Surbiton Racket & Fitness Club director Roy Staniland reckons the 2012 Olympics forced the club to up its game when it comes to hosting ATP Challenger Tour events.
The Berrylands club hosted their annual $50,000 pre-Wimbledon grass court tournament last week dodging the showers to finish with finals day on Sunday.
Top class: Surbiton Rackets & Fitness Club in all its glory last week for the ATP Challenger Tour tournament
Preparations for the event at the 20-court facility began 11 months prior to last week the first fall being hit last Monday, with a full two weeks being devoted to building spectator stands - compared to a three-day build in the competition’s first year.
Popular spot: The tennis attracted good growds to Berrylands at Surbition Rackets & Fitness Club last week
“Since the London Olympics, there are a lot more sporting events taking place,” said Staniland, a director at the club for the past 30 years.
“We need to make sure we’ve got the right equipment, marquees and stands well ahead of time to ensure we have a good fan experience.
"I’ve seen a lot of changes at the club and a major upgrade of the facilities.”
Talent spotting: Britain's Emily Arbuthnott in women's doubles action at Surbiton Rackets & Fitness Club last week
ATP vice president of player relations and former Davis Cup star Ross Hutchins says the club has retained its character despite the event’s growth.
“Growing up as a British tennis player, the summer grass court season has such prominence in the tennis calendar,” said Hutchins.
Aussie bashing: Australia's Luke Saville takes aim at Surbiton last week
“Being in London always has and still attracts such strong players.
"The feel of the club is unique and the fans are close to the action."
"The traditional feel of the club makes players feel like they are part of the history of tennis.”
Russia’s Marina Melnikova beat France’s Stephanie Foretz 6-3 7-6 to claim the women’s singles title, while Taipei’s Yen Hsun Lu beat Mariuus Copil of Romania 7-5 7-6 to win the men’s title.
From far and wide: Canada's Adil Shamazdin was among the overseas stars at Surbiton Rackets & Fitness Club last week
US pair Melanie Oudin and Sanaz Marand lifted the women’s doubles trophy thanks to a 6-4 7-5 triumph over fourth seeds Robin Anderson and Alison Bai.
While Indian duo Purav Raja and Divij Sharan beat Brits Ken and Neal Skupski 6-4 7-6 in the men’s doubles final.
Open Aussie: Australia's Jordan Thompson hits a forehand at Surbition's ATP Challenger Tour event last week
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