The Women’s Committee and Playground Partners of the Central Park Conservancy kicked off the fall season with their annual Play for the Park round-robin tennis tournament.
In support of the daily upkeep and ongoing care of Central Park’s 21 playgrounds, the sporty fall benefit raised over $151,000 crucial to providing New York children and families with safe and accessible areas to play. Participants of all skill levels joined spirited matches on Central Park’s Tennis Center’s Har-Tru courts and enjoyed a light breakfast during the two sessions. The event gathered over 100 players and spectators, with many dressed in head-to-toe tennis gear from the event’s new presenting sponsor for 2023, Tuckernuck.
A floral arch by Popup Florist welcomed guests as they entered the courts, where round- robin games were played in an exciting, friendly competition. Prizes and gift bag items were generously donated by Tuckernuck, Dear Annabelle, Le Closet New York, Renwick, Stocked by Three Owls, Supergoop!, and USTA Eastern.
“The Women’s Committee is thrilled to bring back our Play for the Park fundraiser this fall to celebrate our love of tennis and Central Park,” said Jenny Price, Women’s Committee President. “Thank you to our generous sponsors for their support of the Central Park Conservancy’s work.”
“Central Park’s 21 playgrounds are cherished by so many children, families, and New Yorkers,” said Betsy Smith, President and CEO, Central Park Conservancy. “The support provided by the Playground Partners ensures that the playgrounds will remain safe and accessible to all who enjoy them for generations to come. I am grateful to Jenny and the entire Women’s Committee for their steadfast support of the Conservancy and our work to ensure the long-term care of Central Park.”
This year’s event Co-Chairs were Sarah Gallant Kurita, Lara Marcon, Caroline Meade, Erin Nance, and Katie Peek Tochilin, with Yesim Philip as the Honorary Chair. The Co-Chairs were joined by Playground Partners Chairs, Kate Lauprete and Stephanie X. Stamas, along with Women’s Committee President, Jenny Price and Central Park Conservancy President & CEO, Betsy Smith. Guests included Michèle Brazil, Sugie Hong Bruttomesso, Kate Davis, Jocelyn Gailliot, Tracey Huff, Brooke Kelly Murray, and Michelle Madonna.
The first session’s top winners were Mimi Ritzen Crawford and Fraser Maloney, while victory in the second session was celebrated by Juliana Diaz and Kat Dines.
