They are new this year: around ten wooden chalets, loaned by the town of Locronan, took place in the bays of the 16th edition of the Quimper Tennis Open. More than just a decor, this winter village is home to a diversity of services and meetings. “Before, we had classic tables and barnums, but this year, the idea was to create a real living space,” explains Amélie Goarzin, manager of the Nektar pastry and bakery chalet. Here, we offer sandwiches, burgers, salads, and sweet treats, all with a smile.
In another chalet, “Chez Père Benoît” highlights broths, friendly and affordable places inspired by Parisian traditions. “Broths are trendy at the moment. We try to develop this concept by participating in events like this,” explains Glenn Barazer, responsible with Ludovic Volant. Attached to Chez Max (Quimper) and Chez Gustave (Concarneau), the stand offers homemade cuisine that changes every day, with a nod to the French player Benoît Paire in its name.
A few steps away, Yvan and Anne Cotto, well-known figures among pancake lovers, offer savory and sweet pancakes. “We’ve been here for years, but seeing the chalets bring everyone together is really a great idea,” confides Yvan. On Monday, their creperie was already attracting spectators as well as players and volunteers.
Unique services for a varied audience
The winter village is not limited to catering. As soon as you enter, a chalet highlights the know-how of people with disabilities at Esat Ty Hent Glaz, who specialize in particular in the manufacture of tennis nets used on the Open courts.
On the left, the chalet reserved for players’ stringing welcomes Laurent Lardon, professional stringer, supported by Antoine Gaz, tennis instructor, who lends him a hand. Together, they adjust rackets and tensions to meet the needs of competitors. “Players bring their rackets every day, sometimes after only an hour of play. It’s a question of optimizing their performance,” explains Laurent Lardon. With dozens of strings made every day, his expertise is essential, sometimes even in an emergency, between two sets.
Right next door, the Décathlon chalet is aimed at the general public. Here, fans can have their racket strung “like the pros” on site or leave with accessories: caps, wristbands, and the famous large tennis balls ideal for collecting autographs.
-A little further on, Lucie Baccon, seated shiatsu practitioner, offers visitors a moment of relaxation. “My goal is to prevent tension linked to stress or bad posture,” she explains.
The Quimper barber, for his part, brings a touch of style with cutting and beard services at a reduced price for the Open: €15 instead of €25, or €25 for the complete set.
“The players benefit from free services, but our services are open to everyone,” explains Jordan Lennon, manager of the Barbier de Kemper.
An atmosphere that is unanimous
Each chalet has its own personality and gives a great dynamic to the tournament. “These chalets structure the space better and make the experience more convivial,” observes Philippe, a volunteer at the bar chalet, before adding: “It’s important to bring change and a little modernity.” “It’s nicer!” », enthuses Alain, also a volunteer. And at the bar, there is something for everyone: coffees, cold drinks or a friendly drink to prolong the festive spirit.
Swiss
