NCAA Champ Blog – I'm In The Bronx!

Yesterday I went to the to the tournament site at the Bronx Challenger in New York City to sign up just in case the qualies draw opens up. It was a slim chance, but hey – I’m here already. I practiced for two hours- I felt good on these courts, not too fast but the balls bounce pretty high here so heavy topspin balls would be very effective. It was nice to be playing again!
That night I called Anne to check what time she played and what time she wanted to warm up. She told me, “Riza, you know you got into the qualies?!” I was like, “oh my gosh!!! I didn’t even think that was possible!” Apparently, one of the wildcards got in on her own ranking, and I was the next one in-line for it!  Finally, my chance to play! regardless if I win or lose, getting to compete that is all i want right now
I had to figure a way to get up to the Bronx this morning without getting lost or getting delayed. I could have taken the metro, but I took a taxi instead just to make sure. That was $20, but it was worth it. I’m staying with a friend in upper east side, and there are no direct lines from here. Coming back it was so stressful!  I took the metro from the Bronx, transferred 2 lines, then another one coming down. Besides trudging through the streets with my tennis bag on my back, the walking was so tiring. Now wonder the average New Yorker is in shape!