Whack Cancer in the Gut Pickleball Tournament: A pickleball tournament was held in Richmond on Sunday, February 23, to raise awareness about colon health and colorectal cancer prevention. Hosted by the non-profit organization Hitting Cancer Below the Belt, the event combined competition with education, encouraging players to learn more about the disease.
A Tournament with a Purpose
The tournament took place at Bangers and Dinks, located at 1516 Koger Center Boulevard, where participants had the chance to win prizes while also gaining important knowledge about colon health.
Hitting Cancer Below the Belt, a Richmond-based non-profit focuses on educating the community and providing access to services that help prevent colorectal cancer.
High School Students Take the Lead
This year’s event was organized by the non-profit’s junior board, a group of high school students dedicated to spreading awareness about colorectal cancer. Mindy Conklin, executive director of Hitting Cancer Below the Belt, highlighted the significance of youth involvement.
“We started a junior board about three years ago because colorectal cancer diagnoses are rising sharply in the younger community. And here we are today with the 2nd annual Whack Cancer in the Gut pickleball tournament hosted by our high school students.” – (Mindy Conklin)
Community Participation and Impact
The tournament included students from 10 different high schools in the Richmond area, such as Maggie Walker, Deep Run, Monacan, and Powhatan high schools. Conklin praised the students for their dedication to the cause.
“As a founder and executive director, I can’t tell you how proud I am of these high school students who are getting involved and really sharing colon health information with their peers.” – (Mindy Conklin)
Competitive and Social Divisions
The tournament drew about 50 participants, divided into two categories: 30 players competed in the competitive division, while 20 played in the social division. The event provided a fun yet meaningful way to engage the community in an important health discussion.
News in Brief: Whack Cancer in the Gut Pickleball Tournament
A pickleball tournament in Richmond, hosted by Hitting Cancer Below the Belt, raised awareness about colon health and colorectal cancer prevention. High school students led the event, bringing together participants from 10 schools. With 50 players competing in different divisions, the tournament successfully combined fun, education, and community engagement.
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