18 year old Jamie Wallace, BVTC member, and his doubles partner Nikki Rae reached the National Finals of the LTA's "Play Your Way to Wimbledon", and took to the grass last week in glorious sunshine. The pair, who also play for Grantham TC, won the Grantham club qualifying match and then won the Regional finals in Boston, facing teams from Lincs and Notts.

The prize - to play at Wimbledon on the grass in the National Finals. The tournament took place at Aorangi Park from 9th - 12th August. An exceptional welcome from All England club included entry into the players restaurant (where the likes of Andy Murray and Alcaraz normally relax while practicising pre match), a goody bag, access to the onsite physio, a tour of the club and a daily food allowance. In return the players have to follow the all white dress code and respect each other and the courts (any court violation could see a hefty fine of £1000).

Their first match was a bit nervy playing Suffolk pairing Flory & Lain. After going up 2-0 in both sets and lots of tight games ending in sudden death deuce, Nikki & Jamie lost 7-5, 6-4. A disappointing start but the sun shined throughout! The second match was the following day against Welsh pairing Davies & Passi and having gained confidence on the grass and the whole situation they won 6-4, 6-1. But it wasn't enough to go through to the 1/4 finals. As it turns out Suffolk went all the way to the final where they lost to George Raiswell and Charlie Robinson.

A great experience for them both and they played fantastically well. BVTC are very proud of Jamie who plays in the Leics leagues for BVTC, Lincs 1st division and National leagues but will be heading off to uni in September. So we wish him well!

In the Womens Doubles, Lincolnshire pairing Angela Halton and Emma McMahon went on to win the Play Your Way To Wimbledon title. Congratulations to them!

Pictured: Jamie Wallace & Nikki Rae

This year is the first time that adult doubles have been included in the tournament. Try it yourself next year!