Qualifying play started today here in Winnetka, IL.  I was lucky enough to get a bye through to the second round of qualifying so I only had to play one match today.  It was not an easy one by any means.  I went up against Gregory Andrews (USA) who plays for Notre Dame.  I pulled out a win 7-6(2) 6-7(4) 7-5.  It was a pretty up and down match.  He came up with some pretty big forehands when he needed them.  I didn't serve quite as well as I would have liked to, but it was a good match to get through. I will go up against my doubles partner and roommate for the week Jeff Dadamo (USA) in the second round tomorrow.  We play second after 10:00AM.  There will be live scores on the ATP/WTA app for your iphones as well as online here in case you are interested. 

     In other news tonight was the sponsors/players party.  It was held at one of the local family houses.  It was a really nice setup with some good food and an awesome view of Lake Michigan.  The coolest part was that they had a raft setup in the Lake for a chipping competition and a long drive competition.  I came up pretty clutch in the chipping competition.  I can tell you honestly that I am one of the worst golfers out there, but I hit two chips on a frozen rope to the raft.  Nobody hit the raft, however I was the closest.  So I came away with a title tonight.  I am pretty proud of it.  There was also a prize for the winner, but I will find out what that is tomorrow.  The long drive competition proved to be too much for me.  I hit it hard and straight but unfortunately it just wasn't enough.  You can't win them all.  I was able to snap a shot of Tennys Sandgren (USA) striking a nice long ball (below).  He got robbed out of the title, but he walks away with his head held high.  Just look at the technique as well.  This truly was beauty and the beast. 

     That is all I have for you guys tonight.  It is time for some rest and recovery before tomorrow's battle.  I hope you guys have had a good weekend.  Thanks for tuning in to the blog.  Comments are always welcome.  Be blessed.

All the best,

Devin Britton