St. Jude’s Charity Pro/Am Doubles – 2009

Tip #1: ENTER EARLY! The event is expected to completely sell out this year. At 760 players we cap the draw and and start turning people away. Don’t get shut out. Enter today on-line at www.usopenracquetball.com

Tip #2: ORDER TICKETS NOW! You must have a ticket to view any of the pro matches, and although the Stadium Court seats over 1,000 the event is always a sell-out from the quarters on. No-shows can free up some session tickets “at the door” but it’s risky to wait. By far, the best deal is to purchase the ticket package ($99) for unlimited viewing for all pro matches for the entire week -- this guarantees you a seat – but ticket packages are sold only in advance! If you like to watch the pro’s from the backwall purchase a Preferred Ticket Package for a guaranteed back wall seat!

Tip #3: ENTER TWO OR THREE EVENTS. Court time restrictions (and the large draw) do not allow us to offer consolation divisions, so we strongly recommend that you enter two divisions so that you are guaranteed at least two matches. Although players are limited to just two divisions there are a couple of exceptions. First, if you would like to play “up” into the Men’s or Women’s Pro draw (perhaps just for the experience?) you can still play in two amateur divisions, for a total of three events. Second, if at least one of your divisions are doubles, you can play in any third event you choose. For these two exceptions only, a third event is permitted.

Tip #4: STAY AT THE HOST HOTELS. Check the entry form for the official list of host hotels. By staying at the main host hotel (Hilton) you’ll have the convenience of the complimentary shuttle, running every half hour from the hotel to The Racquet Club and back) and receive special room rates. These hotels will fill up VERY fast so call to book your room immediately. For a complete list of hotels in the area offering special U.S. OPEN room blocks and rates visit www.usopenracuqetball.com and click on “Hotels”.

Tip #5: BRING NICE CLOTHES AND YOUR DANCING SHOES! One of the really fun parts of attending the U.S. OPEN is experiencing the many evening social activities offered, especially the Grand Gala – The Party with the Pro’s. Racquetball or casual attire is not allowed at this bash so “dress to impress” will be the rule!

Tip #6: LAST FLIGHT OUT ON SUNDAY. Make sure you book the very latest flight you can get home on Sunday. The Men’s Pro final is the last match of the tournament and you won’t want to miss it. A packed house, booming music, laser light show introductions and the television camera’s make this an experience like no other in the sport. The match usually ends around 2:30 pm so any evening flight will do. Can’t get a late flight out? Consider going home Monday morning. It will be worth it!

Keep these tips in mind when making plans to attend the 2009 U.S. OPEN and you will have the inside track. Lastly, if you really want to experience everything the event has to offer and you have a few bucks laying around earmarked for “gifts for myself” here are a couple ideas to treat yourself to the ultimate VIP weekend.

PRO-AM DOUBLES FOR ST. JUDE: On the Tuesday night before the U.S. OPEN begins, a special fundraiser is held for the event’s designated charity, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Have you ever dreamed of playing doubles with one of the best pro players in the world as YOUR partner? Well, here’s your chance. For a $325 donation to St. Jude you’ll be one of 32 lucky amateurs to be paired up with top ranked men and women pros to compete in a single elimination draw. The evening will be fully catered and each amateur player will receive an autographed racquet from their pro partner. This popular event has sold out each of the last 12 years, so call (800) 234-5396 ext. 129 to request a Pro-Am Doubles Entry. The first 32 paid entrants will get the spots.

GOLD LUXURY BOX SEATING. If you really want to go first class, consider purchasing a four-person, courtside GOLD Luxury Box. Most are already reserved for event sponsors, but a very limited number are available for individual purchase. The cost is $2,800 for the week and includes 4 GOLD All-Access credentials, a four-person stadium courtside Luxury Box with your name it (table service included), and unlimited access throughout the week to the fully catered PRO/GOLD lounge (only top 16 ranked pro’s, event sponsors, and VIP’s allowed). If you are interested,
please call (614) 890-6073 to check Luxury Box availability for the 2009 U.S. OPEN.