It all started at a thrift store . . .

. . . the ARC to be exact. In early 2003, the Grandfather of the Wooden Open, (known only as 'Drake'), was rummaging through every thrift store, cleaning them out of their wooden loot.

In the Summer of 2003 . . .

. . . the future director of the Wooden Open approached Drake and was granted permission to begin the most successful mixed doubles wooden racquet tennis tournament in Denver history. Thirty participants gathered, stawberries and cream were served, and the Wooden Open was born. And if the sun is high, you'll see Drake in the shadows, watching his baby grow up.