In a heartfelt celebration of athleticism and community spirit, the Pomander Gate Tennis & Pickleball Club in Bermuda hosted the 2024 Kim Burns Memorial Open, a tournament that paid tribute to one of the island’s most influential pickleball pioneers
. The event, which featured both tennis and pickleball competitions, brought together players of varying skill levels to honor the legacy of Kim Burns, a beloved competitor and ambassador for the sport.(Bernews)
A Legacy on the Court
Kim Burns was instrumental in introducing and popularizing pickleball in Bermuda. Her passion for the game and commitment to fostering a welcoming environment for players of all backgrounds made her a central figure in the island’s sporting community. In 2019, Burns, alongside partner Sarah Fox, clinched top honors at Bermuda’s first official sponsored pickleball tournament at Pomander Gate, setting a precedent for excellence and sportsmanship in the burgeoning local scene .(royalgazette.com)
The decision to name the annual tournament after Burns reflects her enduring impact on the sport. The Kim Burns Memorial Open has since become a staple in Bermuda’s pickleball calendar, drawing participants from across the island and beyond.
Competitive Spirit and Community Engagement
The 2024 edition of the tournament showcased a series of thrilling matches across various divisions. In the men’s doubles 4.0 & above semi-finals, Neal Towlson and Braxton Stowe secured a decisive 15-4 victory over Joe Todd and Chris Binnie, earning their place in the finals. They were set to face Alvaro Triana Zan and Benjamin Jones, who advanced after defeating Ryan Faries and Tom Mills 15-6 .(Bernews)
The women’s doubles 3.5 & above semi-finals saw Tori Powell and Sarah Jane Jones triumph over Sue Chiappa and Christine Todd with a 15-7 scoreline. In another semi-final, Melisa Judd and Val Stevenson overcame Lily Hallett and Elin Daniels, also with a 15-7 result.(Bernews)
These matches not only highlighted the high level of competition but also underscored the camaraderie and mutual respect among players—a testament to the inclusive spirit that Burns championed.
Recognition in the National Ranking System
The significance of the Kim Burns Memorial Open extends beyond the local community. The tournament is recognized within the Bermuda National Pickleball Ranking System as a Tier 5 Specialty Tournament. Participants earn a 25% bonus in ranking points, reflecting the event’s prestige and its role in promoting competitive play across the island .(Bernews, Pickleball Bermuda)
This recognition not only honors Burns’s contributions but also encourages players to strive for excellence, mirroring the dedication she exhibited throughout her involvement in the sport.
A Lasting Tribute
The Kim Burns Memorial Open serves as a fitting tribute to a woman whose passion and dedication helped lay the foundation for Bermuda’s pickleball community. As players took to the courts, they did so in the spirit of camaraderie and competitive integrity that Burns embodied.
Through this annual event, her legacy continues to inspire both seasoned athletes and newcomers to the sport, ensuring that her impact on Bermuda’s pickleball scene endures for years to come
