It is with great regret that Tennis Canada announced on Thursday the cancellation of the Granby National Bank Challenger, scheduled from July 18 to 26, and the National Bank Canadian Open Junior Championships in Repentigny, which were set to take place from August 30 to September 5, due to the exceptional situation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and following the measures imposed by the Government of Quebec prohibiting the holding of sporting events until August 31, 2020.
“Our first thoughts go out to the organizing committees of these two tournaments who work tirelessly year after year to offer a high quality event to both players and fans. It is a sad day for all of them as well as for their partners, their volunteers and tennis fans across the province of Quebec. However, we know that they are already thinking about how to make their 2021 events a success by continuing to collaborate with their valued partners,” stated Eugène Lapierre, Senior Vice-President, Quebec, at Tennis Canada. “These two tournaments have proudly represented the cities of Granby and Repentigny for several years thanks to the reputation they have managed to build and they will continue to do so in the near future.”
The Granby National Bank Challenger and the National Bank Canadian Open Junior Championships in Repentigny were both set to celebrate important anniversaries in 2020. In fact, Granby was preparing for their 25th edition while Repentigny was getting set to host the 35th edition of their tournament.
“We understand the security measures that the government must put in place to ensure the health and safety of everyone, especially since we are in a region of Quebec that has been particularly affected,” stated Alain Faucher, President of the organizing committee of the Granby National Bank Challenger. “That being said, the fact remains that a cancellation of our tournament has significant repercussions for our organization. In the coming weeks, we will focus our efforts on taking steps to obtain financial aid that would help us cover our recurring expenses to limit the damage. During these difficult times, we would like to thank our loyal clients, our valued partners and all of our devoted volunteers who continue to offer their support.”
“Like everyone, we are receiving this news as the preparations for the tournament are already underway,” said Benoît Delisle, President of the National Bank Canadian Open Junior Championships in Repentigny. “The entire team will work tirelessly in order to come back with an even more festive event for our 35th anniversary in 2021. Until then, I wish good health to all of our volunteers and partners.”
(Feature photo: Sarah-Jäde Champagne)
