CHAMPIONSHIP CHAMPAGNE BRUNCH WITH FORMER WIMBLEDON CHAMPIONS AND PATRON MARION BARTOLI

There is something truly magical about Wimbledon fortnight. The anticipation, the traditions, the unmistakable atmosphere, and the celebration of world-class tennis create the perfect backdrop for the Elena Baltacha Foundation's annual Championship Champagne Brunch. This year's event was no exception, bringing together supporters, partners, trustees, and friends for a memorable morning at the beautiful Ivy Wimbledon, where Elena's legacy was celebrated with warmth, generosity, and a shared commitment to creating brighter futures for young people.

The Foundation was especially proud that this year's event was generously sponsored by GLI, the Global Liver Institute, a valued partner whose support continues to make a significant difference in our work. Over the past year, our relationship has grown through a shared ambition to improve awareness and understanding of liver health among young people. Together, we are delivering important educational messages through our network of senior schools, helping students gain greater knowledge of healthy lifestyles and lifelong well-being. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone at the Global Liver Institute for their continued partnership, generosity, and belief in the Foundation's mission. Their ongoing support allows us to continue developing meaningful programmes that make a lasting impact on young lives.

Our special guest and Foundation Patron, Marion Bartoli, brought genuine star quality to the occasion. One of the most accomplished players of her generation, Marion reached the Wimbledon Ladies' Singles Final in 2007 before achieving the pinnacle of her career by lifting the famous Venus Rosewater Dish as Wimbledon Champion in 2013. Her remarkable determination, resilience, and passion for the game have earned her admiration throughout the tennis world and continue to inspire players of every age.

While Marion's achievements on court are extraordinary, it was her heartfelt tribute to Elena that left the greatest impression on everyone in the room. Speaking with warmth and sincerity, Marion reflected on their friendship during their years on the WTA Tour, sharing touching memories of Elena's kindness, courage, and infectious positivity. 

There was a genuine sense of emotion throughout the room as guests listened to stories that perfectly captured the remarkable person Elena was, both on and off the court. Following her speech, Marion spent considerable time chatting with guests, posing for photographs and making everyone feel welcome. Her generosity and genuine interest in speaking with every supporter created memories that will last long after this year's championships have finished.

The setting for the brunch could not have been more fitting. Nestled in the heart of Wimbledon Village, The Ivy Wimbledon once again provided a spectacular venue for this special occasion. Combining classic elegance with contemporary style, its beautifully designed interiors, luxurious furnishings, fresh floral displays, and exceptional hospitality created an atmosphere that reflected both the prestige of Wimbledon and the warmth of the Foundation's family. Guests enjoyed a relaxed champagne reception before a superb brunch, all within one of the area's most iconic dining destinations.

Adding to the excitement was our ever-popular Golden Ticket prize draw. One fortunate guest walked away with a luxurious champagne basket together with an exclusive one-to-one tennis coaching session generously donated by Marion Bartoli herself. The prize perfectly reflected the unique experiences that only the Elena Baltacha Foundation can offer, and the anticipation as the winning ticket was announced brought smiles and applause from everyone in attendance.

The event was also supported by several of the Foundation's dedicated trustees, whose continued commitment ensures that Elena's vision remains at the heart of everything we do. We were delighted to welcome Chairman Nino Severino, together with Duncan Foster, Jonathan Ferrar, and Penny Moor, who spent the morning meeting guests and sharing the Foundation's ambitions for the future. Their guidance, leadership, and unwavering belief in the Foundation's purpose continue to strengthen our work and ensure that every fundraising event contributes directly to creating opportunities for young people.

Behind every successful event is an individual whose dedication often goes unseen, and this year that recognition belongs wholeheartedly to Hayden Taylor. Hayden's commitment, professionalism, and attention to detail were instrumental in making the Championship Champagne Brunch such an outstanding success. From carefully coordinating arrangements with the venue to overseeing every aspect of the day's delivery, his calm approach and meticulous organisation ensured that everything ran seamlessly. His willingness to go above and beyond, often behind the scenes, allowed guests simply to relax and enjoy a truly memorable occasion. The Foundation is enormously grateful for his exceptional commitment and support.

We would also like to express our sincere thanks to every guest who purchased a ticket and joined us for this wonderful celebration. Your generosity, enthusiasm, and belief in Elena's legacy continue to inspire us. Every conversation shared, every raffle ticket purchased, and every contribution made throughout the morning helps ensure that the Foundation can continue delivering meaningful opportunities for young people across our communities. Events such as these simply would not be possible without your loyal support.

At the heart of every fundraising event lies the work that it makes possible. The Elena Baltacha Foundation continues to transform lives through its two flagship programmes. Our Free Tennis in Schools initiative introduces thousands of children to tennis each year, breaking down barriers to participation while promoting confidence, inclusion, and healthy lifestyles.

Alongside this, our Sport Skills 4 Business (SS4B) programme equips young people with essential employability, communication, and leadership skills, using sport as a powerful vehicle for personal growth and future success. Every pound raised through events such as the Championship Champagne Brunch enables these programmes to reach more schools, support more young people, and continue building on Elena Baltacha's inspiring legacy. It is through the collective generosity of our sponsors, partners, volunteers, and supporters that this important work continues to flourish, ensuring Elena's vision of empowering young people through sport remains stronger than ever.

As another memorable Championship Champagne Brunch draws to a close, we are reminded that Elena's legacy extends far beyond the tennis court. It lives on through every child inspired to pick up a racket, every young person encouraged to believe in their potential, and every supporter who continues to stand alongside the Foundation. Together, we are ensuring that Elena's passion, determination, and generosity continue to change lives for generations to come.