As Tennis Director, Viceroy Anguilla, Vallan Hodge -Richardson continues his training, on behalf of the Anguilla Tennis Academy (ATA), for the upcoming New York City Marathon in November. For the first time ever the ATA was also represented at the Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day at the US Open. Alysha Carty, who earlier this year won the Girls’ Junior’s Under 10 Championship in Anguilla, and her mother, Jocelyn Johnson, were able to attend this event which officially opens the US Open.
The Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day is the U.S. Open’s great pre-tournament celebration for families. It was held on August 24, 2013, and many of the day’s events were free. The free Grounds Festival offered interactive games, music and tennis activities for all ages. Kids could test their skills, watch top tennis pros and have a chance to win prizes. The Grounds Festival also featured a free concert with exciting up-and-coming talent on the Hess Express Stage.
The Stadium Show inside the Arthur Ashe Stadium required tickets and was the highlight of the day’s events for Alysha. She was able to see Ariana Grande in performance, the First Lady Michelle Obama, and a number of tennis stars including her favorite Novak Djokovic and Serena Williams. Following the exciting day Alysha said: “I can’t believe that I was in the same place as Ariana Grande!!!” She is looking forward to seeing some of the tennis greats play August 29th.
Alysha and her mother wish to extend profound thanks to Mitch Lake, Founder and CEO of ATA, for his assistance in arranging the tickets that made it possible for them to attend these events. Having been exposed to tennis at this level Alysha is more excited about tennis, and vows to work harder on her game. ATA Founder and President, Mitch Lake, said: “The ATA continues to provide memorable experiences for its youth and exposes them to international tennis events whereby they can be inspired and motivated to develop their game of tennis.”
– Contributed
