Friday, September 2, 2011

 Most People Bouncing Tennis Balls: New York Kids set world record (HD Video)

FLUSHING MEADOWS, N.Y., USA --A total of 658 New York area kids along with their chaperones and led by Andrea Petkovic & ATP World Tour star Mardy Fish gathered to bounce a ball on their racquet for 10 seconds – a drill called "ups" - setting the new world record for the Most People Bouncing Tennis Balls on Tennis Racquets, according to World Record Academy (www.worldrecordacademy.com).

  Photo: The world record attempt for "Most people bouncing tennis balls on tennis racquets in one location" was mentored by top ranked German woman player Andrea Petkovic (center left) and top American tennis pro Mardy Fish (center right). Photo: Wilson/Patrick McDermott ( enlarge photo )

  The previous Guinness world record for the Most people bouncing tennis balls on tennis racquets in one location was 383, set in England.

Guinness World Records also recognized the world record for the highest attendance for a tennis match: 35,681 to see Kim Clijsters (Belgium) defeat Serena Williams (USA) 6-3, 6-2 at King Baudouin in Brussels, Belgium .

  The event at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, home of the US Open, was sponsored by Wilson Racquet Sports, the Official Ball of the US Open.

  In addition to dozens of volunteers, the feat was mentored by number one American tennis pro Mardy Fish, and top ranked German woman Andrea Petkovic.   Both achieved their fame using Wilson tennis racquets.

  All participants were asked to simply bounce a ball on their racquet for 10 seconds – a drill called "ups." Each received a Wilson Junior racquet and a tennis ball to encourage them to continue to play tennis in the future.

 "With a fun introduction to tennis in their early years, the sport can become a lifetime passion for many kids today, and not just on the competitive level," said Mike Steck, Global Director of Marketing for Wilson Racquet Sports.

 "Few sports offer as much in terms of pure physical exercise, conditioning, and social interaction with fellow players."

  Said Wilson Tennis athlete Mardy Fish, "Tennis is more than a spectator sport. Its low cost of entry mean kids can play at school or in local parks or recreation centers. I hope today's event provided them with the inspiration to stay in the game."