as sponsored by the Martini brand”.

“We have supported the Bacardi Seniors Cup for numerous years, and it is a pleasure to see this new event added to bolster the competitive spirit,” he said.

Thomas, who has represented Bermuda in the prestigious Davis Cup, added: “Bermuda Premium Spirits Limited has been gracious enough to host a few cocktail receptions featuring delicious and refreshing long drinks made with Martini Vermouth throughout the week, so we’re looking forward to seeing players and their friends and families supporting them over the duration of the tournament.”

Entry forms can be downloaded from the new PGTC website and are being accepted at Pomander Gate Tennis Club and the WER Joell Tennis Stadium until 12pm on Wednesday, August 29.

For more details contact 236-5400 or e-mail pgtc@northrock.bm.