The PANAMEX LAE TENNIS OPEN 2024 has wrapped up successfully, marking another milestone in the tournament’s history with record participation and outstanding performances across all categories.
The tournament saw a significant increase in registrations, with a total of 57 players, including 17 newcomers.
Female participation rose to 20, highlighting the growing interest among women.
The junior category also saw a surge, with 27 young players making up nearly half of the total participants.
Additionally, the number of visiting players increased from 10 to 15, featuring 12 from Port Moresby and 3 from Goroka.
Winners:
Open Category:
– Champion: Lavu Ivuyo
– Runner-Up: Eddie Mera
– Plate Winner: Mark Kerry
Women’s Open:
– Champion: Matina Asimba
– Runner-Up: Cassandra Thomas
– Plate Winner: Macklyn Meninga
Boys U19:
– Champion: Christopher Kaiulo
– Runner-Up: Mark Kerry
– Plate Winner: Darren Kiapen
Girls U19:
– Champion: Irene Jose
– Runner-Up: Idau Indiana Kaiulo
– Plate Winner: Cassandra Thomas
Masters 50+:
– Champion: Iain Kaiulo
– Runner-Up: Vikram Tikari
– Plate Winner: Jeff Yuill
Doubles Open:
– Champions: Lavu Ivuyo / Matina Asimba
– Runners-Up: Eddie Mera / Dennis Terra
– Plate Winners: Rodello Pedroza / Lea Javier
This year’s tournament featured 123 matches, a significant increase from the previous year’s 94 matches, due to the decision to expand the player draws in the Open, Women’s Open, and Doubles categories from 16 to 32 participants. This expansion provided more opportunities for players to compete.
The Lae Tennis Club (LTC) acknowledged PANAMEX PACIFIC (PNG) LTD for their third year as the naming sponsor and their generous financial contribution of K30, 000, which played a crucial role in the event’s success and the Junior Development Program.
Various local businesses also contributed as minor sponsors, including AMALPACK, ANDERSONS FOODLAND, and many others. The event was supported by LAE GOLF CLUB and LAE CHINESE CLUB, who provided courts and facilities.
Special guests John Byrne, President of Lae Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Gypsy Santiago, Operations Manager of Lae Golf Club, delivered inspiring words at the presentation.
The High-Performance Team ensured the players’ well-being throughout the tournament, and the participation of visiting players and their families was greatly appreciated.
A big thank you to all 57 players and their supportive parents. Volunteers worked tirelessly in various roles, ensuring the event’s smooth operation.
The LTC Committee’s dedication and meticulous planning were key to the event’s success.
The PANAMEX LAE TENNIS OPEN 2024 has been a remarkable success, thanks to the collective efforts of sponsors, participants, volunteers, and organizers.
LTC congratulated all the winners and showed gratitude to everyone who contributed to making this event memorable.