IT was two days of gruelling competition and despite the showers of blessings that occasionally threatened to pull the curtains down on the event, the young tennis players prevailed and those who persevered came out on top.

In fact the objectives of the Hi-Lyte Open Junior Tennis Championships held at the Liguanea Club was met in helping to prepare the juniors for local and international events. Though fewer in numbers as the previous years, the juniors put on quite a show.

Brand and marketing manager for Hi-Lyte Sport Drink, Julette HoSang, said supporting the youth is critical to Jamaica’s Development and that it is a part of Hi-Lyte Sports Drinks’ strategy to support the future of Jamaica’s athletes.

“Every year we look forward to reconnecting with the past players, and greet the new ones who are now of age to participate. It is rewarding to see how the quality of the tennis being played has improved, and the various techniques and strategies they use, as they continue to mature,” HoSang said.

Hi-Lyte, she noted, is committed to providing affordable hydration to Jamaican athletes and added that this is important in today’s economic environment.

Meanwhile, tournament director Llockett McGregor said he was disappointed with the dwindling numbers of players now signing up for the tournaments.

“Tennis is a great game and I am encouraging many more young people to get involved and play in the tournaments. The matches have a lot to offer and they could definitely benefit from the exposure,” McGregor said.