The fourth edition of the WA Blind and Low Vision Open was held at Kingsway Sports Complex in Madeley last weekend of the 18th and 19th October.
The WA Blind and Low Vision Open comprises of various categories of competition, with play that is modified with an audible yellow or black ball. Depending on the classification (see below), play is either with one, two or three bounces of the ball.
A total of 10 entrants from WA and interstate competed in the six events.
There are four classification/categories of Blind and Low Vision Tennis:
| Classification | Eligibility Criteria | Tennis Australia Events |
| B1 | Visual acuity poorer than LogMAR 2.60 |
|
| B2 | Visual acuity ranging from LogMAR 1.50 to 2.60 (inclusive) | |
| B3 | Visual acuity ranging from LogMAR 1.0 to 1.40 (inclusive OR visual fields less than 10 degrees diameter and visual acuity better than 0.5 (B4) | |
| B4 | Visual acuity ranging from LogMAR 0.5 to 0.9 (inclusive) OR visual fields less than 40 degrees diameter and visual acuity better than 0.5 |
There was also “B2-4” event played, which allowed players from different categories to compete against each other.
Tennis West Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Lead Sara Mohamed was impressed with the incredible level of tennis throughout the event.
“The tournament had a warm, welcoming atmosphere that made it truly special. A heartfelt thank you to all the players, supporters, volunteers, and staff who made this event unforgettable,” said Sara.
See all the winners and finalists:
B2 – B4 Men’s Singles
1, Sean Russo
2, David Gordon
3, Chuan-Lim Teh
B2 – B4 Women’s Singles
1, Patricia Songoro
2, Kayden Larney
3, Isabella Allen
B1 Open Singles
1, Tess Whelan
2, Isabella Allen
3, Arthur Pirika
4, Julyanne Campbell
Premier Open Singles
1, Sean Russo [1]
2, David Gordon [2]
3/4, Chuan-Lim Teh
3/4, Kayden Larney
B1 Open Doubles
1, Tess Whelan
Isabella Allen
2, Kayden Larney
Julyanne Campbell
3, Arthur Pirika
Michelle Hulin
B2 – B4 Open Doubles
1, Sean Russo
Kayden Larney
2, Chuan-Lim Teh
Patricia Songoro
3, David Gordon
Isabella Allen
Sportsmanship Award
Michelle Hulin