OUR STORY
1989
It was November 1989, amidst a disappointing Longhorn Football Season an annual congregation of college comrades gathered at the home of Perry and Patsy Wingfield in the heart of New Braunfels, Texas. With an evening of Wurstfest merriment on the horizon and a pristine tennis court at their disposal, an impromptu doubles tennis tournament materialized. Among the inaugural participants were Perry and Patsy, Warren and Tricia, Armando and Hannah, Richard and Cindy, and Brien. In spirit of balanced competition, pairings united the more seasoned racquet-wielders with the less adept enthusiasts. It was on that memorable Saturday that the first “tennis tournament” was born. Brien and Tricia emerged as the victors, etching their names into what would become the coveted title of the tennis tournament.
1990
The following year, budgets allowed for a promoter and Richard Wingfield did a masterful job of recruiting several players from the Houston region. The tournament expanded to sixteen players, well on it’s way to social and financial success. For several years the tournament continued to be held the fall weekend coinciding with Wurstfest, ultimately christening the event as the Wurstfest Invitational.
1993
Our fifth year celebration brought about many surprises. More players began to start families (two births in 1993), player disappointment with professional seedings, food menu options, the change in tournament format, all combined with the first (and only) tournament that was played in freezing, blustery conditions. The term "asterisk man" was coined when a finalist had to withdraw due to injury and another player was substituted in and won! (Patsy withdrew and Richard became the big asterisk!)
1995
Looking for a more consistent date to fit the players demanding schedules, the tournament was moved to Labor Day Weekend. This was a great move for the tournament organizers as players could plan their schedules around a fixed date.
1998
Ringing in our TENTH YEAR brought about the grand opening of the Perry and Patsy Pool and Pool Haus. A much loved gift by old and young alike.
TODAY
Many events have transpired these past 35 years of play. Players have come and gone and returned again, others suspended, banned, a fortunate few reinstated. We've mourned death and divorce, celebrated graduations, engagements, marriages and births. More than 25 children have been brought up the tournament family, plenty more welcomed in as friends and guests. We've ventured through freezing and sweltering temperatures, enjoyed raspas, great Grill Masters, air misters, awesome margaritas, signature Texas Sheet Cake, and navigated a pandemic. We've played great tennis and witnessed “real tennis” too. As we anxiously anticipate celebrating our 36th Annual Tournament, knowing that whatever form it takes this year, we will also take time to revel in the knowledge that this event is about so much more than weekend of tennis. It is about making a place in our lives where we all can come together year after year to create a bond of friendship that is now spanning FOUR GENERATIONS. Thank you to everyone who has participated, young, newbies or veterans, players or peanut gallery, chefs or kitchen staff, early risers or late sleepers, maniac or mellow, real tennis or not! We have created something unique and wonderful. We have made lifelong friendships playing “real tennis” with real good friends! You have each made this such a wonderful FAMILY tradition.
We look forward to seeing you all this year!
Many many more to come!