OVER two days, close to 100 tennis players from across the island will hone their skills during the much-anticipated Hi-Lyte Open Junior Tennis Championships, scheduled to serve off at the Liguanea Club today.

The championship, in its fifth staging, is aimed at developing the skills of junior tennis players in Jamaica and the continuation of the sport at the senior level. According to tournament director Llockett McGregor, the number of junior players actively involved in the sport has diminished significantly over the years. The aim, he said, of hosting these tournaments is to get more young players interested in the game.

“Tennis is a spectacular game with a myriad of opportunities for the young and young at heart. You are never too old to learn the sport. Players get the chance to not only play for their country, but they can also receive scholarships to study locally and overseas. It can be a wonderful experience,” McGregor said.

Julette Hosang, Brand Marketing Manager for Hi-Lyte Sport Drink, said the company is once again proud to partner with the Lockett McGregor Tennis Series as each year they try to make the event better than the previous championships.

“Lots of exciting things are planned for Sunday, May 5, when the final will be played. We will be having the official opening of the Hi-Lyte Championship court, followed by a series of matches to include an exhibition match by the Davis Cup Team,” Hosang said.

Players will compete in boys’ and girls’ 12, 14, 16 and 18 under categories.