10th NBL Plc tennis tourney begins in Ibadan

The 10th edition of the Nigerian Breweries-sponsored tennis tournament has commenced with preliminary games at the Ibadan Recreation Club (IRC), Ibadan.

Speaking with Tribunesport, vice chairman of the Tennis Section of IRC, Bolaji Salami, said logistics have been put in place to make the tournament, scheduled to end on November 19, a huge success.

He said the uniqueness of this year’s championship is the Super Veteran category which will be played for the first time since the inception of the championship in 2007.

“We will be playing singles which is open to any player within the Ibadan metropolis.

The veterans doubles is open to the people between the ages of 50 years and 65 years old while the super veterans doubles is for the participants from 65 years old and above.”

According to Salami, the prize money for the singles event is N210,000 as winners of the veterans doubles will get N100,000 while the super veteran doubles winners will be rewarded with N100,000.

The president of the IRC, Otunba Gboyega Fisher said no fewer than 120 players have shown interest to participate in the tournament.

Meanwhile, a member of the organising committee, coach Kayode Alabi has disclosed that the tournament will also feature the women’s singles this time.

He stated that the draw for the main tournament will be held today.

In the preliminary games to be decided today, E. Adeleye faces O. Anthony as A. Emmanuel tackles A. Asaleye, while A. Abiodun confronts O. Osunbote.

1. Adedayo faces G. Erinwusi as I. Adegbola battles with D. Odebiyi, while B. Olatunji tackles O. Odebiyi.
2. Mesagbor will slug it out with D. Tunji as M. Abdullahi battles with A. Olanrewaju to vie for tickets into the main draw of the competition.