Sibling tennistry

Few families can boast about their awesome tennis skills like the Bulmers.

Sister and brother Robyn and Jonathan Bulmer have excelled in sport, and they are following the success of their mother, Tracey.

All three Weltevreden Park residents train at the Boskruin Tennis Club.

Jonathan is currently attending the Northcliff High School, where Robyn matriculated last year.

According to the official Tennis South Africa rankings, Robyn is the 46th best women’s singles player in the country, and 48th in doubles (as of 9 January).

This despite her being only18-years-old.

Jonathan (15) is 36th in the U16 boy’s singles category, and 39th in U16 boy’s doubles.

Despite his age he already plays for his school’s first team.

Tracey (45) previously played for South Africa in the 40–45 age group, is currently ranked 37th in women’s singles and 49th in doubles, and coaches tennis.

Robyn and Jonathan sometimes practise together, but do not compete for who is the better of them.

“Boy’s and girl’s tennis is different,” Robyn says.

“We don’t compare to each other. So there is no added pressure.”

She continued that she likes tennis because it trains you physically and mentally.

“I live for the highs during tournaments when you beat someone ranked higher,” she smiles.

Last year, Robyn helped her school to win two provincial tournaments and the national St Mary’s Festival, and achieved a highest ranking of 35th in the country for women. She intends to study medicine this year, and will not pursue a professional tennis career for now.

Jonathan says that he likes tennis because you can play by yourself, as well as in a team.

Unsurprisingly, both say that the worst part of tennis is losing.

Details: Boskruin Tennis Club 083 703 1434.