Wimbledon in High River Marks 120 Years of Tennis Tradition

High River served up a memorable day of tennis on Saturday August 22 as the High River Tennis Club hosted “Wimbledon in High River – 120th Anniversary Celebration.” The event blended tradition, community spirit, and a nod to the club’s long history — one of the oldest continuously operating tennis organizations in Alberta.

Event organizer Elaine Jenkinson and a team of club volunteers coordinated every detail, from the Wimbledonstyle dress code to the classic wooden racquets supplied for play. The morning opened under ideal tennis conditions: moderate temperatures, cloud cover, and light winds. After muffins and bananas to fuel the players, three rounds — two full hours — of mixed doubles unfolded across all four courts.

More than forty people attended, including 25 players from High River, Okotoks, and Lethbridge. Ages ranged from 12 years old to the mid70s, underscoring the inclusive nature of community tennis. Over the course of the day, players completed 24 sets — more than 150 games — with all courts in continuous use for four hours of play.

After lunch, club president Leigh Izyk welcomed Councillor Vicky McGonigle, who brought greetings from the Town of High River. She congratulated the club on its 120year milestone and praised its long tradition of volunteerdriven recreation, noting its contribution to the town’s strong culture of community sport.

As the sun broke through and temperatures climbed, players returned to the courts for another two hours of spirited afternoon tennis. Following play, guests enjoyed a distinctly Wimbledonthemed tea featuring PIMMS, cucumber and sourcream finger sandwiches, and a pullapart cake shaped like a tennis racquet and tennis balls — a fitting tribute to the club’s heritage.

A highlight of the event was a raffle featuring prizes donated by local businesses. Tickets were sold as a fundraiser for the club, and many guests went home with something special.

The day’s success reflected both the club’s deep roots and its vibrant present — a community gathering that honoured tradition, welcomed new players, and celebrated 120 years of tennis in High River.