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Perone takes step into Big Al's lore Medford man wins seventh straight men's 40s singles title By KEVIN GOFF ASHLAND - A large contingent flocked to the final matches of the Big Al's Tennis Tournament on Sunday at a sun-baked Hunter Park. Most of the crowd watched in astonishment at the level of play in the finals of the men's and women's open singles divisions. Somewhat lost in all the commotion of the top-level flights, however, was a rare feat sought by Medford's Dan Perone in the men's 40s singles division finale. Seeking an unheard of seventh straight men's 40s title, Perone accomplished just that as the 49-year-old fought through two three-set matches before etching himself into Big Al's lore with a 6-7, 6-3, 3-1 (retired) victory in Sunday's final over a weary Andris Olins of Ashland. "That poor guy wasn't in any kind of shape to keep playing," Perone said of the No. 3 seed. "His right hand was so cramped he had to ask one of my friends to drive him home." As sweet as No. 7 was to Perone, he's just happy to still be playing tennis. In 1994, Perone had surgery to correct a case of severe tennis elbow, forcing him out of action for a while. But after his return, the Big Al's tournament has been there for the taking. "The first couple of years I won the title, I don't think I lost a set," said Perone, who moved to the Rogue Valley from Colorado Springs, Colo., in 1988. "But the last four years it's gotten harder and harder." Even with all the success the Rockford, Ill., native has soaked up during his run through the 40s division, Perone was never seriously tempted to test his skills in the top-tier men's open singles division. "When I was younger I thought about playing in it," said Perone. "But those guys hit the ball pretty hard and I don't have a big serve. That's where it's at now." Perone began Sunday with a 7-5, 6-1 victory over Han Herrick of Vacaville, Calif., in the semifinals. Olins beat Bob Bryant of Medford, 1-6, 6-1, 6-4, in the other semifinal. Despite the ease in which he dusted off Herrick, Perone wasn't thrilled with his play. "I didn't have my serve working very well," he said. "I was a little nervous through the whole thing. I thought No. 7 was a big deal." Those ready to place bets on an eighth consecutive title might want to hold their money for the time being. "I might give it a go," Perone said on next summer's playing status. "The format for the tournament is pretty tough with the semifinals and finals all on the same day. "We'll see how I feel." Reach reporter Kevin Goff at 776-4483 or e-mail [email protected]. Mail Tribune Home | Ottaway Newspapers, Inc. | Dow Jones & Co., Inc. | Privacy | Contact Us Copyright � 2001 Mail Tribune, Inc.