$5,000 Raised for Autism Speaks Canada at The Gamble 2022

Highlights from the Gamble 2022 Charity Tournament

This annual event is in honour of Ross “The Rabbit” Gamble, who passed away in 1989 and was a member of VRC. Ross was a stand-up guy and a keen doubles player. This year we celebrated the 32nd annual Gamble 100 and 11th annual 75 events.

The Gamble is a handicap tournament based on the ages of the partners, with the “100” event for older, more seasoned players and the “75” event for younger players (40/50ish).

Thirty six (36) players enjoyed a Calcutta and dinner at VRC on December 6 to bid on 18 teams, with 20% of the total bidding amount going to Autism Speaks Canada (ASC). In addition, $25 from each player entry in the tournament also went to ASC as a donation, with a tax receipt for participants. Further donations were raised through the auction of items and additional points for teams. Some players donated some of their auction winnings too.

Play started Wednesday December 7 and finished with finals on Sunday December 11 at VRC.

Congratulations to the winners:

  • Gamble 100: Rick Ng and Mark Levey defeated Shawn Patton and Gord Pybus (3-2)
  • Gamble 75: Carl McCreath and Mike Carrier defeated Gary Evans and Jongho Kim (3-2)

“The tournament raised over $5,000 for Autism Speaks Canada and I wish to thank all participants in supporting the tournament and the charity,” shared Brian Covernton, the tournament chair.

Many thanks to the tournament supporters:

  • Birdies and Balls Pro Shop (Paul Deziel)
  • Autism Speaks Canada
  • Josh Struthers
  • Squash BC
  • Isleptsowell.com (Erik Nilsson)
  • Steamworks Brewing Co./Rogue Kitchen and Wetbar (Carl McCreath)
  • Graphic Design by Yasmine Franchi

Thanks to VRC for the use of the facilities.

Lastly, a special thanks to the tournament committee:

  • Brian Covernton (Chair)
  • Rip Peterman
  • Tom Locke
  • Yasmine Franchi
  • Ernie Chan
  • Gary Wong

Below are links to the finals on YouTube along with a tribute to Ian McNeil. Ian, a great supporter of squash, recently passed away and was an Honorary Life Member of VRC.