Waterford's Vinny Keane wins two golds at Visually Impaired tennis championships

Waterford’s Vinny Keane took home two gold medals at the national Visually Impaired tennis finals in Sunderland in November.

Keane beat Yorkshire’s Guy Keating in a gruelling men's singles final that lasted 2 hours and 50 minutes. The game was ultimately decided by a razor-thin championship tie-break.

“Guy is an incredible player. Always gives me a tough challenge,” Keane said.

“I was very happy and relieved to win. I would like to thank the people of Waterford for all their support.”

He gave a special thanks to his wife Lisa “who drives me everywhere”.

Keane also picked up a doubles win with British player Ivan Rodriguez Deb.

Keane competes in the B2 category of blind tennis reserved for players with partial sight. B2 players are allowed three bounces of the ball before returning.

The game is played on a smaller court with a lower net, with the ball itself containing bearings that make a sound when it bounces or is struck.

The two wins come after Keane captured two bronze medals at the International Blind Tennis Association (IBTA) European Championships in Poland in October.

Speaking to the News & Star after his successes in Poland, Keane said he hopes to inspire future generations through his exploits.

“It's just you versus the opponents. That's the great thing about tennis. In singles, you're on your own. If you make a mistake, it's your fault. You can't blame anyone else but yourself.

“I'm just hoping my success will get people all over Waterford playing tennis.”