Washington Kastles Tennis

TENNIS ON A SMALL SCALE AT WASHINGTON KASTLES STADIUM ON MAINE AVENUE

The Washington Kastles Tennis operation certainly has a pretty setting. The new stadium is on Maine Avenue by the river, looking across the marina toward Haines Point. The views are relaxing and there's actually a breeze ... though sometimes tinged with a hint of fish and fry from the nearby seafood wharf and Phillips restaurant. Not entirely horrible. After all, it is waterside.

A VIEW OF WASHINGTON KASTLES STADIUM FROM HIGH UP. THE WATER IS TO THE RIGHT.

Their big tennis extravaganza kicks off next week, running from July 5-21, featuring some big times like Venus Williams, Serena Williams and John McEnroe mixed in with those who are lesser known but up and coming. There's a schedule and ticket sales here. Catch the terrific John McEnroe-Bjorn Borg documentary running on HBO right now and then go watch Mac himself on July 12 at 7 pm.

A MIX OF COCKTAILS  AND TENNIS AT KASTLES STADIUM

Yesterday evening team owner Mark Ein invited friends to the stadium for Pimm's Cup and canapes. While the big court was roped off, guests were able to play on a mini-court adjacent to the stadium. There were cupcakes from Sprinkles and people dressed like tennis balls. The swag included more Sprinkles cupcakes, the British flag, scones and tea and a key chain.

SUNSET ON THE MAINE AVENUE WATERFRONT

There's a metro stop near the stadium and adequate street parking and Phillips also has a lot.  Make time to walk along the marina. Its not the most beautifully designed waterfront -- a lot of aging, cheap concrete -- but it's what we've got and the setting and tennis make for some fun during the slow days of summer in the city.