WTA adds an event in Colombia

MUMBAI: Following the successful staging of two WTA $125 tournaments in Taipei (China) and Pune (India) recently, The Women?s Tennis Association (WTA) has announced the expansion of the WTA $125 series into South America next year with the addition of Cali, Colombia, to the 2013 calendar.

The clay court event, known as the Bionaire Cup, will be staged in the week of 11 February 2013, leading into the WTA?s international level tournament in Bogot?, Colombia. The WTA $125 event will offer a total prize money purse of $125,000, spread across a 32-player singles main draw, 16-player qualifying draw, and 16-team doubles draw, with the singles champion receiving 160 ranking points.

WTA MD Peter Johnston said, "We are thrilled with the development of ourWTA $125 series and excited for Cali, Colombia, to join the WTA family. With three new events in South America scheduled for 2013, the growth of the sport in the continent continues to be a priority for the WTA."

Jarden Consumer Solutions VP, GM Andean Region Felipe Gomez said, "Our company, Oster de Colombia, a subsidiary of Jarden Corporation, celebrates this opportunity to present to the tennis community the Bionaire Cup, under the auspices of the WTA and with a prize money level of $125,000. We are proud to have this event opening the WTA clay tennis season in Latin America. The Bionaire Cup will motivate the development of upcoming talent in the region, as well as welcome players from around the world in a festive atmosphere.We look forward to working closely with the WTA and Iflex Sports Marketing Co., aswe collectively focus our efforts to secure the event?s success."

The WTA plans to further grow this series in 2013, providing a additional playing opportunities for its athletes and showcasing women?s tennis in emerging markets.