THE Bahamas national tennis team of Justin Roberts and Rasheed Carey participated in the Youth Olympic Games in Nanjing, China. The team, coached by Ricardo Demeritte, left the Bahamas on August 11 and returned on August 31.

The week leading into competition, the team took advantage of the facilities provided utilising the weight and yoga rooms, practice track, both indoor and outdoor tennis courts, massage treatments and, most importantly, visiting the ATP physiotherapist provided by the ITF.

The team’s preparation week consisted of 2-3 hours of on-court training per day focusing on tactics and a few technical adjustments. The team was able to play practice matches between Peru and Poland. On-court training was followed by an hour of fitness and personal stretching.

In singles, Roberts took on the No. 10 player in the world Duck Hu-Lee of Korea. After having a slow start, dropping the opening set 6-3, Roberts began to show his true abilities. He fought and battled his way into the match to gain a 4-3 lead.

However, he was unable to keep it. Roberts ultimately lost the set 6-4, but proved that he can take on and definitely beat top 10 ITF players.

As for Carey, he took on Juan Jose Rosas of Peru. Carey cruised through the first set, taking it 6-4. In the second with his Peruvian supporters, Rosas was able to rally back and take the second set 6-2. Carey lost the third 6-3. Carey also proved that he has the capability to compete and beat top players.

Roberts and Carey competed well against the top-seeded doubles team from Russia. The Bahamian duo once again proved that once given the proper exposure to the top levels of tennis they are a force to be feared. Roberts and Carey lost 6-1, 6-3.

Roberts teamed up with Mexico’s Renatta, losing in straight sets in the first round.

Carey paired up with Simona Heinova of Czech Republic. The team, playing together for the first time, advanced as far as the quarter-final round.

The Youth Olympic Village (YOV) was like an international fair with over 4,000 athletes, coaches and volunteers. The YOV provided a countless number of activities, games and educational booths for the athletes to take advantage of when not in competition.

The Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association congratulates the team on their participation at this year’s Youth Olympic Games.