Andy Murray buys luxury hotel

After my post in January about seeing Andy Murray playing at the Brisbane International Tennis tournament, news came out a few weeks back that he is getting in to the hotel business after buying a luxury hotel in his hometown.

Here's the story:

Game, set and match: Andy Murray outbids rivals to land £1.8million hotel in his home town perfectly placed for four fishing lochs and golf at Gleneagles (... but does it have a tennis court?)

By Hannah Ellis-petersen and Steve Robson

 
British tennis star Andy Murray will be serving up Michelin-starred meals rather than aces - after buying a luxury hotel near his home town for £1.8million.
 
The 25-year-old is the new owner of Cromlix House Hotel - a Victorian mansion just a few miles from Dunblane, Perthshire, where he grew up.
 
He intends to renovate the venue - where his brother Jamie got married in 2010 - in time for the Ryder Cup in 2014 which is taking place in nearby Gleneagles.

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2284558/Andy-Murray-outbids-rivals-land-1-8m-hotel-home-town.html#ixzz2ND0KFWDO

Brisbane International Tennis

With my fellow Scotsman as the main draw card, I was keen to get along to the Brisbane International Tennis Tournament to see him in action. It would also mark my first ever time at a live tennis event.

I was lucky enough to get a late call-up from a friend of mine for a corporate seat on the Saturday which meant I would get to see both men's semis. I then just had to hope Murray made it through and thankfully he's number 3 in the world for a reason so this was no problem for him.

The day itself was great as it wasn't as hot as it had been earlier that week and our seats were on the side just a couple of rows back from the court. Drinks flowed throughout the day and my invite also included a buffet lunch which was thoroughly enjoyed.

Murray's match was unfortunately over too early as his Japanese opponent had to withdraw due to injury so I only got one set from Andy. It was entertaining while it lasted as the Japanese started well and Murray had to fight back to take the first set before the withdrawal came early in the second.

The afternoon finished with my first experience of Pimm's and lemonade (it wouldn't be the tennis without it) which was the perfect end to a great day. Thanks to my friend Scott and our host's Canon for the invite and their generous hospitality.