![]() ![]() Mahiyan (John Savage) was a former circuit player. In 1981, however, Sri Chinmoy’s game received new impetus when he discovered a worthy rival in the person of one of his Californian disciples. Very few were able to take any points from him. Each one would play two games with him and then another player would take over. Mostly, his partners were local disciples. Only then would he commence serious play. And yet, it began as a humble tennis court.ĭuring the warmer months, Sri Chinmoy developed a routine whereby he would arrive at the court between 7:15 and 7:30 a.m., often after an early morning run, perform a set of ten or twelve weightlifting exercises, and then work through a range of practice shots on the court. ![]() One becomes filled with the holiness and sanctity of the place. Within its precincts, conversation is at a minimum. It is used by Sri Chinmoy and his disciples for meditations, singing, dramatic performances and many other spiritual activities. Over the years, this modest tennis court has become a place of pilgrimage for seekers. In time, wisteria has grown to cover most of the fence. The narrow perimeter on this side is clearly evident. Sri Chinmoy returning a shot from Ashrita to his forehand side. The photo clearly shows the proximity to the players of the stone wall. The court was finished on June 9th, 1981 – just in time for Sri Chinmoy’s fourth tennis anniversary. The far end had its own set of unusual obstacles – a set of steps, a low wall and a gate which seemed to be in constant use. On the other side was a wire fence with windproof netting. To one side was a high, solid wall that supported bleachers for spectator seating. At his home end, a small blue hut was built where he could rest between sets. Sri Chinmoy’s court had less than half these perimeters. A doubles court is normally 36’ x 78’ with a 12’ perimeter on each side and a 21’ perimeter behind the two baselines to create extra playing area. He was able to purchase a narrow and oddly shaped plot of unused land in the neighbourhood and his students constructed a clay court on the site. If one were to graph Sri Chinmoy’s progress in tennis during this time, it would show a steady escalation, which was particularly intensified during the warmer months from April to September.Īs conditions at the Jamaica High School handball area deteriorated, Sri Chinmoy expressed a wish to have a permanent tennis court of his own. ![]() Three years have elapsed since the first part of this article appeared. ![]()
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