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| SUN LAKES LIFESTYLES | AUGUST 2023 | 67 Our July Lifestyles article featured a Tennis Tip about courtesy. Now, a month later, it seems appropriate to stress the role and value of published rules that govern both those who play tennis, and others within Sun Lakes who may, on rare occasions, violate the proper use of our six courts. First, please notice that there are a number of posted rules at the entrance doors to our six courts. Those rules have to do with assigned hours of access by men or women, avoidance of noise that would bother neighbors, appropriate attire, and guidance for when there is high demand for access and play. For example, black soled shoes will cause court damage. Further, our courts must not be used to exercise dogs, something that has taken place causing court surface damage. Unposted, but equally important, roller blades, roller skates, skateboards, and bicycles must not enter our courts. Second, from time to time, due to normal wear and tear, our six court surfaces need to be resurfaced. The next resurfacing project is on the Sun Lakes Country Club calendar for next year, 2024. The members of our Tennis Club are proud of our facilities because they meet the highest standards. We often host visiting USTA men's and women's teams, and we do so with pride in the quality of our tennis facility. Thank you to everyone who shares our sense of pride and honors the spirit and the letter of the rules that are posted. Third, take the opportunity to learn the skills of the game with a Tennis Tip from our pro, Phil Hazelton. Phil tells us that a friend had asked him what to do against an opponent that hits flat, fast shots. Phil's answer was to offer the following as a best strategy: Change the pace by hitting high, deep shots along with heavy spin balls. Changing the pace will get one's opponent out of their comfort zone. A strategy of hitting harder and faster will not work. In fact, the harder you hit, the faster the ball gets to the other player. Then that player will catch you out of position. Also, your own errors will increase. Once you recognize that your opponent's errors have increased, you can then return to your own game style. And, as always, keep your eye on the ball and the fun in your game. Thank you, Phil. Great advice for every player who wishes to improve their play. Tennis Senior Derby At the July's Derby, all competitors started strong but there were inevitable missteps. It was a ding dong for much of the race but Niles Muckracker (at le) took a late lead and won by a nose. Have you ever wanted to be in a horse race … not as a jockey, but as a horse? We have just the club for you! Every Monday at the Sun Lakes Downs, members take their marks and race to the finish line! Don't want to race? We have a betting window available. Box that trifecta! Come on with that three! For more information, call club President Sire Racealot at (909) 797-3647.

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