By Susan Winkie
The 4th Annual OBWC Ping Pong Tournament is back on Friday, September 27th. This annual event features fierce competition, with the current champion, Kevin Hastings, coming back to defend his two year reigning title.
The 1st tournament kicked off in 2019, but was cancelled the next 2 years due to COVID. Now on its 4th year, it has grown into one of the most highly anticipated parties in Ocean Beach.
The tournament is sponsored by Skrewball Whiskey. This year’s winner will go home with the treasured Golden Paddle and a WWE Style Championship Belt-provided by Skrewball.
Tournament Schedule
6:00: Player sign in and warm ups
6:25 National Anthem
6:30 First Match
Match’s refresh every 15 minutes through the semi and then the FINAL!
All proceeds of the Ping Pong Tournament go to support local philanthropic endeavors of the Ocean Beach Woman’s Club.
Susan Winkie serves as the MC and event coordinator. When asked about the tournament, she said, “It’s a 32 bracket competition, and each player is guaranteed at least 2 games. Player spots sell out early every year. There’s tons of food and beverages for spectators from local OB restaurants, – so we invite the whole community to come and watch the action for free. My personal favorite part is at 6:25-where we kick it off with the National Anthem, this year sung by 9 year old Kiyo Cadwell.
By the time of the final, all the tables are pushed aside except for one – and the championship match begins.”
Spectators relaxing outside. Its free to watch and food and beverage sales go directly to the local charities via the OBWC Philanthropy and Social Justice Committee.
Carrie Harris maintains the official scoreboard. A large scoreboard is also projected on the big screen.
One table, 2 players. The final is fierce. Kevin Hastings reigned over Mark Mendenhall last year. They are both returning to play this year.
Did not know Kevin H went big for ping pong.