Welch Cup
What started about 10 years ago as a friendly wager between Jeff Davis of Treasure Island and Tampa’s Brad Welch has developed into a sometimes-annual day of high-level competition between Pinellas and Hillsborough players.
Last month, three women’s doubles age divisions and seven men’s competed at the Harbor Island Athletic Club for bragging rights in the Welch Cup Battle of the Bay.
This year, Pinellas won eight divisions compared to two for Hillsborough.
“We’ve done this six or seven times and traded victories about evenly,” said Davis. “It started with just the men’s doubles divisions, then added women and juniors, although we had no juniors this year.
“There is no fee to play and all are encouraged — if so desired — to make a donation to a charity — this year we contributed to the Jimmy V Foundation.”
All’s Pretty in Pink
2013 Pretty in Pink players relaxing
After months of planning, the Pretty in Pink Charity Tennis Tournament gets underway this month at Countryside Country Club in Clearwater.
The two-day fundraiser kicks off with a player-guest draw party Sept. 26 that will include a dinner, drinks and silent and live auctions. Women’s compass-draw doubles competition is Sept. 27, followed by mixed doubles Sept. 28.
Matches in both events matches will be 8-game pro sets with no-ad scoring.
According to first-year Tournament Director Tori DiSalvio, a full slate of players — 136 is the max — is expected each day with hopes of raising about $22,000.
Proceeds from the fundraiser will benefit breast health programs and services of Morton Plant Mease Health care.
To learn more, visit www.prettyinpinktennis.com.
