Barrhead’s shiny new tennis courts will soon be seeing some first-class action as players get ready to hit the court, local resident Lawrence Boucher being one of them.
Boucher first picked up a tennis racket and found interest in the game 35 years ago as something to do with his teenage children. He says his kids are now married with children of their own, but a friendly game or two of tennis never fails to arise when the family gets together.
And at 57, Boucher has still got it.
“They’re still trying to beat the old man,” he laughed. “But they can’t.”
The exercise, from running and ball control, is what Boucher likes best about the game. Not to mention heading out on the court allows him to spend quality time in the fresh air.
However other than his children and grandchildren, Boucher said he hasn’t had much luck finding someone to play tennis with since moving to Barrhead 25 years ago.
When he was told Barrhead resident Ed Robinson was looking for someone to play with in the Summer Games, Boucher decided to find out for himself.
“I heard through word of mouth that he was looking for a partner for the Games and he lived in Barrhead,” said Boucher. “So I called him up and we got together.”
The two have been practicing about once a week this past month, in between the rain that is. Playing doubles is something Boucher said he finds to be challenging, as he has never played with a partner prior to this.
“Now you’ve got to work as a team,” said Boucher. “Teamwork is important in a doubles game. That’s going to be a challenge.”
Competing in the Summer Games will be the first competition Boucher has participated in, and he said he feels prepared. What is he most looking forward to? Claiming a victory with his partner wouldn’t be so bad.
“Winning a gold would be good,” laughed Boucher. “It’s going to be fun.”
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