This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Community Corner

The American Pickleball Tour Returns to Winter Haven August 16-18!

The tournament is proud to announce a new charity partner - The American Red Cross.

First-time tournament players are encouraged to attend.
First-time tournament players are encouraged to attend. (American Pickleball Tournament)

Join the dynamic fun during the return of the 3-day Winter Haven American Pickleball Tournament (APT) beginning on Friday, August 16 and continuing through Sunday, August 18! This unforgettable tournament experience has something for everyone no matter what your skill level or age, and first-time tournament players are encouraged to attend. The competition will take place at the AdventHealth Fieldhouse 210 Cypress Gardens Blvd, in Winter Haven. The Tour is excited to announce a new charity partner for the event - The American Red Cross. The American Red Cross works diligently to deliver vital services – from providing relief and support to those in crisis, to preparation for emergency responses.

APT Winter Haven not only embraces the sport of Pickleball (a combination of tennis, badminton, and ping pong), but also enables players to connect with others and spend time with those who have similar interests during social events. These events will include Open Play for everyone on Friday, August 16 beginning at 3 p.m. and after the tournament concludes on Sunday, August 18, APT will host a fun social gathering for all players and spectators alike to come eat, drink, and talk about “dinks”!

“I am so excited to be partnering with a nonprofit that saves lives - by supplying 40% of the nation’s blood donations,” said Aaron Del Mar, APT founder. “The American Red Cross assists veterans, provides disaster relief, offers health and safety courses and so much more!”

Find out what's happening in New Tampafor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Parking is free and those who don’t choose to compete are encouraged to take advantage of open play courts on Friday afternoon or relax in the bleachers and cheer on their favorite players.

The official hotels of the APT are the Holiday Inn (200 Cypress Gardens Boulevard) and the Hampton Inn (202 Cypress Gardens Boulevard). Participants who book a hotel room at the Holiday Inn or the Hampton Inn will receive a refund for their APT registration fee (additional events or swag are not included) after the tournament. A post-tournament Google Form with the hotel confirmation will need to be filled out in order to be refunded for the tournament!

Find out what's happening in New Tampafor free with the latest updates from Patch.

APT participants are encouraged to stay after the tournament and enjoy some sightseeing. Sites include Scenic Pontoon Day Cruises, Theatre Winter Haven, Sherman's Antiques, and the Auburndale Speedway which are all family-friendly places to explore while in the area.

For more information, to become a tournament sponsor or ambassador, or to register, visit https://americanpickleballtour.com/winter-haven-fl/. For questions about this event, email events@adrenalinespecialevents.com.

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?

More from New Tampa