Annette's story

I run a social pickleball group in my local area of Burton, so “Dink Pink” jumped into my head. A dink being a type of pickleball shot. 

Visions of pink tutus and tiaras floating around the pickleball court made me giggle 

After receiving the results of a recent MRI scan which forced me to hang up my pickleball paddle (temporarily), I found myself at a loss. I was mourning for the good ol' days of dinks, lobs and smashes.  

So, with fingers firmly crossed, I introduced the idea to the “Pickleball Possy”.  

"What a concept” they said, “I could wear a tutu", "We could do a 24-hour dink off" and "Will there be cake?". 

Cake, I thought, how on earth am I going to sort enough cakes to float this event?  

I'm not ashamed to say that my attempts at baking only go as far as an apple crumble. That was doomed as I accidentally flicked the grill button instead of the oven making a burnt/raw concoction.  

Run, Annette, run! Drop the idea and get out while you can. "Yes, there will be cake." I say. "Bunting and balloons, tea and coffee." (Somebody stop me!) 

This was my first attempt at fundraising. Admittedly I was worried at first, reluctantly trawling through baking recipes, wondering if I could get away with catering the event with rice crispy cakes. Milk chocolate, white and dark chocolate variations. But then an angel landed in my WhatsApp messages, and her name is Alison, AKA Two Hand Ali. 

Alison is super nimble on the court and can play the game with either hand – she means business. Her prowess on the court is nothing compared to her skills in the kitchen (no pickleball pun intended!) 

With the event galloping fast towards me, images of cakes – baked to mouth-watering perfection – were landing in my messages  

Pineapple cake, chocolate brownies, jam and cream scones, lemon drizzle, carrot cake, the list is endless. And so, with the table laden, the possy arrives.  

Grey hair adorned with bright pink headbands, pink sparkling scarfs wrapped around waists. This vision of pink perfection elbowing each other to get a closer look at the dizzying delights! 

On the day of the event, everyone was encouraged to take as much as they wanted (I provided lot of tupperware) and to donate as much as they could. 

With lots of “Dink Pink” Round Robins and energised cake breaks, the event was a hit. And I’m glad that I didn’t listen to my internal voice and run. 

For me, pickleball brings not only a sense of community, a sense of purpose and belonging, but now also cakes!  

I’ve found it’s been so therapeutic taking part in the sport, raising money and helping to raise awareness.  

I’m very grateful to my group members who have been so supportive. A huge thank you to my fellow 'Dinkers' in Burton. 

My top tips for Wear It Pink

1. Get others to help with event organising. 
   My lovely friend and fellow pickler is also an amazing baker and often bakes for lots of local events. She very kindly took up the baton and baked her heart out. 
2. Get the word out about your event. 
   You could advertise your event on social media, approach local businesses or contact your local paper. 

My message for everyone taking part in Wear It Pink 

The money you raise through Wear It Pink could help support you or someone you know in the future. Take pride in what you’re achieving. You’re amazing!