As we count down to the Australian Open in January, Victorians are set for an early taste of the Grand Slam as the magnificent AO trophies tour the state, visiting more than 20 communities as part of AO on the Road.
The much-loved Norman Brooks Challenge Cup and Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup will begin their journey in Bacchus Marsh this Sunday, before travelling to community events in Castlemaine, Pomonal, Mt Beauty, Warrnambool, Morwell, Red Hill and Mount Eliza.
This popular initiative brings the excitement of the Australian Open to rural and regional communities across Victoria, giving tennis fans the chance to see and even pose with the prestigious trophies.
Throughout AO on the Road, Australian tennis champion and former Davis Cup captain John Fitzgerald will make special appearances, meeting fans and celebrating the spirit of tennis. Players and members of the community will have the chance to pose with the AO silverware, like so many AO champions have before them.
‘Norm’ and ‘Daphne’, as the trophies are affectionately known, will also travel to several schools and tennis clubs, where children will have the chance to participate in Hot Shots activities.
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AO on the Road will conclude at the Inter-Regional Championships, as it has for several years now, which will be held in Creswick in early January. From there, the trophies will begin their journey back to Melbourne for the Australian Open.
“AO on the Road is a fantastic initiative. It brings the prestige and excitement of the Australian Open to rural and regional areas, while showcasing Victoria’s incredible tennis communities who do so much important work,” Fitzgerald said.
AO on the Road is delivered by Tennis Australia and Tennis Victoria, with support from the Victorian Government’s Visit Victoria.
AO on the Road locations:
- Bacchus Marsh Tennis Club - Sunday 13 October
- Castlemaine Tennis Club - Saturday 19 October
- Pomonal - Sunday 27 October
- Mt Beauty - Sunday 3 November
- Warrnambool - Sunday 24 November
- Morwell - Saturday 30 November
- Red Hill Tennis Club - Sunday 1 December
- Mt Eliza - Sunday 15 December