DUBAI, 6 February 2005 — The Dubai Tennis Championships Aces Fan Club (AFC), described as the Middle East’s first official sports club, will be up and running again in 2005 and is welcoming enthusiastic supporters looking to join the 2000-strong crew of tennis fanatics.
Created for the first time last year by tournament owners and organizers Dubai Duty Free (DDF), the AFC was a resounding success, which resulted in tennis fans from across the region throwing their support behind the concept.
The club, which officially started on Jan. 23, enables fans to meet the tournament’s top players, gain entry into the exclusive player parties, free entry into matches and also gives members the opportunity to win some excellent prizes through easy-to-enter competitions. Members can also take advantage of sponsor discounts.
“We were absolutely delighted with the success of the Aces Fan Club last year and we are looking forward to welcoming even more fans to the club this year,” said DDF Managing Director Colm McLoughlin, Managing Director of Dubai Duty Free.
“This is a unique way of helping supporters feel a real part of the tournament and, more than ever before, brings fans closer to the excitement surrounding the event.”
Some of the world’s top men and women players, including Roger Federer, Andre Agassi, Justine Henin-Hardenne, the Williams sisters and Lindsay Davenport — have signed up for the two-week event from Feb. 21-March 5.
Adding even further to the appeal of the tournament, DDF has announced that grand Stand tickets for the 2005 Dubai Tennis Championships have been frozen at 2004 levels making it one of the best value-for-money events on the Sony Ericsson WTA and ATP Tours.
Fans can join by registering on-line through the official website www.dubaitennischampionships.com. The printed membership card provides immediate benefits with all members entitled to free entry on the opening Mondays of each tournament on Feb. 21 and Feb. 28.
Members will receive regular updates on the latest tournament news and competitions that offer prizes including entry into the exclusive players parties and signed merchandise.
Tickets have gone on sale, with almost half priced at 30 dirham and are available from the Dubai Tennis Stadium Box Office, Timeout Ticketline (call toll free number 800 4669) or buy online at www.itptickets.com. Finals Grand Stand tickets are priced 100 dirham. For further information call 04 282 9166 or visit www.dubaitennischampionships.com.
