The Tennis Classic: 2001 Review

2001 marked the launch of the new Tennis Classic, sponsored by Intelligent Finance. It was farewell then to the 'Big Red Telephone' of Direct Line, which had become such a feature of the event - but a warm welcome for a new format, designed to add a twist to this hugely popular show.

By 1pm on Sunday the 16th of December, the foyer of The NIA, Birmingham was jammed with fans eager to see the new show and the excitement was building. Many have been coming to The NIA for years, regular visitors to the Pro-Celebrity, and may have been concerned by the change to the event - but they needn't have worried. All the essential elements were still there, plus a few surprises.

The most obvious change was the tennis. The new format involved two teams of professional and celebrity tennis players, one captained by Cliff and the other by showbiz chum Alistair McGowan.The teams consisted of some impressive world-class tennis talent.

The Tennis Classic

In Association with
Intelligent Finance

We had the wonderful French player, Henri Leconte as well as the man with the tricks up his sleeve, the irrepressible Mansour Bahrami. We were also delighted to be joined again by former Wimbledon finalist, now Romanian politician, Ilie 'Nasty' Nastase.

Former British Number One, John Lloyd unfortunately couldn't make the event so former Wimbledon Champion, Pat Cash stepped in at the last minute to provide some truly exciting tennis action. Also appearing were Kathy Rinaldi and Zina Garrison Jackson, two of the finest American women players in recent history who between them served up some pretty spicy tennis!

Cliff and Alistair McGowan
"Sorry Cliff, they're all for me!"

As you might expect, in the midst of the exciting tennis action there was plenty of entertainment. The chemistry and friendship between the players, celebrity and professional, was clear to see and it was obvious that the teams were enjoying themselves just as much as the audience watching.

Zina Garrison

Tired but Happy

Comedian Jimmy Cricket displayed his juggling skills and true to form, Mansour Bahrami amused the crowds with his spectacular and acrobatic trick shots.

The seven quick-fire tennis matches were against the clock and were interspersed with the usual mix of entertainment slots, lucky brochure and raffle draws, and of course, plenty of music. The afternoon was co-presented by Gloria Hunniford and Mike Read, both long standing Patrons and friends of the Tennis Foundation and true to tradition, Mike led the 10,000 strong crowd in a raucous rendition of The Twelve Days of Christmas.

The Brochure Draw

Russia

We were also treated to a selection of Russian Christmas carols from the group Russia, five young and talented females who were making their UK debut in Birmingham that night.

As always the evening wouldn't have been be complete without the comic entertainment and this year saw performances from the inimitable Jimmy Cricket and comedian Alistair McGowan who had the whole arena roaring at his big impressions.

True to form Captain Cliff and his team won the tennis tournament yet again. Maybe next year we'll find someone who can beat him! With the tournament in the bag it was time to face the music and Cliff took to the stage for his special Christmas show, delighting the audience with performances of some of his favourite hits. For many fans, Cliff's performance at The NIA, Birmingham each year marks the start of Christmas and the crowd sung their hearts out, clearly enjoying every minute of the show.

Cliff takes to the stage for his special Christmas show

For many fans Cliff's performance at The NIA each year marks the start of Christmas

By now the whole arena was in full Christmas swing and it was soon time for the carols, accompanied by the Salvation Army Band a firm tradition of The NIA event and one that we wouldn't dare change.

As the evening drew to a close, the musical extravaganza was finished off with The Band of HM Royal Marines Portsmouth, who marched into the arena to lead the ceremony of Beating Retreat. It was a magnificent ending to the event and the appreciation from the audience was clear to see. Unfortunately we were soon out of time and Cliff bade everyone a fond farewell and a happy and peaceful Christmas.

HM Royal Marines Portsmouth perform Beating Retreat

All of the feedback that we have received from fans has been very positive. A great deal of work goes into putting on such a large and varied event, so it was therefore very satisfying for us to see everyone thoroughly enjoying themselves. We do welcome any comments or suggestions that you may have so please feel free to email us at .

Crazy as it sounds, work will soon start on the preparations for the Tennis Classic 2002 and if you didn't manage to get tickets this time - put a date in your diary. The Tennis Classic 2002 will take place on Saturday the 14th of December, from 4.30 - 8.30pm. Tickets will go on sale on Friday the 7th of June, through The NIA Box Office - telephone no. 0870 909 4144.

We look forward to seeing you there!