Sport

Keeping fit and active outdoors

seasons, which can be quite a challenge with the weather during the winter months!

During the COVID pandemic, tennis was one of the last sports to close due to lockdown. Once restrictions were eased, outdoor tennis was one of the first sports to resume play, emphasising the healthy and social aspects of a noncontact sport.

Okehampton’s tennis courts are often thought of as a ‘hidden gem’ by Okehampton and District Tennis Club www.okehamptontennisclub.co.uk . They are in a wonderful location with ample parking next to the OCRA sports pavilion, so players can enjoy keeping fit with no passing vehicles polluting the atmosphere.

You do not have to join the club to play tennis on the courts - though it is thoroughly recommended if you like to play regularly - you can also book and pay online or join the OCRA family membership ocrasport.org.uk/tennis/ which also gives free use of the courts.

The O&DTC has regular weekly sessions (Tuesday 6-9pm and Saturday 2-5pm) and also runs ‘Rusty Rackets’ on a Monday, 10am-11.20am. All abilities welcome, just turn up on a Monday morning to play, for £3. As the courts have an all weather surface, rain does not always ‘stop play’, and with the recent addition of new lighting, play can continue after sundown.

For junior budding players, the Saturday mornings coaching has had a ‘facelift’, with new coach Nick Bond keeping the enthusiasm and energy flowing. Membership is again not a necessity, opening the opportunity for all to have a go!

Another benefit of joining O&DTC is the chance to take part in the Exeter League and the East Devon Tennis League. All competitive team members are encouraged to participate with two ladies doubles teams, a mixed doubles team and a men’s doubles team taking part. These leagues run in the two With the country coming out of lockdown, the O&DTC committee is looking to hold its long awaited annual meeting. There is always the need for keen members to get involved, support and run an enthusiastic club - just contact one of the members for further information www. okehamptontennisclub.co.uk

With the summer months here the committee is looking to run some inter-club competitions, reinstate Family Sunday sessions and restart the friendly tennis sessions with other local clubs.

With a new look sports pavilion on their doorstep, joining the O&DTC can be a healthy and social step for coming out of the current lockdown. It will be an exciting year to be involved as tennis play for all resumes in the local community.

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