Central Park Conservancy’s Women’s Committee and Playground Partners hosted a spirited edition of their annual Play for the Park Tennis Tournament, raising $165,000 in crucial funds for the ongoing maintenance of Central Park’s 21 playgrounds.
The Playground Partners, a program of the Women’s Committee of the Central Park Conservancy, is dedicated to fundraising in support of the daily care of the Park’s beloved outdoor play spaces for the enjoyment of millions of families annually.
Reveling in a picturesque September day, players of the two sessions of “105” style matches were fitted in stylish tennis attire from Tuckernuck, the event’s sponsor for the third year in a row.
On and off the courts, attendees stayed hydrated courtesy of Smartwater. Guest gifts were generously provided by Tuckernuck and Ladurée, with tournament prizes donated by Dear Annabelle, Olaplex, Tuckernuck, and USTA Eastern.
“Play for the Park has become a fun and cherished tradition that I look forward to, officially ushering in the fall season with our Women’s Committee and Playground Partners community for an incredibly special purpose: supporting our playgrounds,” said Tracey Huff, Women’s Committee President.
“We are grateful for the Women’s Committee and Playground Partners, whose dedication and enthusiasm keep Central Park’s 21 playgrounds joyful and inviting for New York’s children and families,” said Betsy Smith, President & CEO of the Central Park Conservancy. “Their steadfast support ensures the Conservancy can continue to preserve these beloved spaces at the heart of the City for generations to come.”
Event Co-Chairs Susan Calhoun, Sada Grieve, Emily McLellan, Shannon Robinson, Christina Sethi, Virginia Tomenson and honorary chair, Yesim Philip, were joined by Playground Partners Chair Melanie McLennan, and Vice Chairs Kara Gerson and Lizzy Quick. Other tournament players included Tuckernuck co-founders, Jocelyn Gailliot and Madeline Grayson; Katherine Birch, Alana Frankfort, Amanda Fuhrman, Adrienne Israel, Ellen Vagelos Masseur, Heather McAuliffe, Angela Pham, Dorothy Scarborough, Amy Tarr, and Amanda Taylor.
Deb Dowling and Andrea Whittle were victorious during the morning session’s competition, and Hilary Peek and her sister Katie Peek Tochilin were crowned the afternoon session’s champions.
Image credit: Bre Johnson/BFA
