Thermopylae Redux

"Titan, I suppose because Tarpon Springs has a rich Greek heritage you'll consider this a Pyrrhic victory" exclaimed an equally exhausted George 'Genealogist' Pratt at the conclusion of the (6-4) set at the Tennis and Sail Club. The 55 minute contest was played in oppressive Florida summer conditions that sapped the energy of both contestants to such a degree that the potential second set was cancelled after the third game required five deuces. The rejuvenated 'Kooky Kansan' again stymied the offense of the 'overbearing oaf' with clutch defensive returns that depleted the resources of both 'cranky curmudgeons.' One minute change overs became 4 and 5 minute respite breaks. The 'perspiring prevaricator' broke through at three games all and held on to serve it out against the 'sweating seafarer' who eventually lost his sea legs in the 10th game. "George, this was a 21st century Thermopylae. We were two Spartans out there defending our honor." The significance of that battle was not lost on this 'Son of the American Revolution' who eruditely commented: "Titan, the Persian General was Xerxes, right? I think you and I playing tennis in this weather are aptly named descendants of him - "Jerksies."