By Jack Kirkwood
If the majestic Santa Rosa Mountains could speak with us and if the swaying palms could attest to the wisdom of the mountains, each would tell of the excitement as the day approaches for the 35th annual tennis tournament unfolding in the beautiful valley below.
Only those mountains have born witness to 35 years of this continuing story of tennis greatness and the genius that made it all possible. And as the swaying palms and the expanse of green cover that make this valley so unique have grown and matured over the years so has this prestigious event. It boasts today, and rightfully so, as the number 5 tennis tournament with a magnificent center court that stands as the second largest tennis stadium, both impressive rankings in all the world.
 Did it take these 35 years to achieve such a level of excellence? Yes and no.
YES, the management skill and devotion to the great game led by the founders, Charlie Pasarell and partner Raymond Moore, has been the catalyst. And many key staff members have made major contributions while holding to the concept of loyalty and dedicated performance through thick and thin. Today, as a direct result, this renowned tournament enjoys the sponsorship of the World’s number 1 tennis supporter from Paris, the huge and internationally respected French bank, BNP Paribas.
When this world-class sponsor came on board in time for the 2009 tournament the long-term viability of the event was assured even during this period of weakened markets and economies.
There is no better way to attest to the much anticipated success with the 35th annual tournament than to herald its coming from those Santa Rosa mountain tops and from the green and lovely Coachella Valley below. To recognize it as the pride and joy of the City of Indian Wells, its host community, is to compliment its stature among tennis tournaments worldwide and thank all involved for its special place in the order of the day.
And NO, greatness has been building each year with the quality of championship tennis 
played here by the world’s greatest players, both men and women. Their repeated appearances and sensational play during their all too short careers have contributed mightily to this annual success story which could only build through the years on their countless successes on center court.
So, ultimately it is the players who keep tennis at the spectacular Indian Wells Tennis Garden strong and ongoing and it is to those players, past and present, that a fitting “well done” on this 35th anniversary is due and promised. |
