The tour heads to Adelaide today to visit the Tennis SA Millswood Complex with Alicia Molik also attending as a special guest.
Tennis fans can feel like a Grand Slam® champion as they enjoy their very own photo opportunity with the Norman Brookes Challenge Cup (men’s trophy) and Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup (women’s trophy) at the Tennis SA Millswood Complex from 9.30am – 2.00pm on Friday.
For the first time in Australian Open history the winner of the men’s and women’s singles titles will take home an exact full-size replica trophy instead of the miniature replica past champions have received.
MLC Tennis Hot Shots Ambassador and former world No.8 Alicia Molik said, “Bringing the magnificent Australian Open trophies to regional areas and cities across Australia is a great way to build the excitement and get everyone thinking about the Australian Open in January.”
To welcome the trophies to Adelaide, local five to 12 year olds will be showcasing their tennis skills in the MLC Tennis Hot Shots program.
“I wish MLC Tennis Hot Shots was around when I was starting out” said Molik, who will be in attendance this Friday at the Tennis SA Millswood Complex.
“I have no doubt the MLC Tennis Hot Shots program will help inspire our tennis stars of the future.
“The program lets kids learn the sport quickly and easily, build their confidence and also gets them active through playing sport.
“Using the modified equipment makes it easier for beginners to start playing the game, and it is a great way to introduce kids to tennis.”
Richard Thorne, the Mayor of the City of Unley, will be among those in line to have his photo taken with the trophies and having a hit of tennis with the MLC Tennis Hot Shots.
“On behalf of the City of Unley, I am delighted Tennis Australia and Tennis South Australia have included us in the Australian Open Trophy Tour. It is great for the community to be able to see the Australian Open Trophies that are presented to the Australian Open winners,” Mayor Thorne said.
The Adelaide leg on the Australian Open Trophy Tour coincides with State Tennis Australian Motors October Age Championships, which will also be taking place at the Tennis SA Millswood Complex from October 8-10.
Chief Executive Officer of Tennis SA, Alistair McDonald said, “The State Tennis Australian Motors October Age Championships is part of the 2010 Optus Junior Tour, an umbrella tour that provides a clear competitive pathway for aspiring junior tennis players.”
Following the Adelaide visit the trophies will head to Hobart, Darwin, Perth, Esperance, Sydney, Canberra, Rockhampton, Brisbane and Bendigo before finishing their journey at Melbourne Park on January 17, day one of Australian Open 2011.
Fans can follow the trophies around the country online by visiting australianopen.com.au/trophy
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