Commonwealth Bank Tennis Classic 2007 E-Newsletter / 3rd edition / August 2007

Kevin Livesey

Message from Tournament President

The largest women's tennis tournament in South East Asia is just around the corner and we are all geared up to make it a successful event for everyone. The big news is that Lindsay Davenport has confirmed her participation and this is kudos for us that she has chosen to stage her come back in professional tennis in Bali . Her presence will definitely increase the dynamics of the event.

There is always the good news and bad news. The good being Lindsay's return and the bad is the sudden passing away of a great tennis fan and journalist, Benny Malili. Benny was a fixture at this tournament and many other tournaments in the region and he was tireless in his efforts to support young players and improve the profile of tennis in the region. We will certainly miss his presence this year in Bali .

School Invasion from Bank Commonwealth
In line with efforts to increase the level of tennis awareness in Indonesia, Commonwealth Bank is organizing a “School Invasion" programme. The programme is designed to inform school children about the Commonwealth Bank Tennis Classic and tennis in general and the opportunities in the game. There will be coaching clinics as well. About 200 ground passes will be distributed per school so the children will be able to come to the tournament and enjoy some of the games on the courts. This is just one of the opportunities to increase the children's awareness of tennis.

Kids Day
A special kid's day will be held on Saturday, 8 September. There will be fun filled activities of games, clowns, balloons etc to keep kids entertained from 2:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. There will also be opportunities for kids to go on court to try their skills at hand ball coordination. This event is supported by Canggu Club.

Schiavone too GOOD for her own GOOD
Francesca Schiavonne sends her regrets, but she once again has to put country before self and will be unable to play at the Commonwealth Bank Tennis Classic in September. Her sterling performance at the recent Fed Cup semi-finals against France helped take cup-holders Italy into the finals once again, where they will face Russia . Francesca set Italy on the road to victory when she beat former world number one and Australian Open and Wimbledon winner Amelie Mauresmo in straight sets. The next day, she battled back from 5-2 down in the final set to defeat Tatiana Golovin, and then teamed up with Roberta Vinci to clinch the tie for Italy . It is the second year in succession that Francesca will have to miss out on one of the most popular stops on the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour, meaning disappointment for the popular 2005 finalist. "Of course I am happy to play for my country in the Fed Cup finals, but at the same time I am disappointed that once again I will not be able to play in Bali ," said Francesca. "I had such a wonderful time when I was there, and hope I will be able to return in 2008."