Annual Pickleball Tournament in Penticton Raises $31,000 for Mental Health

The fourth annual Pickleball for Mental Health tournament in Penticton successfully raised $31,000 for the Canadian Mental Health Association – South Okanagan Similkameen (CMHA-SOS). The event, held from August 29 to 31, 2023, attracted over 200 competitors from the region and beyond, demonstrating a strong community commitment to mental health support.

More than 217 players of varying ages and skill levels participated in the tournament, which took place at the outdoor pickleball courts in Robinson Park. The proceeds from this event will directly fund essential mental health programs and services, including suicide prevention training, anger management classes, Mental Health First Aid, and a meals program for individuals living with mental illness in Penticton.

Leah Schulting, the Executive Director of CMHA-SOS, expressed her enthusiasm for the growth of the tournament this year. “We saw incredible growth this year — more players, more sponsors, more volunteer referees, and more spectators,” she stated. “This tournament continues to grow in popularity, and the community support has been truly heartwarming.”

Community Engagement and Support

The tournament is organized in partnership with the Penticton Pickleball Club, which not only schedules the games but also has provided referees in previous years. Local businesses have also played a significant role as sponsors, contributing to the event’s success. Many residents participated actively, with several local players achieving notable finishes.

The tournament recognized various categories, with medals awarded to top players. Some of the highlights include:

– **3.0, any age**: Silver – Markus Quintero & Teresa Dingil
– **3.5, 55+**: Gold – Ronna Pearson & Bill Pacheco
– **3.5, 60+**: Gold – Helen Tidder & Steve Tidder
– **4.5+, 55+**: Silver – Megan Dorrington & Kham Douangpanya

Impact on Mental Health Programs

The funds raised from this tournament will bolster CMHA-SOS’s ongoing efforts to provide mental health services in the community. These include advocacy initiatives and resources aimed at improving the mental well-being of local residents. The tournament’s popularity reflects a growing awareness of mental health issues and the importance of community support.

As the event continues to evolve, the commitment to raising awareness and funding for mental health remains at the forefront of the tournament’s mission. The success of the fourth annual Pickleball for Mental Health serves as a reminder of the power of community in addressing critical health issues.