Raj aces the senior scene
He's better known for running marathons, but is now doing well on the tennis courts too.
RAJ Naganna will wing his way to Cape Town to play in the National Seniors Tennis Champs in May this year.
He is playing in the 65 to 70 year-old category, but, honestly, looks younger than that.
Raj will turn 68 on March 30.
His rankings at the moment are: singles 20th, doubles 6th, mixed doubles 2nd.
In doubles he plays with Joe Solomon from Gauteng and in mixed with Antuhla Markovitz from Cape Town.
Raj’s son Kayden helped him with regards to getting to his first tournament.
NG Used Spares is helping him cover his costs to get to Cape Town.
Raj thanked his hitting partner Dan Dimitriu for making time available to practise.
While his form on the court has been good, Raj has been battling a knee injury. “It swells up a bit when I run,” he said.
However, this is a man who has run numerous Comrades and Washie marathons so he knows how to manage his aches and pains.
He loves the game of tennis, and competing in these big events.
“It’s fun and you meet some wonderful people. Tennis really has the friendliest people,” he said.
Raj encourages youngsters to take up the sport, saying that there was coaching available at Umtentweni Tennis Club.
Anyone who would like to help him with his travel costs can contact him at 083 5555021.
MORE TENNIS
Silky smooth snacks at Tweni
IT was hot and humid at Umtentweni Tennis Club last Saturday, but a wonderful afternoon of tennis was had by all who filled the four courts in action.
John Silk’s now famous gingerbread and sarmies gave that extra boost of energy needed by the players in the heat and he is thanked for arranging the sets as well.
It was good to have John back on the courts after a short sabbatical.
Members hope that Elena Whately will be feeling better soon as everyone will have nothing to complain about with no one to lob and play short shots like she does.
Chloe Dutton has done a sterling job spraying round the courts and in the clubhouse to get rid of those pesky ants. Thanks, Chloe, for your hard work.
Jill Badenhorst and Raj Naganna celebrate their birthdays on the 28th and 30th respectively and are wished a great day with a year filled with strong knees and legs for a speedy return to tennis, Jill, and happy cycling, Raj.
Members should note that work will start on the bottom courts soon but the top courts will be available for social tennis.
Saturday duty: March 28 – Pam Grobler.
