THUNDER BAY – Local pickleball enthusiasts took to the courts on Sunday for a good cause - helping local Special Olympic athletes get to the games.
A Sunday “fun-raiser” pickleball tournament was held at the Moose Lodge with the aim of raising money to help send local athletes to the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games later this year in Calgary.
Two local athletes said that the support from local pickleballers is a big boost for them reaching their dreams.
“I came to go to Calgary for the nationals,” said Vance Montgomery. “And I’m going to win the gold medal.”
“Same thing,” said Robert Myers. “I want to win that gold in Calgary, Alberta.”
Jason Horychuk, head coach of the Thunder Bay Pickleball Club, said players are always looking for an excuse to get out and play their favourite game, but being able to help other athletes just makes it that much better.
“It’s really exciting. We try to run these tournaments here three or four times per year. This event, on a Sunday, as you can see, we have a full house,” he said. “Plays are going to go on until about 7:30-8 o’clock tonight. It’s for a great cause.”
If you are interested in learning more about the quickly growing sport of pickleball, visit the Thunder Bay Pickleball Club Facebook page.
To find out more about the Special Olympics or how to help get local athletes to the games, visit the Special Olympics Ontario website.
