Pioneering Partnership with MLP Founder Steve Kuhn to Launch Hong Kong’s First Indoor Pickleball Social Club in Hong Kong
Launch 12 Courts in Multiple Locations Across Hong Kong by End of 2024, On Track to Becoming the Largest Pickleball Organisation in Hong Kong
Unveils New Pickleball Courts, Bar, and Academy to Bring Pickleball to the Heart of Hong Kong’s Sports Community
HONG KONG, Sept. 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Bay Pickle, a pioneer in lifestyle sports and community-driven experiences, is proud to announce the grand opening of Bay Pickle, Hong Kong’s first-ever indoor pickleball social club, located in Causeway Bay. This launch is just the beginning of a bold, multi-phase expansion plan that aims to position Bay Pickle the premier destination for pickleball enthusiasts across Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area in China.
With plans to roll out eleven additional professional courts by the end of 2024 and beyond, Bay Pickle is set to lead a transformative movement in sport in the region. Combining top-tier facilities, inclusive programming, and social interaction, Bay Pickle is poised to become the largest pickleball organisation in Hong Kong.
A Groundbreaking Partnership: Steve Kuhn and Bay Pickle
Leading this revolutionary venture is Steve Kuhn, the visionary founder of Major League Pickleball (MLP), a collective synonymous with pickleball excellence in the United States. Much like the NBA’s transformative influence on basketball, MLP has played a pivotal role in propelling pickleball into the mainstream, making it one of the fastest-growing sports in America. Under Steve’s leadership, MLP has catapulted pickleball into the national spotlight, establishing a professional league akin to the NBA in basketball. In the U.S., MLP has not only elevated pickleball into a premier competitive sport but has also cultivated a vibrant ecosystem of fans, athletes, and communities, fostering a dynamic sports culture that is now recognized on a global scale. Steve’s investment in Bay Pickle marks the first step in bringing that same level of innovation and growth to Hong Kong and the broader GBA market in China.
The powerful collaboration between Steve Kuhn, Albert Fung and Ken Deng, Co-Founder of Bay Pickle, and the Founding Members Alex Chan and Jenny Wan, sets the stage for a transformative experience in Hong Kong’s sports scene. Together, they are creating a world of innovation, community, and excellence. Bay Pickle’s inaugural facility, boasting over 12,000 square feet of professional courts, represents a pioneering leap in pickleball engagement, promising an unparalleled pickleball and social experience.
Major League Pickleball (MLP) Founder and pickleball visionary Mr. Steve Kuhn, shared his excitement for the future of pickleball in Asia during the launch event, “My goal is to raise awareness of pickleball across Asia, starting right here in Hong Kong. With the potential inclusion of pickleball as an Olympic sport, we have a unique opportunity to elevate its profile and engage a new generation of players. I envision Bay Pickle as a cornerstone for this movement. Together, we can inspire countless individuals to pick up a paddle and join in the fun of this wonderful sport. The energy and inclusivity that pickleball brings is unmatched, and I believe Bay Pickle will be instrumental in fostering that spirit throughout Asia.”
Bold Expansion Strategy: Transforming Hong Kong into GBA’s Pickleball Hub
With its first-of-its-kind indoor facility in Hong Kong, Bay Pickle is not only redefining the boundaries of sport but also the social experience that comes with it. Pickleball’s inclusive nature, with easy access for players of all ages—from 6 to 86—brings people together, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie that transcends traditional athletic pursuits. More than just a sport, pickleball at Bay Pickle is about cultivating lasting connections, both on and off the court.
Riding high on the success of the Causeway Bay launch, exciting plans are underway to open a second indoor pickleball court in Kowloon by the end of 2024! And that is just the beginning—new locations are being explored in Ma On Shan, adding to an ever-growing lineup of 12 courts across Hong Kong, including new courts in a school in Tseung Kwan O. This expansion is all about making pickleball more accessible, bringing the sport to communities across Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area—so get ready for more places to play, compete, and connect.
