The day started with a good omen. During Danny’s singles match vs. Carlos, I excused myself to visit the WC. On my way, I happened across a turtle! For those of you closest to us, you may recall that our Nikki collected turtles. We lost her 9 years ago today. I do not believe this is a coincidence.
Danny later beat Carlos in straight sets, 6-2, 6-4. He left the courts for his afternoon swim, lunch and getting ready for doubles. Mike went to go stretch and apply all his usual goop to his tender spots. Meanwhile, the other semi-final doubles match, comprised of #2 seeds Americans Mark Vines & Wesley Cash vs. Ross Persons (our friend from Mexico City, NZ and San Diego team events) paired with #5 seed, Peter Hampton of New Zealand. Mark & Wesley were victorious in this match up, winning in straight sets 3 & 3.
Danny and Mike’s doubles match vs. #3 seeded Australian team, Andrew Rae and Gary Thoroughgood was a very well fought match on both sides. Of course, at this stage of the tournament, you rarely come across a match that is not a battle. The set scores do not reflect the quality of their long, intense baseline rallies that took all players to every corner of the court, as well as the lightning fast net battles that kept you on the edge of your seat. The Americans prevail in straight sets, 6-4, 6-2.
When I asked Mike his thoughts on the match, he said, “my partner returned unbelievably well,” and, “we got a couple lucky volleys,” followed by, “we capitalized on our opportunities.” Nicely said. On to the finals vs. Mark & Wes. All American Final! USA cannot go wrong tomorrow.
Bill, our teammate and his partner lost their doubles, as did our other teammate, Ken White. Ken and his mixed doubles partner, Mary Dailey, of the US women’s team, are in the finals tomorrow vs. Chris Hearn (GB) remember him from the team event? Grrr. & Brenda Foster (AUS). Go USA!
It is sad to see all the players departing…some didn’t stay for the individuals, but more players also arrived at that time, so it was still bustling with activity, lots of different languages occurring simultaneously, and many new friends to make. Each meal we took in brought a new friend with it. Now the busses that depart are taking all our new and old friends home as we get down to the nitty gritty. Finals tomorrow. Wish our team luck! Quote from Mark Vines at breakfast…”it’s gonna be a dogfight out there.” 
