Pickleballers attempt Guinness world record

SportsHealth

Jul 31

Four area pickleball players are hoping to set a new world record and raise awareness and money all in one swing. West Michigan residents Brad Haverkamp, Julie Ondersma, Sydney Sonday, and Caleb Dang will try to break the Guinness World Record for longest marathon playing pickleball by competing for 30 consecutive hours. The current world record is 27 hours and 5 minutes set by a foursome out of Missoula, Montana on January 19, 2024.

The record-breaking attempt will take place at Paddles for a Purpose on November 23 at the All In Pickleball Gym in Byron Center. But, next week, in honor of National Pickleball Day on August 8, the group will play a special practice session at All In from noon to 2 p.m.

All funds raised during the Paddles for a Purpose event will support Gift of Life Michigan, which focuses on organ, eye, and tissue donation—a cause important to the players after a fellow competitor needed a kidney transplant.

Evan Zuiderveen, a 23-year-old pickleball player from Ada is one of more than 2,400 Michigan residents currently waiting for a life-saving organ and the 80 percent specifically in need of a kidney.

“Evan hasn’t let his diagnosis keep him off the court,” said event organizer and competitor, Brad Haverkamp. “Watching him play has been inspiring, and we hope through this event we’re able to inspire others to help save lives like his.”

To learn more about Paddles for a Purpose and pledge your support, visit https://giftoflifemichigan.org/get-involved/events/paddles-for-a-purpose.

To join or learn about the Michigan Organ Donor Registry, visit https://giftoflifemichigan.org/.