Grand Rapids Team Aims to Smash Pickleball World Record: A dedicated group of pickleball enthusiasts in Grand Rapids is gearing up to break the Guinness World Record for the longest marathon playing pickleball in doubles. Currently, the record is held by a team from Montana, who played for 27 hours and five minutes. The Grand Rapids team—comprising Brad Haverkamp, Julie Ondersma, Sydney Sonday, and Caleb Dang—is targeting a formidable 30-hour stretch.
Strategic Preparation
Last week, the players engaged in rigorous practice sessions and strategic discussions, showing their enthusiasm and readiness for the challenge. The attempt is scheduled for November 23 at the All In Pickleball Gym, and the team is optimistic about their chances.
Charitable Cause
The event, dubbed “Paddles for a Purpose,” is not just about setting a record but also about making a difference. The group is raising funds for Gift of Life Michigan, a charity supporting organ, eye, and tissue donation. The motivation behind this cause is personal: one of their teammates needs a kidney transplant.
“Having a Guinness record is cool, but then actually raising money for charity for somebody, we know makes it have a purpose. I think when we get tired that’ll probably be what keeps us going.” – (Ondersma)
“We love pickleball in West Michigan but we’re also a really philanthropic, giving community and so everything about this feels good and feels very much West Michigan.” – (Haverkamp)
Community Engagement
The record attempt is free and open to the public, inviting locals to come out and support the players as they strive to make history.
News in Brief: Grand Rapids Team Aims to Smash Pickleball World Record
A Grand Rapids pickleball team is set to challenge the Guinness World Record for the longest doubles pickleball game, aiming for 30 hours of continuous play. Currently, the record stands at 27 hours and five minutes. The event, called “Paddles for a Purpose,” will also support Gift of Life Michigan, a charity dedicated to organ, eye, and tissue donation.
The team’s effort is motivated by the need to support a fellow player in need of a kidney transplant. The record attempt takes place on November 23 at the All In Pickleball Gym, and the public is invited to watch.
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