THE ninth annual Argus Open tennis tournament kicked off at W.E.R. Joell Tennis Stadium yesterday.

The event, which runs through July 12, is hosted and sanctioned by the Bermuda Lawn Tennis Association and has been sponsored by the Argus Group since 1999. The tournament attracts some of the island's best tennis players in the following categories: Men's A and B Singles, Ladies' A and B Singles, Mixed Doubles, Men's Doubles and Ladies' Doubles.

Allan Simmons, Honourary Life Vice President, Bermuda Lawn Tennis Association, says: "The Argus Open is a great event for the whole family and it attracts players and spectators from across the island. On behalf of the Bermuda Lawn Tennis Association and all the players, I would like to express my appreciation to the Argus Group for their continued support of this community event. We encourage everyone to come out and support the players."

Gerald Simons, President and Chief Executive Officer, the Argus Group, states: "The Argus Group is excited to sponsor an event which requires competitive sportsmanship and physical activity. Tennis is a great sport for people of all ages and all physical levels. We encourage people to come out and support the players and to witness some very exciting and competitive tennis matches."

Spectators are welcome and encouraged to attend. Admission is free. Matches are played from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. on weekday evenings and from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on the weekend. There will be a prize presentation next Saturday, July 12 immediately after the tournament.