Park Optimists Miami, a group that provides therapy, support and activities for people with Parkinson’s Disease, will conduct a charity roundrobin doubles tennis tournament on Feb. 28, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at the Kendalltown Park Tennis Center, 10333 SW 76 St.
The entry fee is $50 and will include three hours of tennis, lunch and gifts for the players. There also will be a silent auction and raffles. For more details see the tournament website at Putawayparkinsonstennis.com.
The purpose of the tournament is to raise money for the National Parkinson Foundation and to provide therapy for the Park Optimists. Parkinson’s Disease afflicts over one million Americans and there are approximately 60,000 new cases diagnosed each year. There is no cure for this progressive, devastating disease. However, recently great strides have been made with new medicines, infusion pumps and the refining of surgeries. There are other promising treatments, not only in the U.S., but in other countries such as Israel, Canada, Sweden, Austria, Australia and the U.K.
The tournament is for women and men of all levels. Anywhere from 40 to 50 players are expected. Everyone will be paired in doubles matches at their respective levels so beginners will not have to play against seasoned veterans. Trophies will be given out at the conclusion of the tournament to the top players at the three designated levels.
Kendalltown and its pro, Kelley Pritchard, have donated its nine courts for the tournament. Pritchard will oversee the tournament, establishing the pairings, and directing all volunteers. The organizer of the tournament is Joe Glick, a member of the Park Optimists. If you want to participate or volunteer, contact Glick at 305-283-8629 or by email at glickjoey@gmail.com.
The main sponsor of the tournament is West Gables Rehabilitation Hospital, which runs a comprehensive therapy program for Parkinson patients. Other top sponsors include UPS, Sabadell United Bank, Secure Windows, South Miami Neurology, Melnick, Lilienfeld and Castonguay, CPA’s, and Magestic Mirror. GT Sports is providing tennis gifts for all players. The trophies are being donated by Orvieto’s Trophies and Awards and More.
