Court Tennis

Court Tennis, also known as Real Tennis (and formerly called Royal Tennis in the UK), is an early form of modern tennis and is played in an asymmetrical indoor court suggesting a medieval street but, in reality, is a faithful copy of the original tennis court used by King Henry VIII in Hampton Court in the UK.
 
The rules are arcane and challenging but the action is direct and truly exciting - a great work out. The back wall is used as in squash but the many irregular features of the court make for unpredictable returns.There are only 43 courts in the world and most of the US courts are private clubs, but many permit members of the public to play.
 
Members of Gold's Dragoons are encouraged to try out this sport. We usually plan to hold a tournament in Newport, R.I. as part of our annual trip to the annual Victorian Military Society on the first Friday in February.  Recently, our two players, Garrett Bowden and John Conlin, under the splendid coaching of Nick Howell enjoyed a strenuous two hour workout, followed by a game.  For the future, excellent instruction is available for first timers and all equipment is supplied.

Gold's Dragoons has a historical link with the sport. Jay Gould II was a world champion and Olympic gold medalist. He held the U.S. Amateur Championship title continuously from 1906 to 1925, a record in the sport. The Gold's Dragoons connection is that he was the grandson of the financier, Jay Gould, and was a direct descendant of Nathan Gold who founded the regiment in 1660.
 
Spectators are encouraged, but this can be dangerous for some. Queen Anne Boleyn was watching a game when she was arrested, prior to her trial and losing her head. King Henry scheduled a game for her time of execution - as any caring husband would.  

John Conlin versus the coach in singles (the coach wins)

John Conlin and Garrett Bowden versus the coach in doubles (the coach wins)