The 2006 Hellenic Tennis Championships presented by Thomas Hotels was once again a showpiece of great tennis talent with local and international tennis players taking part.
With 12 hotly contested events over a warm and sometimes windy long weekend at Cintra Park Tennis Centre, players and spectators alike enjoyed this celebration of tennis. Once again events were organised to offer maximum participation and allow players of all ages and heritage to play in the tournament.
For those players of Hellenic heritage, the prestigious Mark Philippoussis Cup was keenly contested. A 32 strong draw brought the number 1 seed, Dimitri Savvides and number 3 seed Cameron Hobbs together for the final with Dimitri proving too strong for his opponent taking the title out 6/1, 6/2. For his great tennis display, Dimitri was rewarded with a return trip to Greece courtesy of Gulf Air plus $500 in cash.
Last years winner of the Open Mens Singles, Jurek Stasiak, once again proved too good for a quality field of opposition defeating up and coming player, Jimmy Rigg in a final of high quality tennis, winning the match 6-2, 7-6
In a look to the future tennis talent in Australia, the 2006 Hellenic Tennis Championships showcased some tremendous talent in the 14 and under and 16 and under age groups for both males and females. Congratulations to Kyle Stoker and Andrew Erakleous who won the Boys 16 and 14 and under events respectively as well as Marina Zhang and Dene Anemogiannis who won the Girls 16 and 14 and under events respectively.
President of the Hellenic Tennis Association, Mr John Giavis wanted to give credit to the wonderful sponsors the event attracts and looks forward to providing an even bigger and better event in 2007. He stated “without the support and assistance of our sponsors as well as continued involvement of the tennis community none of this would be possible. On behalf of the Hellenic Tennis Association we thank all participants and look forward to seeing you all again next year”
To cap off this wonderful event, a Presentation Ceremony was held at the end of play on the finals day with special guests Mr Alan Jones AO and the Hon Ioannis Raptakis, Consul General of Greece in Sydney attending the event. All winners and players were honoured with their respective prizes and the evening was well attended with a great time enjoyed by all.
