Now in its third year, the Annual Charity Tennis Classic in Cary, NC sponsored by Merrill Lynch was a huge success. Wake County was able to raise over $50,000 for their Western Wake Tennis Association's Junior Scholarship program and to benefit Interact, a private, non-profit, United Way agency that provides safety, support, and awareness to victims and survivors of domestic violence and rape/sexual assault. Over the last three years Wake County has been able to increase its funding and has raised a combined total of $125,000.
The event began on Thursday, September 15th with a silent auction. Over 300 people attended the event. They enjoyed sampling six different wines donated by Trinchero Family Estates and a variety of dishes supplied by Bonefish Grill. The evening event alone raised nearly $20,000, with the remaining funds coming from tournament entry fees and sponsors such as Merrill Lynch, Personal Image Center, the Arboretum, and Atlantic Tire.
“We feel blessed to have so many returning sponsors and players each year that help make this endeavor such a success,” said Robin Jones, event organizer.
The following morning at 8:00am the annual tournament began with over 100 women participating. The women were separated into four levels of play with round-robin competition and playoffs determining the winners. For the third year in a row, Prestonwood Country Club took home the trophy for the most participation. Other highlights included the annual up-down doubles exhibition demonstrating how able-bodied and wheelchair athletes can play fun and challenging matches together, as well as a UNC vs. NC State match-up between former players and coaches.
Vickie Maxwell, who has helped organize this event for three years and also serves on the Interact Board of Directors, informed the WWTA that the Charity Tennis Classic is now Interacts largest fundraising event.