According to Sam Strite, treasurer for Bama Beach Pickleball Club, pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in America. The Gastric Cancer Tournament is expected to draw over 300 pickleball players from across the Southeast. Participants will compete in women’s doubles, men’s doubles, mixed doubles and dingles tournaments during the five-day event.

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FOLEY — Bama Beach Pickleball Club is hosting a five-day pickleball tournament to benefit gastric cancer Aug. 23-27 at the Foley Event Center.

The club's founder, Eddie McDonald, established Bama Beach Pickleball Club in 2018 after moving to Alabama from Georgia. Little did he know that one of his close friends, Hans Rueffert, who was also a pickleball player, would be affected by gastric cancer. Rueffert would be the reason the club would begin organizing tournaments dedicated to raising funds and awareness for gastric cancer.

According to Sam Strite, treasurer of Bama Beach Pickleball Club, this year marks the second edition of the fundraiser.

"Last year, we raised $22,000, and the goal is to make as much money this year," Strite said.

The tournament is expected to draw over 300 pickleball players from across the Southeast. Participants will compete in women's doubles, men's doubles, mixed doubles and dingles tournaments during the five-day event.

With the support of 20 volunteers each day, the club aims to ensure the smooth running of the fundraiser.

"Admission is free every day, and the public is welcome to come and see pickleball at its best," Strite said.

The tournament will feature 18 courts and will offer a hydration station supported by LuLu's Restaurant. Other local restaurants, including Foosackly's, Tacky Jacks, Lamberts Café and The Brick Oven, are also sponsoring the event.

To register, visit pickleballbrackets.com and search Gastric Cancer Foundation Tournament.