Abierto de Tenis Los Cabos is
not just for the players. Or for the fans.
It's also for Cabo's children. Many
of whom would never get a chance at a sport like tennis if there wasn’t some
good will built into the fabric of this tournament. And this good will came from the sponsors, the players,
and some local kids charities.
Three of Cabo’s child-related
charities (CRIT, DIF, Los Cabos Children Foundation) got together a whole bunch
of kids, including some with disabilities, and brought them along to ATP Los
Cabos on Wednesday morning.
On arrival, the kids got a welcome
kit including cool t-shirts, caps, glasses and rackets. For the warm-up session
they got to run around and dance with the players. Before heading to the centre
court to hit some serious balls..
Manuel and Treat were absolutely
great with the kids – doing tennis, autographs and photos. Geoffrey Fernandez,
tournament Director, and a couple of other players, also took part.
Both the kids and the players had
a blast - it was a real opportunity for
both.
“These kind of events are truly
motivating for the kids. I am really happy to be part of this and share my time
with them. I remember myself as a kid having a big dream, looking up to the
professional tennis players. I think that I can be helpful for them, they can
follow a role model from their own country”, said Manuel Sanchez, a top Mexican
player.
“I was really touched by the
kids with disabilities, despite their restrictions they were motivated and very
happy. I made them smile, and for me that’s the least I could do”.
Big sporting events like these don’t
just benefit Cabo’s tourist industry. They can really help Cabo’s kids
too.
If you are lucky enough to be in town for the ATP, of for any other reason,
why not go help out, meet some of these kids, or even give a small donation. Check
with your hotel or resort - some have things set up. Like Cabo Villas and
Hacienda del Mar - both are involved in the "dollar a day program".
Check out these great pics of the kids...