Last night I was lucky enough to included in a family outing that I won't soon forget. I was tagging along with the Young family to a charity tennis event held in Adelaide. Due to baseball Ali and I arrived about and hour late. Just in time to watch the headliners play. I have never been one to watch Tennis; in fact I am usually upset with the fact the US Open or Wimbledon is playing on ESPN instead of a football or baseball game but to watch this event live was something special. The headliners for this event were Pat Cash, the famous Aussie tennis player and the legendary John McEnroe. McEnroe was my tennis equivalent of the Grand Canyon I've heard about him, seen pictures and video on TV but to see him play live was incredible. His temper and flare were still ever present.
At first I questioned if the antics were all just part of the show. I quickly realized, however, that although it may be part of the show he was very genuine in his temperament. That made the experience that much more awesome (awesome in the manner of inspiring awe). His serve still the contorting twist away from his opponent followed with the smooth overhand finish was exactly as I have seen in classic films of matches against Bjorn Borg.
The doubles matches that followed were equally impressive not for competitive skill or awe but for sheer comedy. The ability of each player was still on display however the ability for career pros to show their talent through executing near impossible shots. Some rallies turned to badminton matches where the ball did not touch the court for several returns. Often a player would swing and miss his attempt on the fly but turn only to return it on the bounce. One rally failed to involve the players at the net, but they solved the problem by retrieving an extra ball and volleying back and forth. It was like watching the Harlem Globetrotters of tennis. I thoroughly enjoyed this outing and as I mention- will not soon forget.
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