The Rotary Club of Richmond is hosting a table tennis tournament for people who are 50 years or older to raise funds for outdoor table tennis tables in Richmond’s parks.
“This is mainly a fun event to promote health and mental wellness for ages 50 and over,” said Suna Yee, from the organizing committee of the Rotary Club of Richmond, to the Richmond News.
The tournament will take place on April 20 and 21, when people will compete across six categories depending on their gender and age. There will also be a “friendly doubles” game when partners are randomly picked by the tournament committee.
Trophies will be given to winners of each category and two MVP players will be chosen and receive two $50 gift cards from Price Smart, according to Yee.
“This is the first year we are hosting this event,” said Yee.
“Table tennis is an easy sport that can get seniors to do more exercise and be healthier. It involves eye coordination as well, and helps delay and possibly prevent Alzheimer’s.”
She added that all judges at the tournament are professional ones from the B.C. Table Tennis Association.
The club came up with the idea to host a fundraising tournament after receiving the City of Richmond’s call to help people in the community to get more involved with neighbours and other community members, according to Yee.
All the proceeds raised during the tournament, including participants’ registration fee, sponsorship and tickets for a gala at the end, will go towards purchasing and installing outdoor table tennis tables in a Richmond park.
“Many residents here tend to play table tennis, but we want them to go to play outdoor in parks, not just indoors, and help them connect with people,” said Yee.
The event venue can host up to 150 participants over the two days and the club’s goal is to raise $10,000, which can purchase at least three outdoor table tennis tables.
“The outcome will enhance physical and social connectedness and easy access to amenities within and among neighbourhoods and communities,” said Yee.
To register, call 604-278-5100 or email to visit https://delivr.com/265q9. The deadline for registration is 5 p.m. on April 15. Registration fee starts from $35.
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