FOLEY — The Foley Event Center was filled with energy and competitive spirit as the Bama Beach Pickleball Club hosted its second-annual pickleball tournament, raising $20,000 to benefit gastric cancer research and awareness.

Over 300 people, including players from as far as Minnesota, gathered at the venue Aug. 25-27 to take part in the fundraiser.

Pickleball enthusiasts of all levels played on the 12 courts as the sound of plastic balls hitting fiberglass paddles echoed throughout the venue.

With the motto "It takes guts," the tournament transcended competition, serving as a platform to raise awareness and contribute to a cause.

BBPC President Scott Korth said he was pleased with the outcome of the tournament.

“This year, we upgraded some of the things we have done at the facility, kind of enhanced the player experience, so it has been good for all of us,” Korth said.

Korth added that these tournaments were started up because of a man named Hans Rueffert who was diagnosed with gastric cancer a few years ago.

Rueffert has since been healed from the cancer and even played in the BBPC tournament.

“This tournament is for a great cause and having Hans here to help kind of push that, with him being a survivor of gastric cancer, it is neat that people see it and not just give into a blank cause,” said the BBPC president.

BBPC Treasurer Sam Strite praised the community for helping raise funds.

“The support we received from the community — businesses and individuals who signed up as sponsors — raised almost half of the money that was awarded to the Foundation,” he said.

Strite added the biggest sponsor was Lulu’s restaurant in Gulf Shores, donating $1,500 as well as providing a hydration station for attendees.

Strite noted the tournaments hosted by the organization could not have been done without those who attend and continue to support.

“By playing and contributing labor and dollars to the tournament, we were able to once again make a sizable donation to the GC Foundation,” Strite said. “Maybe someday 'It takes guts' will be a famous saying known and understood by all.”