22-23 Feb | 24 Hour Tennis Marathon

23/02/2025 12:00:00

Bright Ideas for Tennis - 24 Hour Tennis Marathon
22-23 February 2025
National Tennis Centre, Roehampton

Bright Ideas for Tennis is set to host a 24-hour tennis marathon at the National Tennis Centre in Roehampton, featuring former British tennis professionals Jonny O’Mara and Katie O’Brien alongside GB Blind Tennis Player Tracy Compton. The event aims to raise funds for the charity's "I Play 30" initiative, which provides inclusive tennis programmes for individuals with learning, physical and sensory disabilities.

In a world-first, Compton will attempt to play tennis continuously for 24 hours, highlighting the inclusivity of the sport and demonstrating how tennis can be adapted to empower athletes of all abilities. Joining them for this inspiring challenge is tennis legend Tim Henman, comedian Adam Hills, over 20 GB Davis Cup and Billie Jean King Cup players. Special guests include Paralympians, Special Olympians and wheelchair tennis stars, as well as participants from the "I Play 30" disability programme.

This year’s event also marks the involvement of Thoma Bravo, one of the largest software-focused investors in the world, as the title sponsor. Their support will enable Bright Ideas for Tennis to expand its programme to more venues, providing greater access to tennis for a wider range of participants, particularly those who may not have had the opportunity before. The "I Play 30" initiative not only promotes physical and mental well-being but also teaches vital life skills, fostering a sense of community and inclusion.

This unique event offers fundraising teams the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to play at the prestigious National Tennis Centre in Roehampton whilst interacting with the biggest names in British tennis and learning about the value of inclusion. Fundraising teams include Eton College and St Paul’s School.

'This event is a testament to the transformative power of tennis. We are thrilled to have the support of both our tennis community and Thoma Bravo as we continue to raise awareness and funds for disability tennis to get more people experiencing the benefits of this wonderful sport.' Danny Sapsford, Founder of Bright Ideas for Tennis.

Children from schools across the UK will come together to ensure play continues for 24 hours, from 12 noon Saturday 22 February through to 12 noon on Sunday 23 February. All funds raised from the event will help to continue to expand the inclusive tennis programme across the UK, bringing local venues and SEND schools together to provide free access to 1 hour group coaching per week for students.

If you would like to support Tracy Compton's mammoth challenge, visit her fundraising page here.

Here's a short film from the Tennis Foundation explaining how VI tennis is played: