Forget-Me-Not Pickleball Tournament : The BC Dementia Care Society (BCDCS) is set to host its inaugural Forget-Me-Not charity pickleball tournament in Langford on October 19 and 20. This event, blending competition with a cause, aims to raise funds to support the creation and implementation of dementia-friendly, socially inclusive communities on Vancouver Island.
A Diverse Field of Competitors
At the tournament, athletes ranging in age from 19 to 79 will showcase their skills, representing not just British Columbia but participants from across Canada and beyond. Some competitors will travel from as far away as Ecuador, Florida, and New York, reflecting the event’s growing popularity. Organizers anticipate a lively atmosphere, with attendees on the lookout for “one or more” Canadian professional pickleball players, adding an extra layer of excitement to the weekend.
Supporting Dementia-Friendly Communities
The charity’s goal goes beyond the courts; it seeks to create initiatives like Memory Cafes, specifically designed for individuals living with dementia and their care partners. These cafés will provide a safe, engaging environment where participants can enjoy various activities and forge connections with others facing similar challenges.
“This tournament not only promotes physical fitness but also fosters social interaction,” the BCDCS stated in a recent news release. “Memory Cafes are about building relationships and support networks for those navigating the complexities of dementia.”
Health Benefits of Pickleball
The choice to host a pickleball tournament stems from the sport’s numerous health benefits. The BCDCS emphasizes how pickleball can improve both mental and emotional well-being. “It is a fun way to stay active and fit as we age and to enjoy a social activity at any level, from recreational to competitive,” the organization explained.
Citing research from Amen Clinics (2022), they highlighted the sport’s role in boosting cognitive health, stating that it enhances blood flow, improves cognitive flexibility, and supports memory retention. “Pickleball protects against cognitive decline and dementia and keeps the brain younger,” they added, reinforcing the sport’s significance.
Event Details
The tournament will take place at the Victoria Pickleball Centre in Langford, running from 8:30 a.m. to approximately 6 p.m. on both days. With over 50 volunteers on hand, attendees are encouraged to engage with the community.
“Say hello, enter to win some prizes, enjoy a beverage, and soak up some great pickleball in a great facility,” the BCDCS invites the public, promising an unforgettable experience filled with camaraderie and purpose.
News in Brief : Forget-Me-Not Pickleball Tournament
The BC Dementia Care Society is hosting the inaugural Forget-Me-Not charity pickleball tournament on October 19 and 20 in Langford. Athletes aged 19 to 79 from Canada and beyond will compete, with funds raised to support dementia-friendly initiatives like Memory Cafes on Vancouver Island. The tournament highlights pickleball’s health benefits, promoting cognitive well-being. Attendees can enjoy various activities at the Victoria Pickleball Centre while engaging with the community.
ALSO READ: Forget-Me-Not Pickleball Tournament 2024 Set to Make a Difference in Victoria
