Vincentian youngster triumphs in debut outing at regional tennis tournament

In her debut appearance at a tennis tournament, a Vincentian emerged victorious in the Girls 10 and under category at the inaugural Chatoyer’s Regional Tennis Invitational Tournament this week.

Zahra Hypolite won the trophy for St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) against Briella Lake of St Kitts and Nevis 4-2, 4-5(5),10-8 in an exciting, hard fought, final match at the National Tennis Centre at Villa on August 23.

The invitational tournament attracted local and regional players including players from Guyana, Grenada and St Kitts/Nevis, among others.

“I was a bit nervous at first but once I made friends, it was easier to play,” Zahra told SEARCHLIGHT, confirming the congeniality which seemed to be the overall vibe of the tournament.

On her way to the finals, Zahra played Amaia Waterstone (SVG), Nakayda Cain (SVG) and Briella Lake in the girls singles.

She and her mixed doubles partner Greyson Burrel were runners up to Briella Lake & Tzuriel Percival in the mixed doubles finals.

Zahra, who trains with Love All Tennis Academy was happy to win the trophy and thrilled to make regional friends and experience the camaraderie and competition of a great Boys & Girls 12 and under & 10 and under tournament, organized by the National Tennis Association.

The tournament ran from August 19 to 24.

Zahra’s late great-uncle Perry Norris (Sr.) was also an avid tennis player, so tennis may be in her blood.