Albert Fung, Co-founder of Bay Pickle, expressed his excitement for the launch, “The opening is just a beginning. The aim is to elevate pickleball to new heights in Hong Kong and beyond. The academy, facilities, and future expansions are all part of a larger vision to create a thriving pickleball ecosystem that fosters not just athletic skill, but a sense of community and belonging.As Bay Pickle prepares to launch additional courts in Q4 2024, it is poised to solidify its position as the premier destination for pickleball enthusiasts in the region. Embrace the spirit of innovation, connectivity, and athletic prowess as Bay Pickle paves the way for a new era in sports and social engagement in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area.”
Ken Deng, Co-founder of Bay Pickle, shared his vision for the academy, “As someone who has coached at six universities in the Bay Area, I’m passionate about developing young talent across Asia. The academy is designed to be a pipeline for aspiring athletes, and it’s exciting to see students excel in regional and international tournaments.”
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Alex Chan, Founding member of Bay Pickle, shared his vision for how Bay Pickle is redefining the boundaries of sport and social experience, “Our goal is to not only provide top-tier facilities but also to cultivate a community where people can interact, share, and experience the joy of pickleball together. Whether you’re here to compete or just have fun, with over seven years of experience in F&B, I am excited to leverage my expertise to enhance the social dimension of pickleball at Bay pickle. By fostering connections through play, we will create an environment where meaningful relationships flourish enriching the experience for every member of our community.”
Jenny Wan, Founding Member of Bay Pickle, shared her vision for the strategic partnership with Steve Kuhn, “We are deeply honored that Steve has chosen the Bay Pickle team as his first partner in in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area, and we are committed to upholding this trust as we work together to grow the sport in the region. Together, we are not just building courts, but creating a vibrant, inclusive community where everyone—from beginners to seasoned players—can come together and experience the joy of pickleball.”
Bay Pickle Indoor Court: A First in Hong Kong
This September, the newly unveiled Bay Pickle Indoor Court is shaking up the scene in Hong Kong’s vibrant Causeway Bay district, bringing the rapidly growing sport of pickleball right to the city’s doorstep. This cutting-edge facility promises an unmatched pickleball experience, perfect for both casual players looking for fun and competitive athletes hungry for serious action.
Key Highlights of the Bay Pickle Indoor Court:
Size and Location: Spanning 2,000 square feet, the indoor court is conveniently located in the bustling district of Causeway Bay, making it easily accessible for residents and visitors alike. This prime location positions Bay Pickle as the go-to destination for pickleball in the region.
Professional-Grade Facilities: The court features premium flooring designed for optimal play, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for players of all skill levels. The court dimensions adhere to international standards, offering the perfect environment for both casual games and competitive training.
Multi-functional Space: Beyond pickleball, the venue is designed to host a variety of events, including corporate team-building sessions, kids’ birthday parties and family gatherings, workshops and exclusive social gatherings.
With a flexible layout, the space can be customized for different types of events, ensuring a unique and memorable experience for all attendees.
Bar and Lounge Area: The venue also includes a stylish bar and lounge area, where players and guests can relax and enjoy a handpicked selection of drinks and snacks. Whether cooling off after an intense game or simply socializing with fellow pickleball enthusiasts, the bar offers a perfect complement to the sporting experience.
Professional Coaching Team: Bay Pickle is home to a team of experienced and certified coaches, all of whom are passionate about growing the sport in Hong Kong. Personalized training sessions are available for players of all levels, from beginners to advanced athletes. Corporate team-building exercises, group lessons, and private coaching are also available.
Community-Focused Environment: The indoor court is more than just a place to play pickleball; it’s a hub for the pickleball community. Regular events, meetups, and exclusive competitions foster a sense of belonging and camaraderie among players. From monthly social events to drop-in classes for beginners, the court is designed to be a welcoming space for everyone.
Bay Pickle Academy: Developing Future Champions
Bay Pickle Academy is dedicated to helping players take their game to the next level. The professional training regimen is designed to equip students with the skills necessary to become true champions. From perfecting drives and dinking to mastering drops and more, the dynamic curriculum covers all essential techniques. As players immerse themselves in the program, they will not only sharpen their technical skills but also enhance their overall athleticism and build confidence. The academy provides a supportive, growth-focused environment where athletes are encouraged to continually push their limits and achieve new milestones.
