020126 GrandHarborTennis JoshuaKodis 03 — PHOTO BY JOSHUA KODIS

Grand Harbor Golf and Beach Club residents served up the Vero Beach International Tennis Open in perfect form. Despite the chill in the air, its members exuded warmth and excitement throughout the week-long world-class tournament.

Undeterred by the blustery weather, tennis fans also bundled up for a cadre of tennis-related events to round out the week. Ancillary pursuits included a curated art show with works from 30 local artists, a fashion show featuring clothing from local boutiques, a Pro-Am where local players could up their game with top tennis pros, a kids’ day giving the younger set an opportunity to learn and play, a luxury vehicle showcase, and a member and sponsor closing gala.

What initially began as a budding professional tournament has grown over the past several years.

The event is now one of only 10 tournaments in the United States at this level, with more than 30 current and past VBITO players having competed in the U.S. Open.

This year, the tournament welcomed women’s tennis professionals from 37 different countries competing for a share of a $75,000 prize purse and WTA ranking points and to secure their spots in upcoming Grand Slam qualifiers.

The opening ceremonies included the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard, who presented the colors and a stirring rendition of the National Anthem performed by Vero’s own Lou Wilkins.

“The Vero Beach International Tennis Open has become one of the most anticipated weeks of the year,” said Marco Osorio, Grand Harbor director of sports and the tournament’s director, also commenting on the enormous effort required to transform Grand Harbor’s clay courts into an international stage.

Vero Beach Mayor John Cotugno encouraged the visiting players and spectators to look beyond the baseline and explore the city’s cultural riches.

“Enjoy the tournament and the excellent quality tennis, but also enjoy our community,” Cotugno said. “We have a great museum, a great theater, and, of course, the beaches are great, even if they are a little cold today.”

Before the final matches on Sunday, a ceremony was held to formally name the stadium court the Ivan Lendl Stadium Court. The tribute honors the longtime Vero Beach resident, an eight-time Grand Slam champion and Hall of Famer.

Lendl was recognized for his contributions to the sport, his connection to the Grand Harbor club, and his support of the growth of tennis in Indian River County.

Osorio noted that Lendl’s “never-give-up” attitude is an inspiration to the players competing in this tournament and beyond.

For more information, visit vbito.com.