On 2nd November, my good friend Aaron Kumar will take on Rob Dodge in a marathon singles match at Virgin Active Clearview in Essex, lasting 12 hours. The money raised from the contest will go to Children of the Mekong a charity which helps Children from South East Asia in improving their level of literacy.
18 months ago Aaron played a 12 hour singles match against former triathlete Daniel Clark and emerged victorious by 14 sets to 4. Rob has never previously competed in a 12 hour singles match but is ready for the challenge.
Aaron has won the pairs last few meetings but the 29 year old believes that will count for nothing on Saturday.
“I have said all along that Rob is one of the most improved players at Clearview, it is always a challenge playing him, so I will have to be at my best, plus a 12 hour match is obviously so different to what we are used to, that it is literally going to come down to what happens on the day.”
The duo will both be determined to win this epic contest but both have said that people’s support is what ultimately will make the event a success, in terms of donating, watching on the day or watching live via the online stream.
Rob sees Aaron as favourite, Aaron believes that all results are possible, the rest of us are simply stunned that two men are going to put themselves through the pain and brutality of a non-stop 12 hour tennis match.
It is safe to say that when these two meet on Court A at Clearview on Saturday we can expect the unexpected.
If you are in the area then please come down and support the guys in person and see this incredible accomplishment first hand and if you can’t make it then you can watch the match live here.
http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfA6I7f4t9NKj94CVGioTlg
I will be involved in streaming the match and commentating on the game as it goes on. Wish us all luck!