To cater to different interests and skill levels, two distinct programs are available. The Recreational Program is tailored for kids who want to have fun while learning the game in a relaxed, engaging setting. For those seeking a more competitive edge, the Elite Program is designed for U16 players with aspirations of professional play. Elite participants may even have the opportunity to represent the Pickleball Association of Hong Kong and compete for the championship at the 2024 WPC Hong Kong, scheduled to take place in Discovery Bay in November 2024. This prestigious event will bring together top players from across the region, paving the way for future success on the competitive stage.
Bay Pickle Club: Bay Pickle Membership Program
Pickleball enthusiasts could immerse themselves in the sport through the Bay Pickle Club, a unique, members-only experience. Membership benefits include monthly social events and pickleball meetups, drop-in pickleball classes for beginners and collaborations with local NGOs to promote wellness through the sport etc. They will enjoy exclusive access to an expanding network of pickleball venues and a robust community of players.
Development Roadmap: A Vision for Growth
Bay Sports is committed to expanding its brand footprint and community engagement through several strategic initiatives:
1. Digital Transformation and Innovation
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A Web 3.0 and NFT strategy is being developed to create immersive digital experiences, enhancing fan and player engagement. This includes the development of digital collectibles and other interactive elements to connect with the community in new ways.
2. Sustainability and Corporate Partnerships
Bay Sports remains committed to aligning with ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) goals. Corporate partnerships are being explored to promote sustainability initiatives, ensuring that business growth benefits both the community and the environment.
The future is bright for Bay Pickle and the pickleball community in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area. With expansion plans, digital innovations, and a commitment to inclusivity, Bay Pickle is poised to become the largest Pickleball Social Club in the region. Public are invited to join in celebrating this exciting new chapter for Bay Pickle and the launch of Hong Kong’s premier indoor pickleball facility.
Bay Pickle
Address: Shop 1-2, G/F, The Consonance, 23 Jupiter Street, Tin Hau, Hong Kong
Get the latest updates and information on the rapidly growing sport of pickleball, specifically designed for the senior community aged 50+. Check out Sleeve’s Senior Pickleball Report on YouTube to stay informed and up-to-date with the ever-changing world of pickleball. Join the community and stay ahead of the game. https://stmdailynews.com/sleeves-senior-pickleball-report/
Workers who are in frequent contact with potentially sick animals are at high risk of bird flu infection.
Costfoto/NurPhoto via Getty ImagesRon Barrett, Macalester College
Disease forecasts are like weather forecasts: We cannot predict the finer details of a particular outbreak or a particular storm, but we can often identify when these threats are emerging and prepare accordingly.
The viruses that cause avian influenza are potential threats to global health. Recent animal outbreaks from a subtype called H5N1 have been especially troubling to scientists. Although human infections from H5N1 have been relatively rare, there have been a little more than 900 known cases globally since 2003 – nearly 50% of these cases have been fatal – a mortality rate about 20 times higher than that of the 1918 flu pandemic. If the worst of these rare infections ever became common among people, the results could be devastating.
Approaching potential disease threats from an anthropological perspective, my colleagues and I recently published a book called “Emerging Infections: Three Epidemiological Transitions from Prehistory to the Present” to examine the ways human behaviors have shaped the evolution of infectious diseases, beginning with their first major emergence in the Neolithic period and continuing for 10,000 years to the present day.
Viewed from this deep time perspective, it becomes evident that H5N1 is displaying a common pattern of stepwise invasion from animal to human populations. Like many emerging viruses, H5N1 is making incremental evolutionary changes that could allow it to transmit between people. The periods between these evolutionary steps present opportunities to slow this process and possibly avert a global disaster.
Spillover and viral chatter
When a disease-causing pathogen such as a flu virus is already adapted to infect a particular animal species, it may eventually evolve the ability to infect a new species, such as humans, through a process called spillover.
Spillover is a tricky enterprise. To be successful, the pathogen must have the right set of molecular “keys” compatible with the host’s molecular “locks” so it can break in and out of host cells and hijack their replication machinery. Because these locks often vary between species, the pathogen may have to try many different keys before it can infect an entirely new host species. For instance, the keys a virus successfully uses to infect chickens and ducks may not work on cattle and humans. And because new keys can be made only through random mutation, the odds of obtaining all the right ones are very slim.
