Langley City Pickleball Tournament: A record-breaking pickleball event in Langley City has set a new high for charitable contributions in the sport. The fourth annual Douglas Park Pickleball charity tournament, held from July 4-7, raised an impressive $25,205.97. This significant sum will support learning assessments at Douglas Park Community School.
Tournament Highlights
Organizers reported a notable increase in participation this year, with more than 230 players competing—up from 180 in 2023. The previous year’s tournament had raised $20,062 for the Douglas Park Community School Society. This year’s turnout exceeded expectations and showed the growing community support for the cause.
Pickleball’s Origins
The sport of pickleball, which blends elements of tennis and badminton with squared-off rackets and a hollow plastic ball, was created in 1965. It originated on Bainbridge Island, Washington, when future congressman and state lieutenant governor Joel Pritchard, along with Barney McCallum and Bill Bell, adapted a badminton court with table tennis paddles and a modified ball after losing their shuttlecock.
Name Controversy
The origins of the sport’s name are covered in mystery, with various theories suggesting it was either named after a family pet, a term used by one of the founders, or a playful reference to putting an opponent “in a pickle.”
News in Brief: Langley City Pickleball Tournament
The Douglas Park Pickleball charity tournament in Langley City raised a record $25,205.97 for learning assessments at Douglas Park Community School. Held from July 4-7, the event attracted over 230 players, surpassing last year’s participation and fundraising totals.
Pickleball, which combines tennis and badminton elements, was invented in 1965 on Bainbridge Island. The sport’s name has several origin theories, including references to a family pet or a playful term used by the founders.
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