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Thakkar Tennis A Hit

Mark Pinson/Highlands Today

Barbara Maslin hits a backhand during Saturday's first round of the Thakkar Tennis Classic Valentine Mixed Doubles tournament.

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By MARK PINSON Highlands Today

Published: February 10, 2009

SEBRING - The annual Thakkar Tennis Classic Valentine Mixed Doubles tournament attracted a strong field for Saturday and Sunday's event at the Thakkar Tennis Center.

The annual tournament brought out the best weather in a week, which the players fully enjoyed.

The event kicked off with a dinner on Friday night at CaddyShack Restaurant, where the draw sheets were given out.

Winners in the "A" Division was the talented duo of Sebring High girls tennis coach Janie Hollinger and Kenny Johnson, who knocked off Lynda Fulcher and husband Bobby Fulcher by scores of 6-3, 6-2.

The "B" Division was won by Peggy Sisemore and partner Bruce Wyse, who defeated Carey Smith and Mickey Byrd by scores of 6-4, 3-6, 6-3.

The "C" Division was won by Donna and Horace Watkis, who eased past Kelsie Johnson and Spencer Caton by scores of 7-6, 2-6, 6-2.

Watkis is the head professional at the Thakkar Tennis Center and was pleased the tournament ran so smoothly.

"This is a special tournament and one that everybody looks forward to playing in," said Watkis. "The members get a chance to see each other, we had great weather, a good turnout and playing tennis is a great way to get some exercise.

"We did things a little different this year so that even if you lost, you could still wind up winning in a lower division and I think everybody enjoyed that."

The Thakkar Tennis Center features well-manicured clay courts that are kept in excellent condition year-round.

"This is an outstanding complex and we try to keep it in top shape," said Watkis. "The members enjoy playing here and we host a number of high school tennis matches during the spring."

Watkis has an after-school tennis program that offers youngsters excellent instruction in the sport and a great way to get in shape.

"We have different age groups and the younger you learn a sport the easier it is," said Watkis. "I love working with the kids because they are the tennis stars of tomorrow.

"It doesn't cost a lot to take up tennis and it's an easy game to learn."

For more information on the after-school program or for lessons, contact Watkis at 863-414-2164.

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