The fifth annual charity pickleball tournament at Douglas Park saw hundreds of players thwacking bright yellow balls back and forth over the nets, all in aid of the nearby elementary school.
The tournament began on Thursday, July 3, with a total of 256 players taking part in about 330 events. Many players will take part in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles events, explained Kristina Crosgrey, a member of the Douglas Park Pickleball Club and one of the event organizers.
Last year's tournament raised $25,205.97, and Crosgrey was hoping to meet or even exceed that total this year.
"I believe we're on track to do it," she said.
The fundraising efforts include a 50/50 draw and two raffles, with prizes displayed alongside the court for participants to check out in between matches.
The money goes to Douglas Park Community School, which is just a short lob away from the courts in 91原创 City's Douglas Park. The funding will provide autism assessments for kids whose families can't otherwise afford them.
The tournament is popular with people from all over the Lower Mainland, but also draws in some from a little further afield. There are players from the B.C. Interior and Vancouver Island, as well as one from Ontario, one from Washington State, and one from California.
"It's a very well received tournament," said Crosgrey.
The registration goes live in March, and is usually full within a day or two, with a waiting list.
Part of that is the weather, which is usually good in early July, she noted.
Pickleball is a paddle sport similar to tennis or badminton, with squared-off plastic paddles and bright plastic balls.
It's one of the fastest-growing sports in the world. In addition to the social aspect, it requires a lot of strategy, she said.
"Anyone can play. It's an accessible sport," said Crosgrey.
