FAQs

What type of experience should I expect at these events?

Lots of tennis under the lights! These events bring our community together around a committed history of free public access to tennis in Richmond and to build a community of greatness that has strong bonds, empowers youth, and encourages health and fitness through tennis. These events are fun and active, and an opportunity to celebrate, as a community, Arthur Ashe Jr.’s ability to use his success in tennis as a platform for the advancement of civil and human rights.

Are these events free to the public?

Yes! It is free to participate in the pre-competition clinics and to play in each event’s tennis competition. We thank our generous sponsors and the City of Richmond Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities for helping make this a free event. Proceeds from sponsor donations will benefit junior and adult tennis development in Richmond through the non-profit organizations of The Richmond Tennis Association and Metro Richmond Tennis Club.

Do I need to sign up for the events before arriving?

Yes, you need to register before attending the event if you are planning to play in the tennis competition portion of the event. You do not need to register if you plan to simply attend or play in the clinics for adults and youth. You can register for the doubles competition on this website. If you do not have a doubles partner the tennis director will work to pair you up with a partner. If registration fills up for an event the tennis director will work to register you for the following event competition.

What tennis skill level is appropriate for these events?

People of all tennis skill levels should feel welcome to participate and play in the clinics for adults and youth as well as the competition portion of each event. We will have different divisions of the competition so everyone from beginners to the most competitive will have fun.

Are these events for the whole family or just for tennis players?

We encourage everyone to attend. Youth can enjoy the clinic as well as participate in informal games for a limited number of prizes. Youth can also watch the adult-only (ages 19+) doubles competition. In addition to the tennis, we will have information tables on where to play tennis around Richmond, how to sign up for lessons and clinics, and options to purchase food and non-alcoholic beverages.

Are there prizes for winning the doubles competition?

Yes! Winners of each event’s competition will win a recognition medal. Should a doubles team win all three events we will recognize them with an additional recognition medal.

What should I bring to this event?

Bring a tennis racquet, tennis shoes and clothing you feel comfortable playing in. We will have extra tennis racquets on hand if you don’t have one. Appropriate court shoes are required to protect the surface of the tennis courts. Drinking water will be available to all attendees. Food and non-alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase.

How do I support this if I can’t attend any of the three events?

We plan to put on multiple events next summer as well! We also encourage any donations for the development of junior and adult tennis in Richmond through the non-profit organizations of The Richmond Tennis Association and Metro Richmond Tennis Club.

Is there free parking at the events?

Yes, when you arrive to Byrd Park, free public parking will be along S. Arthur Ashe Boulevard as well as two overflow lots just immediately south of the courts across the street and in the Rueger Playground behind the Cary School which is also across from the tennis courts.

What if it rains on the day of the event or during the event?

The rain date for each event is one week after the original event. The rain date for Thursday, June 27, at Byrd Park will be Thursday, July 5. The rain date for Thursday, July 11 for Battery Park will be Thursday, July 18. The rain date for July 25th at Byrd will be August 1 and the rain date for August 8 at Byrd will be August 15. Please check this website for the latest information on whether an event is postponed due to rain.

How do I sponsor this event?

Please contact Davis Harris Jr. if you are interested in sponsoring Tennis Under the Lights at david@liquidincva.com.

What if I have more questions?

Please email tennisunderthelightsrva@gmail.com if you have any additional questions about the event or how to participate.