Pickleball Magazine 5-2 | Page 56

Regional matters continued WEST VIRGINIA’S CAMC FOUNDATION PICKLEBALL WINTER CLASSIC O n February 16, the Charleston Area Medical Center (CAMC) Foundation, located in Charleston, West Virginia, held the inaugural CAMC Foundation Pickleball Winter Classic to support essential cancer services offered to people through the CAMC Cancer Center. The CAMC Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the Charleston Area Medical Center. The Classic, played at the Charleston Tennis Club, featured singles, doubles, and mixed doubles play with varying age brackets 52 and an Under 50 Open. A double elimination format was utilized with all Winners Bracket matches the best of three games to 11, and rally scoring used if a third game was necessary. Each participant received a swag bag and a participation medal. Prizes of Selkirk and Pickleball Central gift cards were given to first-, second- and third- place teams. Bryan Cummings, Senior Development Officer at the CAMC Foundation said, “What we hoped to do with this charity tournament was provide passionate pickleball TO SUBSCRIBE, CALL 888.308.3720 OR GO TO THEPICKLEBALLMAG.COM enthusiasts a way to help support patients facing a disease that has impacted too many of us. Pickleball is the country’s fastest growing sport and it’s no different in our region. Our players came out in force to help make our event a success.” USAPA District Ambassador Hal “Butch” Pendell Jr. was instrumental in providing guidance and sharing his passion for the sport. Along with Harper Gardner, amateur tournament guru, it was a smooth tournament process. By exhibiting their skill against worthy competition over a full day, pickleball players raised financial assistance for medication, chemotherapy, lodging, and other costs for patients with cancer whose insurance is not sufficient or for whom the cost of care has become a financial burden. Pickleball truly is a way to have fun while helping others in need! •