Tennis players give 'boost' to game, ahead of Chennai open

Chennai, Dec 30 (UNI) Indian tennis legend Vijay Amritraj and his son Prakash Amritraj trading volleys on the tennis court? Improbable: because they are 'a generation apart', so to speak.

They were taking on each other, not as rivals, but as part of a programme, got up by popular health drink 'Boost' to draw more youngsters to tennis on the eve of the ATP Tour Chennai Open 2008, beginning here tomorrow.

The event drew great response this year, with many parents watching their kids playing tennis at the sub-junior level in their schools and private academies in the city turning up for the educative and thrilling experience of playing alongside stars.

Apart from Vijay and Prakash, Roger Federer's doubles partner Ives Alegaro partnering upcoming Indian talent Yuki Bhambri, Marcos Baghdatis and the defending champion Xavier Mallise played tennis with the kids and imparted lessons about the game and the route to make it to the top.

Parents were also advised not to pressure their kids to win matches and ensure that they enjoy the game till the age of 13 or so. But they emphasised on improving physical fitness.

UNI