The Cary Tennis Classic is celebrating its 10th anniversary with a new name, the addition of a women’s tournament, a week full of events, and more!
Formerly the Atlantic Tire Tennis Championship, the rebranded event will bring pros and promoters alike to the Cary Tennis Park August 10 to 17.
From the onset, tournament organizers have worked hard to weave community events throughout the week in an effort to give back. “The tennis community is known for their generous and philanthropic spirit, and we like to showcase that spirit at the Cary Tennis Classic,” says Ted Reese, Co-Tournament Director.
“This spirit was never more evident than through the actions of Anthony Blackman,” Reese continues. “As the title sponsor from day one as well as an active member of our Advisory Board, Anthony had an enormous impact on this event since its founding in 2015.”
To honor his memory and lifetime of impact on the Cary community, and to “carry his legacy of community service forward to future generations,” Reese explains Blackman’s close friends established the Anthony Blackman Scholars Endowment through the NC Tennis Foundation, which will grant college scholarships to high school players who have given back to the game.
With activities and matches every day, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy some amazing tennis at a public facility that rivals the absolute best in the nation. Community events are an integral part of the week and are a big component of what makes the Cary Tennis Classic so special. “The CTC is all about community, and we’ll be showing our support in a variety of ways,” Reese says. “It’s important for us to give back to Cary and the surrounding community while also showcasing some exciting tennis.”
“This is a world class tennis event coming to Cary, highlighting some of the most talented women and men’s professional tennis players on the tour,” says Mark Lawson, President of the Cary Chamber of Commerce. “You can feel the excitement and energy from the community on this event coming to the Cary Tennis Park.”
The tournament week begins with Kid’s Day on Saturday, Wheelchair Tennis Exhibition & Clinic on Sunday, and Abilities Tennis Exhibition Match & Clinic on Wednesday. Community involvement continues Thursday with a Cary Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours Dinner Reception and wraps up on Friday with the Western Wake Tennis Association (WWTA) Women’s Charity Classic to benefit Transitions LifeCare Hospice (over $250,000 raised) and Youth Scholarships (over $58,000 raised).
The tournament will also bring tourism dollars to the local economy. The Greater Raleigh Sports Alliance projects more than $600,000 in direct visitor spending from people traveling from outside Wake County.
The 2024 Cary Community Bond Referendum, which is anticipated to be on the November 5 ballot, proposes funding for an upgrade and expansion to the Cary Tennis Park as one of several parks and recreation projects.
“I don’t think people realize how high the level of tennis is until they actually sit in the stands,” Reese says. “It’s been surreal to watch the future of tennis right here in Cary! Many of these players go on to play in the US Open, Wimbledon, and other signature ATP Tour Events. Watch in Cary today — on TV tomorrow!”
For more information and tickets, visit carytennisclassic.com.