Given these evolutionary challenges, it is not surprising that pathogens often get stuck partway into the spillover process. A new variant of the pathogen might be transmissible from an animal only to a person who is either more susceptible due to preexisting illness or more likely to be infected because of extended exposure to the pathogen.
Even then, the pathogen might not be able to break out of its human host and transmit to another person. This is the current situation with H5N1. For the past year, there have been many animal outbreaks in a variety of wild and domestic animals, especially among birds and cattle. But there have also been a small number of human cases, most of which have occurred among poultry and dairy workers who worked closely with large numbers of infected animals.
Pathogen transmission can be modeled in three stages. In Stage 1, the pathogen can be transmitted only between nonhuman animals. In stage 2, the pathogen can also be transmitted to humans, but it is not yet adapted for human-to-human transmission. In Stage 3, the pathogen is fully capable of human-to-human transmission.Ron Barrett, CC BY-SA
Epidemiologists call this situation viral chatter: when human infections occur only in small, sporadic outbreaks that appear like the chattering signals of coded radio communications – tiny bursts of unclear information that may add up to a very ominous message. In the case of viral chatter, the message would be a human pandemic.
Sporadic, individual cases of H5N1 among people suggest that human-to-human transmission may likely occur at some point. But even so, no one knows how long or how many steps it would take for this to happen.
Influenza viruses evolve rapidly. This is partly because two or more flu varieties can infect the same host simultaneously, allowing them to reshuffle their genetic material with one another to produce entirely new varieties.
Genetic reshuffling – aka antigenic shift – between a highly pathogenic strain of avian influenza and a strain of human influenza could create a new strain that’s even more infectious among people.Eunsun Yoo/Biomolecules & Therapeutics, CC BY-NC
These reshuffling events are more likely to occur when there is a diverse range of host species. So it is particularly concerning that H5N1 is known to have infected at least 450 different animal species. It may not be long before the viral chatter gives way to larger human epidemics.
Reshaping the trajectory
The good news is that people can take basic measures to slow down the evolution of H5N1 and potentially reduce the lethality of avian influenza should it ever become a common human infection. But governments and businesses will need to act.
People can start by taking better care of food animals. The total weight of the world’s poultry is greater than all wild bird species combined. So it is not surprising that the geography of most H5N1 outbreaks track more closely with large-scale housing and international transfers of live poultry than with the nesting and migration patterns of wild aquatic birds. Reducing these agricultural practices could help curb the evolution and spread of H5N1.
Large-scale commercial transport of domesticated animals is associated with the evolution and spread of new influenza varieties.ben/Flickr, CC BY-SA
People can also take better care of themselves. At the individual level, most people can vaccinate against the common, seasonal influenza viruses that circulate every year. At first glance this practice may not seem connected to the emergence of avian influenza. But in addition to preventing seasonal illness, vaccination against common human varieties of the virus will reduce the odds of it mixing with avian varieties and giving them the traits they need for human-to-human transmission.
At the population level, societies can work together to improve nutrition and sanitation in the world’s poorest populations. History has shown that better nutrition increases overall resistance to new infections, and better sanitation reduces how much and how often people are exposed to new pathogens. And in today’s interconnected world, the disease problems of any society will eventually spread to every society.
For more than 10,000 years, human behaviors have shaped the evolutionary trajectories of infectious diseases. Knowing this, people can reshape these trajectories for the better.Ron Barrett, Professor of Anthropology, Macalester College
This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
Is Chipotle Closing All Its Restaurants After Filing for Bankruptcy? Here’s What We Know
Rumors of Chipotle filing for bankruptcy and closing locations stemmed from a misreported article about a spinoff restaurant. Chipotle confirmed these claims are false and plans to open 345 new restaurants, ensuring customers it remains open for business.
Recent rumors circulating on social media have left many Chipotle fans in a state of panic, with claims that the beloved restaurant chain is filing for bankruptcy and set to close all its locations. Let’s set the record straight and find out what’s really happening.
According to KTLA, the frenzy began when the Union Rayo media outlet published a story on March 20 about the closure of a Chipotle spinoff restaurant called Farmesa Fresh Eatery. Unfortunately, the article mistakenly included a photo of Chipotle, and this misinformation quickly spread like wildfire across social platforms.
