THE appearance of wheelchair tennis star Daniela Di Toro will be a highlight of Saturday's start to the McDonald's Gold Classic tournament.
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Number five in the world rankings, Di Toro previously held the No.1 ranking.
Her career includes the French Open doubles title in 2010, and dual Wimbeldon doubles finalist.
The first of the wheelchair matches at the Bendigo Bank complex in Nolan Street will be at 11am on Saturday.
Di Toro's exhibition match on the Bendigo courts is on Saturday from 2pm.
The Bendigo Tennis Association is a strong supporter of Foundation 97 and increasing participation in wheelchair tennis across central Victoria and beyond.
"The Bendigo Wheelchair Tennis Festival is attracting players and interested people from around Victoria to join in the fun," said Foundation 97 Ambassador Noel Clarke.
"Some take matches seriously, but for others it's all about having fun.
"This is the only wheelchair tennis tournament played in country Victoria.
"The aim of this event is to attract and encourage potential new players to the sport."
Those taking part in the wheelchair tennis include Joe Chivers.
McDonald's is a long-time supporter of the Classic and sport across Bendigo and district.
Owner-operator for McDonald's three restaurants in Bendigo, Stefan Wojciechowski said the sponsorship was about supporting the community.
Bendigo Tennis Association executive officer Leon Retallick said McDonald's sponsorship played a big part in keeping entry fees at an affordable level.
"The Classic has $7500 in prizemoney and $3000 in trophies to be won," Retallick said.
"All of our sponsors are crucial in avoiding exorbitant price rises for tournaments."
The McDonald's Classic Junior Tournament and AMT have drawn hundreds of players.
Several of the young stars from the Loddon-Campaspe region will compete in the AMT or junior classic.
The main draw for the juniors starts on Sunday.
Qualifying for the AMT starts on Monday. The main draw hits off Tuesday.
Play will start at 8.30am throughout the week.