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More about the game
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A Dream Come True
The creation of a 2-court Real Tennis centre is the achievement of the Club's owner, Mike Carter, who was introduced to the game when he was at university. Since then, he has had a passion for the game, and felt it should be enjoyed and celebrated by more people. He was determined, at some point in his life, to build a court (or two!) … and at Prested he found his spot. The centre opened in 1999.
The Prested Courts
The courts are fully insulated, with under floor heating, and one of the courts features a glass “grille” wall, ensuring excellent and exciting viewing for a large audience. There is only one other court with this feature in the world. We also have a viewing gallery above the side penthouses, and the traditional viewing area, known as the “dedans”.
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Our Professionals
Local young man Ricardo Smith, who learnt his real tennis at Prested has returned here with his friend Ben Matthews as resident professionals.
With both of them in the world’s top 10 players, only the New York club can claim such a dynamic professional duo. Visitors can enjoy watching them practice together most days – ring the contact number below to find out when you can catch them on court. Ricardo and Ben are ably assisted by Prested’s Lawn Tennis Pro, Steve Taylor.
Club Nights
Real Tennis members can book a space for a Club Night on Tuesday nights when they can play against other members and enjoy a tasty home-cooked 2-course supper in the club room.
Membership
Tennis-only members can go for a swim after playing. Full club members can also enjoy the gym, 20m pool and sauna, and the 3 Astro lawn tennis courts. For membership rates click here.
Why is Real Tennis so Special?
Real Tennis is not only the world's oldest ball game, it is also the most fascinating and satisfying, for young and old alike. Only a few years ago the world’s No 2 (Wayne Davis) was aged 47. In how many highly physical sports could this happen? Uniquely, Real Tennis - because it is also a game of experience, tactics and thinking rapidly on your feet. You’re never too old for this game!
Handicaps
Every player is allotted a handicap which enables them to play against any other player. Their starting score is determined by the handicap difference between the two (or four) players.
The Court
The game is played on an indoor court with a central net. The game was originally played in the cloisters of monasteries, a courtyard with sloping surrounding walls – and this space is replicated in modern Real Tennis courts.
Tournaments and Master Classes
Real Tennis members at Prested enjoy various national tournaments – both as individuals and with club teams, and enjoy Prested in-house tournaments. We are proud to host and coach two of the best junior lady players in the world, in their age group. We are also delighted to host master classes given by several of the world’s top players.
Residential Real Tennis Breaks
We welcome groups from other clubs for mid-week residential breaks at Prested Hall, where they can enjoy court time at the Club, and, if they wish, take advantage of some extra coaching from Matt or Steve.
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Other Courts
There are courts in Australia, the USA, France – 46 in the world. The other two-court centres are in London, New York, Melbourne and Cambridge.
Real Tennis News Worldwide
For the latest country-and world-wide Real Tennis news please visit www.realtennisonline.com. It has a news and message board, called “Open Forum” and also contains the international web-based handicapping calculator and registry - essential viewing for all players. In order to log-on as a full user you need to be vouched for by your club, so let us know if you are a member and want to become recognised. The professionals also have their own http://www.IRTPA.com.
House Rules
Please note Prested operates a no smoking policy throughout its premises. We regret that pets are not permitted inside the Club or Hall.
Contact
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Image courtesy of British Land |
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Call The Hall - 01376 573300
Call The Club - 01376 573399
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Click here to email The Hall
Click here to email The Club
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