The spirit of Roland-Garros arrived in Blenheim on Saturday afternoon as the Marlborough Tennis Club hosted a lively French-themed tennis afternoon against Renwick Tennis Club.

The event began at 2pm with players taking part in two rounds of 50-minute doubles matches, creating a full afternoon of competitive tennis, good food and plenty of laughter. In total, nine doubles matches were played, with Marlborough narrowly defeating Renwick by 133 games to 113.

With the French Tennis Open beginning next week, the clubhouse was transformed into a celebration of all things French. The French flag flew proudly while French love songs played throughout the afternoon, helping create a festive atmosphere both on and off the court.

Players and supporters enjoyed a selection of French-inspired food and refreshments including French onion soup, cheeses and French beer. Special thanks went to Hilary Wilkey for providing the impressive cheese selection which proved very popular with everyone attending.

The afternoon also included a “Best French Dressed” competition which added plenty of colour and humour to the occasion. Graham Boden won the men’s section, while Hannah Blakely-McWilliams and Karen Nichol shared the honours for the women’s section. Emillion Redmond presented Stephen Dempster with the winning cup during the presentations.

The event highlighted the strong relationship between the two clubs and the social side of tennis that continues to make the sport so enjoyable in the Marlborough region. Players from both clubs agreed the afternoon was a tremendous success and a fitting way to celebrate the upcoming French Open.