Observer Challenge coordinator credited for invaluable 25 years

Coordinating a large-scale tennis tournament for 25 years is no small task, but Tennis Center Manager Kay Thayer has been stepping up to serve every year since its inception. Participants took the opportunity to share their appreciation for her efforts at the kickoff of this year’s tournament on Thursday at the  Spike ‘n’ Tees restaurant at the Resort at Longboat Key Club.

Matt Walsh, CEO of the Longboat Observer, offered his commendation of her efforts with an award, customized bracelet and subscription to a craft beer service.

The tournament took place Friday and Saturday, modified to avoid potentially stormy weather on Sunday.

As Thayer delved into the details of this year’s updated tournament format, attendees cheered at no longer needing to compete in singles matches, made possible by playing mixed doubles after the first round of matches.

But their even more boisterous applause went to Thayer.

"People don't realize what it takes to put on an event like this," Walsh said. "But she's done a great job, all 25 years, and I thought it was appropriate for all of us to recognize the job that she has done."

He also fondly recalled the tournament’s origins, a form of an “olive branch” between Walsh and tennis enthusiasts who established the Longboat Key Public Tennis Center. John Mrachek and Dick Schlorf offered the inspiration.

Walsh joked that though he’s only won his division once in the 25 years he’s played, the tournament is always a great time.

The Friends of Tennis Inc. Director Rich McGrath, who also coordinates a senior men’s tennis tournament, said  Thayer “has done a magnificent job of running the Tennis Center.”

McGrath said this year marked the highest fundraising in the tournament's history.

Taking top prize

Teams vied for the ultimate prize of having their names inscribed on the tournament trophy, which is housed year round at the Longboat Key Public Tennis Center. 

But the division winners also had the opportunity to enter a drawing for dinner for four at Maison Blanche, lauded as one of the top restaurants on the Key that specializes in modern French cuisine.

The prize ultimately went to the Division Two winners of Mike Langlois, Irene Langlois, Dobs Gibbins and Jackie Gibbins.