8 January 2016 | Tennis Victoria
The 60th annual Inter-regional Country Championships got underway in perfect conditions on Friday, with 192 matches played across the day.
After a busy day of qualifying, defending men’s open singles, doubles and mixed doubles champion Matthew Hicks (Barwon) is through to the quarter-finals against Echuca’s Isaac Watson (Northern Mallee), while top seed Eliza Long (Loddon Campaspe) will play Nicole Mullen (Barwon).
Kyabram’s David Starling, who is the senior men’s singles, doubles and mixed doubles defending champion, returns to the event in 2016 with his daughter Brooke Starling.
“This is my seventh year at the event, we have played all over Victoria, it’s great fun,” said Starling who represents the Goulburn region.
“The Inter-regionals are a unique event from the point that, in local competition you’re always playing against the best players, you’re never with them, and this is a chance for us to come away as a team, play together and cheer each other on.”
Mornington’s Courntey Skene also credited the team atmosphere as to why she loves the event.
“It’s a good atmosphere here and to participate in a team is great,” said the 18-year-old who in 2015 finished runner up the 18/u singles final. “We all watch each other and no matter if you win or lose, it’s still fun.
“This is my fifth year playing at the Inter-regionals, it is pretty tough competition each year.
“The courts are awesome in Swan Hill. I love coming up here, and it’s really good to get some match experience on the grass.”
Day two of the event will see players compete in main draw and consolation singles and mixed doubles matches.
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