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05 April 2012
The 19th Peach Basket Classic, the YMCA's annual three-on-three basketball tournament will see some exciting changes this year!
With planning well under way for the event scheduled for August 4 & 5, the Peach Basket committee is gearing up to move the tournament from its previous location in the heart of downtown to a few blocks down Main Street between Second and Fifth avenues.
"Partnering with the City, Downtown Foundation, and Farmer's Market should improve the tournament for all involved and I am excited for the move; I think this will give us an opportunity for expansion as the Peach Basket Classic continues its growth" stated Pat McConn, Peach Basket Classic Co-Chair. YMCA Board President, Mick Miller echoes McConn's statement calling the move a "win-win" by keeping the event in downtown and freeing up access to businesses for those who want to shop.
According to Randy Grant, YMCA Executive Director, moving the tournament has been a topic of discussion for the past couple of years. Grant explains with over 1,200 participants representing Walla Walla and 85 other communities there is no doubt that the two and half day tournament has a positive impact on the economy of Walla Walla.
Excitement for the move has already been expressed by businesses that will be impacted in the new location. Beth-Aimee McGuire, Executive Director of Walla Walla Valley Farmers' Market Association is happy to have the YMCA Peach Basket Classic move towards The Farmers' Market this August. "There are over 3,000 people involved including participants, their families and fans which make this event so exciting. This should be a great weekend for everyone involved." McGuire is very encouraged by all of the planning and effort taking place to ensure the success and growth of this downtown community event.
"It was important for Walla Walla YMCA and the City of Walla Walla to come to an agreement. We are here to support the community and this is the year to make the change. With the move underway, we are focusing on putting together the best tournament possible." said Grant.
