BETTY Carlson is still acing her opponents on the tennis courts at 86.
And she has no thoughts of retiring.
"I will be 87 on February 17, next year," Mrs Carlson said.
"I will keep playing as long as I can."
She is a long-time member of the Illawarra Suburbs Lawn Tennis Association which operates at many locations in the St George district and Sutherland Shire.
In fact, she is the oldest women's player registered still playing in the association competitions.
Mrs Carlson, of Caringbah, joined the association in 1973.
She grew up at Bondi and for many years she lived at Ramsgate.
"I only play once a week now on Tuesdays here at Sylvania Waters Tennis Centre.
"I was playing twice a week for many years.
"I enjoy the friendships I have made over many years at tennis."
Her form is still impressive as she is rated highly by her peers on the court.
In 2015 together with women players Win Glass, Irene Ling, Christine Small and Evelyn Street the team won the B4s competition.
Mrs Carlson grew up in a tennis playing family.
"My mother, my father and my relatives played tennis," she said.
Daughter Ann and granddaughter Jana play tennis.
The association provides tennis in the open age groups (19 and over) and has 800 members.
In the juniors category, up to under 19, the association has 400 members.
Association registrar Rosanna Avenia said everyone loves Betty's company.
Details: stgeorgesutherlandtennis.com.au.
