Hit for Haiti

The Hit for Haiti (mixed-)doubles (heck and sometimes triples!) match at Rod Laver Arena today at 2 pm was the brainchild of tennis legend Roger Federer, and I can wholeheartedly say it was an absolutely awesome experience. I mean really, it isn’t every day you’re treated to such a talented exhibition of players, especially on one court at one time!



The array of tennis royalty included:

• Roger Federer (of course);
• Rafael Nadal;
• Serena Williams;
• Sam Stosur;
• Lleyton Hewitt;
• Novak Djokovic;
• Kim Clijsters;
• Andy Roddick; and
• Bernard Tomic.

At an unbelievably inexpensive $10 per ticket, we were treated to the antics of Novak Djokovic in particular who had me and almost everyone else in stitches. Jim Courier, notable ranga, relished the seat of power as the chair umpire, but let the players run the show for the most part.



Rafa’s shoe tieing show was probably the hottest shot on court, but Roger’s usual cheeky charm kept everyone smiling too. It was also great to see Serena, Sam and Kim mixing it up with the boys. I love mixed doubles as it can only help improve the game as a whole. Plus, who wouldn’t like to get a chance to see if they could take on the male hot shots of the game? Go Serena!

OK, I must share one more pictures as this may well be the first time I've ever seen a triples match on any official court. I like!



On a more serious note, I am so proud of the Aussies (and honorary Aussies: me for one) who turned up in droves—about 15,000 people I believe—to support the people of Haiti during their time of need. I believe approximately $200,000 was raised on the day and for having a day’s notice, I reckon that’s pretty ace!

Donations can apparently be made at any ANZ branch and also via Partners in Health online at www.pih.org. Please give generously!

Until next time, warm regards from
Renée Barber
Your roving Melbourne correspondent

PS I wish I had captured a video of the great Mexican waves that swept through the entire stadium several times. Maybe next time!