I would possibly have put this in the mens section but for now felt it sat under general.
I had a coffee with someone who is heavily involved in Ilkley tournament today. He was telling me that the aspiration for Ilkley is to aim to get to a full ATP Tour 250 level event. They have had discussions with the ATP and apparently there is some appetite for a post Wimbledon ATP 250 event on grass and the discussion is around a slot opposite Newport.
The issue is not so much financing, which is apparently there, and not facilities (apparently in various surveys that have been taken, Ilkley gets rated top by players and officials against the other GB challengers and possible venues such as Manchester or Surbiton), which they will upgrade, but the concern is over the courts. The Northern weather is unpredictable as we all know and the quality of the grass preparation has to be spot on to get a main tour event, so they are looking at various ways to use technology and maintenance to ensure they get a top level surface. In addition, it would give the North a top level event which hasnt been the case since the manchester event had ATP status back in the 1990's.
It sounds like it is aspiration with lots of talking to do still, but shows that a lot of ambition exists.
I've been to Ilkley a couple of times.There is plenty of money as they have improved facilities significantly in the last few years. There was a lack of decent covers and the weather is always an issue. The courts may need leveling as well.
It's a decent venue and there is plenty of room compared to Manchester to step up.
Very pleased to get 2 finals day tickets for ilkley Challenger as a very nice Xmas pressie. Was surprised they are available so early but my parents managed to get them (not actually physically sent until nearer the date) so me and my wife will enjoy a nice day there in late June.
Very pleased to get 2 finals day tickets for ilkley Challenger as a very nice Xmas pressie. Was surprised they are available so early but my parents managed to get them (not actually physically sent until nearer the date) so me and my wife will enjoy a nice day there in late June.
My wife has just told me she has little interest in going to watch "some blokes bashing a yellow ball around" and so it looks like my Dad and I will be going to the tennis at Ilkley. I hope we get some decent weather, plenty of time for that I guess!
Love the Ilkley Tennis Club. Been at some British Tours and junior events there and everybody is just so friendly, positive and upbeat. I hope they can work out how to get a tour event.
