80-year-old Connie nets a game for her birthday

Oct 9 2009 by Stuart Wilson

Connie Thurlow

MOST 80-year-olds like to enjoy the slower pace of life.

But one pensioner is trying to give Andy Murray a run for his money on the tennis court.

Connie Thurlow is no ordinary granny.

The Cumnock veteran laughs in the face of slippers and a mug of cocoa.

Instead she’s putting her pals to the sword during twice weekly court contests.

And there’s no sign of her long and distinguished sporting career coming to an end.

Connie revealed: “As long as my legs keep going, I’ll be playing tennis.

“I started when I was 13 and the only time I had a break was for five years to have my children.

“I love the game and when I play – I play to win. Me and my friends don’t just knock the ball around for fun.”

The star of Ayr Carrick Club has even graced the hallowed turf at Wimbledon.

And now she’s the icon in more humble surroundings, with fellow players lining up to salute their ageing opponent.

Pal Ruth Thompson confessed: “If we can be anything like Connie then we’re doing something right.

“It’s fantastic to see her still playing and she’s a great person to be around.

“She’s known as Cunning Connie from Cumnock because of her style on the court and we all look up to her a great deal.”

Connie, originally from Middlesex, has quickly made a name for herself on Ayrshire’s tennis circuit since moving north.

She even celebrated her 80th birthday in the only way she knows how – by getting out the racket and set of balls.

Now she’s ready to spend her ninth decade firing down fizzing serves and top spin volleys.

Connie laughed: “I’m competitive and this is far better at keeping me fit than something like dancing – that just gets me dizzy.”

Connie’s club Ayr Carrick are accepting new members – call Helen on 285626.