Shooting for the Washington Kastles - Part 3: WTT Finals BTS

The Washington Kastles had a magical 16-0 undefeated season this past July.  It became the first team in WTT history to complete such a task.  At the end of their regular season, both Rich Kessler and I were asked to travel with the team to Charleston, SC for the World Team Tennis finals where the Kastles were favored to claim the championship.

Since I’ve already shared what gear I used and tips for shooting tennis and sports in general, I thought it would be fun to share some of the behind the scenes moments that took place during finals weekend. 

Hitting traffic on our way to BWI Airport.  What else would you expect driving around D.C.?

Waiting to board our flight.  I’m gradually getting over my fear of flying.

Airborne.  Took some shots from my window/wing seat.

This was my room for a couple hours until Rich and I were both moved to the players’ hotel so traveling with them would be easier.

First match of WTT Finals weekend.  The weather was insanely hot.

Rich and I shared a room in the players’ hotel.  We could hear the ocean waves crashing in the headboard while we slept.

Our room had the most incredible view.

This definitely made up for the room’s view.  It was so good we ate it two days in a row.  Simply amazing!

We had a day off from shooting so we visited the USS Yorktown.  I love WWII and aviation history so this was one of my favorite things about the trip.

I couldn’t help myself.

Rich sitting in the Captain’s chair.

Headed to the final match in the team van with the players.  They sang the whole car ride to the stadium.  Such a great group.

Getting ready for the final match.

I think we had three or four separate lightning/rain delays during the final match.

Hanging out with the team during one of the delays.

Going through shots while waiting to board our flight home.

And this is as far as we got on our flight.  Unboarded for a weather delay, and our flight was eventually cancelled.  What now?

Looks like we’re making an impromptu road trip back to D.C.

Not even 15 miles into the trip and Rich has already lost his mind.

Our ride.  This is the exact moment we dubbed her “The Black Bandit”.

So this must have been why our flight was cancelled.  Probably a good call.

The greatest place on the eastern part of the country.

There’s nothing bad that a stop at South of the Border can’t turn into a positive.

I’ve been to South of the Border several times during summer vacation trips with my family.  Each time we stop, I’m always sure to get a picture with this gorilla.  It’s always a different color.  This time it had a fresh coat of yellow paint.

Rich posing with The Black Bandit before fueling her up and returning her at BWI.

Me and our fearless driver, Jack, in the background both thrilled to finally arrive at BWI.

Finally home.  Such a great feeling.  Our little yorkie, Fritz, even made me a sign.