Court One Rally for the Cure a Huge Success
Wednesday marked the second annual Susan G. Komen tennis rally for the Cure at Court One in Okemos. Nearly 100 people attended this years event and over $2,000 was raised to benefit the Greater Lansing chapter of the Susan G. Komen foundation.
“What sets this event apart from other area events benefiting the foundation during breast cancer awareness month is that we use tennis to draw people in,” Court One Membership Director Nicole Brillantes, 38, said. “Tennis tends to draw a different crowd than area races might. It’s unique and it’s not competitive so it allows for a chance to have more fun and socialize.”
The event was started in 2007 after a group of members brought the idea to Brillantes. This years event not only grew in attendees but housed more activities as well. The event, staffed by Court One tennis instructors and USTA pros, had a massage therapist, free lunch from Quiznos, facials and a fashion show put on by a local designer.
“It’s important for Court One to give back to the community through events like this one. After all it’s the community that has allowed us to grow,” Brillantes said. “We strive to host at least two charitable events a month to give back.”
For $20 participants were able to play tennis for three hours, have lunch, get a goody bag and be entered in a drawing for a large prize, such as a Douglas J. gift certificate, golf package and brand new tennis racket.
The event was open to members and non-members alike. Several of those who attend have been touched personally by breast cancer, Brillantes said.
“Some members I’ve known for a long time shared their own stories about their battles with breast cancer with me,” she said. “I learned that one member who I’ve known for awhile has battled breast cancer three times. It was touching that she shared this with me and was able to come to the event and give her support.”
Brillantes is already making plans for next years event and hopes that it will grow to be even bigger.
“It was so meaningful for everyone that was there,” she said. “I’m lucky to be apart of such a special event.”
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