The challenge is on for this year's Observer Challenge

It’s that time of year again. The Observer Challenge takes over the Longboat Key Public Tennis Center courts for the 12th year in a row from Friday, Dec. 9, through Sunday, Dec. 11. Last year, the event, hosted by the tennis center and sponsored by the Longboat Observer, attracted approximately 100 participants.

“It is always one of our most popular events,” says Kay Thayer, manager of the Longboat Key Public Tennis Center.

Longboat Key Public Tennis Center members, members from other clubs and even people from off the island participate. Each team is made up of two women and two men.

“It’s interesting and different from USTA tournaments, and the format is unique to any other tournament on the island … It’s just a fun tournament,” Thayer says.

Participants will play all day Friday, Dec. 9, and in the morning Saturday, Dec. 10, and Sunday, Dec. 11. As of now, the tentative times are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, and 8 a.m. to noon Saturday and Sunday. If it rains, makeup matches will be scheduled.

Cost is $25 per player, and the fee includes a T-shirt and admittance into the cocktail party that takes place from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 8, at the Sarasota Yacht Club. It costs $10 for non-participants to attend Thursday’s kick-off event. Call 316-8367 for information and to register.