Dubai: Ace Ventures, franchise owners of UAE Royals, were recognised for their commitment and passion by International Premier Tennis League (IPTL) creator Mahesh Bhupathi during the team’s official launch in Dubai on Tuesday.
Bhupathi called the group of six entrepreneurs as the “gatekeepers” to the UAE franchise which will take on teams from India, Singapore and the Philippines in the inaugural IPTL from November 28 — December 13.
Ace Ventures comprises Sachin Gadoya, Sawan Ravani, Rahul Saharia, Kausal Majithia, Chirag Vora and Kunal Bansal who describe themselves as a company “committed to further the development and growth of sports in the region and to create a platform to bring out the existing sporting talent and energy of the UAE.”
Speaking during the launch, Ravani said that sometimes you have to listen to your heart, and not your head. “We want to create opportunities for every possible kid in the UAE to get the opportunity to be part of the IPTL,” he said. “That’s why its all coming from the heart at the moment, but obviously we have to keep in touch with reality and see how things shape up as we go along.”
Bhupathi, who recalled playing his first tournament in Dubai as a youngster, said he was deeply honoured to have the support of Ravani and his associates and hoped their initiative will stimulate youngsters in the region to seek excellence in tennis and other sports.
