Observer Challenge hopes different format will attract more players

From Jan. 17-19, the Observer Challenge returns to Longboat Key. Hosted at the Longboat Key Public Tennis Center, the tennis tournament will keep players on their toes with a different format this year. 

"The center is already busy off the bat this season," said Tennis Center Manager Kay Thayer. "Since people are coming later than usual in January, I think the new format will make them excited, have fun and forget about everything happening with the hurricanes for a little bit."

In previous years, the tournament hosted teams of two men and two women from all around the island. 

This year, a team of four is matched against another team of four. If people aren't a part of a set team, Thayer can assign them to a group if they want to participate in the tournament. She said it is a great way to meet new people.

For its 25th year, Thayer removed the singles portion of the tournament. The teams will begin a game of doubles, followed by everyone playing mixed doubles. 

The tournament will start with a reception from 5 to 7 p.m. on Jan. 16 at the restaurant Spike 'n' Tees at the Resort at Longboat Key Club.

"This is a hard tournament to put together because of the format," said Thayer. "I lose a lot of sleep putting people in the right divisions and doing the draw in the right order. Once that is done, I can relax and enjoy the party. I love seeing everyone get excited to play and form camaraderie throughout the whole tournamentnt."

At the reception, the surprise criteria will be announced for the tournament's grand prize, which is an exclusive dinner for four at Maison Blanche. Thayer said this criterion will not just apply to the players from the top division, so anyone can win the prize. They hope this will intrigue more players and get them excited about this year's tournament. 

To participate, each player will pay $60. This includes the price for the reception, trophies, tennis balls and refreshments. For nonplayers, the reception is $40. 

Call the Tennis Center at 316-8367 to register.