Festival of tennis

Briella, front, Paul Osborne from Ossie's Tennis Coaching, Bradley, Dane Newman, Cardinia Shire Mayor Graeme Moore, Lachlan, Noah and Ashlin are excited for the AO Blitz to come to Cardinia Shire. Picture: MEAGAN ROGERS 110846_05

THE Australian Open has landed in Pakenham.
Pakenham Regional Tennis Centre will host the AO Blitz next month and is encouraging local tennis players to get involved.
The AO Blitz is the largest participation drive in Australian tennis history, where experienced players and those who have never picked up a racquet, have the chance to win major prizes and have an Australian Open 2014 player represent their community.
Activities in Cardinia Shire include photo opportunities with the Australian Open trophies – the Norman Brookes Challenge Cup (men’s singles trophy) and Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup (women’s singles trophy), MLC Tennis Hot Shots – modified tennis designed especially for children, cardio tennis – new tennis fitness workout, fastest serve competition and giveaways.
Registered participants earn points for taking challenges, which are then awarded to their nominated town or suburb.The places that earn the most points will be represented on court by one of the world’s top tennis players at the Australian Open 2014 including Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Andy Murray, Sam Stosur, Serena Williams or Maria Sharapova.
The AO Blitz also has an online interactive competition.
For more information visit at www.aoblitz.com.au