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WIMBLEDON STEPS UP SECURITY

July 02, 2007 12:45 PM

WIMBLEDON, England

There's nothing like an attempted terrorist attack - or two - to wake the world of Wimbledon from its sleepy hollow.

With the security-status in England now being classified as “critical,” the All Englad Club has taken major steps to beef up safety.

The move comes on the advice of police following events in London and Glasgow last week.

The most recent measure came around 4:00AM today, as concrete barriers were placed in front of gates, preventing vehicles from entering the premises. Everyone, including players, must enter the venue on foot.

“I think that Wimbledon has to do the best thing that they can do to put on a successful event and safe for the competitors and for the fans, said Venus Williams. So whatever it takes, in this day and age, I think is necessary.”

Ian Ritchie, Chief Executive of the All England Club, doesn’t believe the new procedures will effect the psyche of the players. “I think most players are familiar with security  measures,” he said. “They have accepted that they have to go through these sorts of things and I think the positive side is that they want to see steps being taken. I think that’s true for most spectators, as well.”

The mood amongst tennis fans in the stands of Wimbledon has been surprisingly upbeat. They echo the sentiments of many people in and around London, who are determined not to let the threat of terrorism take over their lives.

If you don't go on with your life, the [terrorists] win," said Sam Boyca. Adds Debbie Vivian, who waited in line for an extra twenty to thirty minutes this morning, "I'd rather them be safe than sorry here. [The new security measures] are definitely an inconvenience, but I'd rather they keep up safe because big events like this are a target for terrorists."

Security is nothing new to Wimbledon. Days before the event even kicks off, bomb-sniffing dogs scour the grounds in search of suspicious scents and bags are checked upon entering the gate. Since the attempted bombing in London last week and the attack on an airport terminal in Glasgow, the dogs have stepped-up their patrol of the grounds, security personnel have become increasingly more visible as they keep their eyes peeled for suspicious activity. Helicopters have begun to patrol the sky on a more regular basis, and each and every bag is thoroughly check by a security office before you are allowed to enter the venue. The search has become more thorough to include umbrellas, which are now required to be opened and checked. And laptops are powered on to ensure they are real and not disguised as an explosive device.

“The safety and security of all those who attend the Championships, in whatever capacity, is of paramount importance to us and I am sure everyone will understand why these sensible precautions are necessary,” adds Ritchie.

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