Chuck & Nancy

Martina Navratilova came to our area to introduce her new book “Shape Your Self”. I bought 2 copies so I can donate one to our local library silent auction. Luckily I was near the front of the line for the signatures - the middle school auditorium was quite full. There were over 100 people behind me in line!

Martina’s book reads much like her speech .. peppered with a little dry humor. I can almost hear her accent as I read the pages. She’s such an impressive athlete and person. For those of you who are not familiar with her accomplishments - she won 18 Grand Slam Singles championships. She won 9 Wimbledons, 4 US Opens, 3 Australian Opens and 2 French Opens. She had a long rivalry with American tennis sweetheart Chris Everet.

Martina was often a controversial sports figures. She was outspoken and independent. She was a very emotional player who wore her emotions on her sleeve. The news media was not always kind and it often misunderstood and hurt her. But with time the media and the public has come to appreciate the dedication and perserverence of this great athlete.

For those of us who play tennis we can only be in awe of her speed, touch and hand eye coordination. Martina retired from the tennis world for about 5 years and returned to the game as a world class doubles player. She still commands center court and a full stadium at the US Open. She is truly an inspiration.

Her book is not about tennis or her history - it’s a practical guide to eating and exercising - beginning life style changes in a small but persistent way. Good advice for all of us I’m sure.