Tournament Recap: National Clay Court Championships (Ages 55–85)

Tournament News

Apr 15

Liane Bryson

DATES: April 1–5, 2025
LOCATION: Pelham, AL
DIVISIONS: Ages 55–85

This year’s National Clay Court Championships took place at a new venue—the Pelham Racquet Club in Pelham, Alabama, a beautifully maintained public facility run by the city. Players arrived ready to embrace the new location, leaving behind comparisons to past sites and instead, focused on the spirit of competition. Tournament director Ryen Valentine and his team delivered a smooth, well-run event that made everyone feel welcome and valued.

Due to an error in listing the event on the USTA site (which mistakenly placed the 55s National Clays in Savannah, GA this fall), the field was a bit smaller than usual. But what it lacked in size, it more than made up for in heart.

Kathy Settles and Anne Frautschi were in dominant form in the 55 doubles, steamrolling through the draw without dropping a set to win gold over #1 seeded Sue Kaleel and Christen Charlton. Settles, taking a quick break from NWTO co-president duties, also clinched gold in the 55 singles over Argentina’s Maria Perez Gimenez.

In the 75 singles, Judy Dixon, who had been in stellar form, was forced to default the final due to a quad strain, granting the gold to Gwenda Ward. Dixon partnered with Liane Bryson in doubles, where they used clever spins and crafty drop shots to claim gold for the team over Ward/Pfeiffer.

And in the 85 draw, the legendary Roz King reminded everyone that age is just a number—sweeping both singles over Ingrid Rehwinkel and doubles (with partner Dorothy Wasser) in royal fashion. Roz continues to reign supreme on any surface.

Tournament Extras

As expected with a first-time venue, there were some great takeaways for next year. Ryen Valentine welcomed feedback and is already working on improvements—such as partnering with local pros and leagues to increase local player turnout.

NWTO pitched in with financial support mitigate costs of player amenities, including stylish cooler bags perfect for courtside hydration. Players also appreciated the onsite physio team who provided much needed stretching and massage therapy for tired muscles. And let’s not forget the delicious complimentary Wednesday lunch (yes, more of that next year, please!).

Perhaps most exciting of all: a local TV news station covered the event, giving our age-group competitors some well-deserved time in the spotlight. (Check out the CBS 42 feature HERE.)