The 24 Hour Tennis Marathon brings together fundraising teams to support our mission of making tennis accessible to everyone, particularly those who don’t typically get a chance to play. The annual event provides participants with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to play at the prestigious National Tennis Centre while interacting with the biggest names in British tennis and learning about the value of inclusion.
This year three players will take on the challenge of playing continuously for 24 hours, Tracy Compton, Jonny O’Mara and Katie O’Brien and therefore there will be an additional focus on venues in Scotland and Yorkshire, and programmes designed for visually impaired participants.
Joining in on the action will be former Wimbledon semi-finalist Tim Henman and host of Channel 4’s “The Last Leg”, comedian Adam Hills. The event will feature more than 20 GB Davis Cup and Billie Jean King Cup players, Special Olympian Lily Mills, deaf tennis star Esah Hayat and wheelchair players Thomas Dodds and Daniel Wilson. Adults and children with Down’s Syndrome and learning difficulties from the charity’s “I Play 30” programme will also take part.
Tracy Compton, a blind tennis player who will defy expectations by taking part in the full 24-hour event, highlights the very essence of the charity. She has represented GB on various occasions and credits tennis for changing her life. It is the first time ever that a blind player has attempted to play for 24 hours in a row, so she is hoping to become a Guinness world record holder.
Jonny O’Mara is a former ATP Tour doubles specialist who reached a career high doubles ranking of No. 44 in 2019. He made his Grand Slam debut in Wimbledon in 2017 and claimed his maiden ATP Tour title a year later in Eastbourne. After retiring he joined Andy Murray’s coaching team and is now the National Player Programme Coach for Tennis Scotland.
Katie O’Brien is a former British No.1 representing Team GB in the Billie Jean King Cup between 2005-2010, and reached a career high singles ranking of No. 84 on the WTA rankings list. Katie was a regular at Wimbledon from 2001-2011 and is currently a National Coach and Age Group Captain for the LTA.
The funds raised will go towards expanding our inclusive tennis programme called “I Play 30” which delivers free tennis activities at more than 100 venues nationwide, to more than 1,000 participants every week. Specifically designed for people with learning, physical and sensory disabilities, the sessions teach essential life skills and support both mental and physical well-being. Tennis is a sport which can be easily adapted and has been proven to help people live longer.
Eton College, Bede’s School, Collegiate School, St Paul’s School, Cranleigh School and Mayfield School will take part with the aim to develop new programmes within their catchment areas. Leading private equity investment firm, Thoma Bravo will also ensure play continues for 24 hours as they take part.
“We are incredibly excited for this year’s fundraiser, it is a powerful testament to the transformative power of tennis and our belief that everyone should have the chance to play. It will not only raise crucial funds but also awareness of the importance of inclusive sport for all and it is fantastic to see so many players give back to the sport.” Danny Sapsford, Bright Ideas for Tennis Founder.
