Pickleball fundraiser set for Saturday

Proceeds help with pickleball court renovations in Raymond's Kiwanis Park

August 18, 2023 46

RAYMOND — Here’s a quick question for you: what does putt-putt golf have to do with pickleball?

This Saturday in Raymond, a putt-putt golf fundraiser will raise funds for the renovation and continued care of the pickleball courts at Kiwanis Park.

“Garage Golf” will feature nine holes at various locations in Raymond Saturday between the hours of 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.

The event is sponsored by the Panhandle Picklers, and the cost to participate is $25 per person. Event registration will begin at 12:30 p.m. at the American Legion Hall. All vehicles are welcome with the exception for ATVs and side-by-sides.

What exactly is pickleball?

That’s great and all, but what exactly is pickleball?

A video from PlayPickleball.com explains the sport:

“It is a game that is appropriate for players of all ages,” said Pat Pope, a member of the Panhandle Picklers. “[The] rules for pickleball are simple, making it a great introductory sport.”

The Picklers are a group of women throughout the Panhandle region of Montgomery County who have played the sport for a couple of years.

Saturday marks the first fundraiser as a group. They are, with the city’s blessing, seeking grants as well as financial support from local individuals and businesses.

Funds raised will go toward costs to redevelop the pickleball courts at the park. With volunteer help, the deteriorating asphalt will be removed.

The approximate cost for the project will run around $65,000, according to Pope.

What to expect Saturday

The fundraiser will offer a silent blind auction, a 50/50 raffle, and a pulled pork sandwich meal, which includes chips and soda.

Beverages, snacks, and games will be available at each of the hole locations. They will also be accepting donations.

More information about the event is available by calling (217) 313-0430.

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Jake Leonard

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Jake Leonard, a broadcast media and journalism veteran, is the editor-in-chief of Heartland Newsfeed. Leonard is also GM and program director of Heartland Newsfeed Radio Network, wrestling editor and contributing writer for Ambush Sports, a contributing writer for My Sports Vote and Midwest Sports Network, and a former contributor to Bleacher Report and Overtime Heroics. He resides at home in Nokomis, Ill. with his dog Buster.