International athletes and local dignitaries served up a treat for young tennis fans yesterday.

Hundreds of schoolchildren got the chance to mingle with stars such as boxing champion Laila Ali — daughter of the legendary Muhammad Ali — and four-time tennis Grand Slam winner Hana Mandlíková at an event at the WER Joell Tennis Stadium in Pembroke.

All of the Island's primary, middle and secondary schools were invited to take part in the day, which included tennis drills, exhibitions, prizes, coaching clinics, doubles games and a question-and-answer session.

Opposition Leader Michael Dunkley and US Consul General Gregory Slayton were among those hitting against local juniors on the court. To watch them in action and see a video interview with Ms Ali, visit www.theroyalgazette.com.

Other guests yesterday included Education Minister Randy Horton; former New York Mayor David Dinkins; National Football League star Curtis Conway, husband of Ms Ali; and former tennis champion and broadcaster Katrina Adams.

The event was part of the annual Celebrity Tennis Classic, organised by the Bermuda Tennis Development Foundation, which raises funds to send young tennis players abroad to compete in world-ranking tournaments.

Foundation chairman David Lambert, who is also president of Bermuda Lawn Tennis Association, said it was a great way to introduce youngsters to tennis. "We want them to come out and have fun," he said.

The Tennis Classic raised close to $34,000 in 2006 and is expected to top that amount this year. Mr. Lambert said the Island's top eight young players would benefit from the funds. "Every nickel and dime goes to assist our juniors in travelling overseas," he said."