Chipotle is famous for its generously-sized burritos, bowls, quesadillas, and tacos, proudly serving organic ingredients at nearly 4,000 locations worldwide. Unsurprisingly, the rumors sent burrito lovers into a frenzy. One social media user expressed disbelief, questioning, “How is Chipotle going bankrupt when I get a bowl with extra chicken and guac every day????”
Amidst the chaos, another user humorously suggested, “They’re talking about Chipotle closing, I’ll chain my wrist to the door don’t play with me,” highlighting the deep connection many have to the restaurant.
In response to the widespread concerns, Chipotle issued a statement to clarify the situation. A spokesperson for the chain told Good Morning America, “The claim that Chipotle is closing restaurants is false. The false information stemmed from an inaccurate online article confusing Chipotle with a venture it tested in 2023. The story has since been corrected.”
Furthermore, as a testament to their growth, Chipotle plans to open 345 new restaurants this year. This expansion clearly indicates that the chain is on solid ground and committed to serving its loyal customers for years to come.
So, if you were worried about your next burrito fix, rest easy! Chipotle is not closing its doors, and the rumors can safely be put to rest. Keep enjoying your favorite meals, and stay tuned for those new locations popping up soon!
Get the latest updates and information on the rapidly growing sport of pickleball, specifically designed for the senior community aged 50+. Check out Sleeve’s Senior Pickleball Report on YouTube to stay informed and up-to-date with the ever-changing world of pickleball. Join the community and stay ahead of the game.
Dolores Raphael is a dedicated writer and blogger focused on health, fitness, and everyday living. She shares practical tips and inspiring insights to help others lead a balanced and vibrant lifestyle. one of her passions is Pickleball.
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Val Kilmer at Cannes in 2005. Image Credit: Georges Biard
LOS ANGELES (AP) — In a heartbreaking loss to the entertainment world, Val Kilmer, the intense and versatile actor known for iconic roles in films such as “Top Gun,” “Batman Forever,” and “The Doors,” has passed away at the age of 65. Kilmer died on Tuesday night in Los Angeles, surrounded by his family and friends, as confirmed by his daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, in an email to The Associated Press.
Kilmer’s death was attributed to pneumonia, following a long and courageous battle with throat cancer that he had been diagnosed with in 2014, a struggle that led to two tracheotomies.
Reflecting on his tumultuous yet inspiring journey, Kilmer shared in the documentary “Val” (2021), “I have behaved poorly. I have behaved bravely. I have behaved bizarrely to some. I deny none of this and have no regrets because I have lost and found parts of myself that I never knew existed. And I am blessed.” His words are a testament to his remarkable resilience, artistry, and unique perspective on life.
Val Kilmer
Kilmer was a prodigy in the performing arts, becoming the youngest actor ever admitted to the prestigious Juilliard School when he enrolled in 1981. His breakthrough came with the 1984 spy spoof “Top Secret!” and he quickly rose to fame with a series of successful films, including the beloved comedy “Real Genius” in 1985. He showcased his comedic talents in later works, such as “MacGruber” and “Kiss Kiss Bang Bang.”
The pinnacle of Kilmer’s career arguably occurred in the early 1990s, where he solidified his status as a leading man. Among his most memorable roles were Doc Holliday in “Tombstone” (1993), Elvis Presley in “True Romance,” and the cunning bank-robbing demolition expert in Michael Mann’s “Heat” (1995), alongside cinematic legends Al Pacino and Robert De Niro.
Despite the acclaim, Kilmer’s career was not without its challenges. A 1996 Entertainment Weekly cover story famously dubbed him “The Man Hollywood Loves to Hate,” citing conflicts with directors and a reputation for being difficult on set. Notable figures, including directors John Frankenheimer and Joel Schumacher, described his work as challenging; however, many others, like director D. J. Caruso, defended Kilmer’s commitment to depth and character immersion.
After delivering memorable performances in adult dramas, Kilmer took a slight detour, engaging in smaller films, such as David Mamet’s “Spartan,” and portraying the troubled 1970s adult film star John Holmes in “Wonderland” (2003). He also embraced the stage with a one-man show, “Citizen Twain,” where he explored the complex life of Mark Twain.
Hailing from the Chatsworth neighborhood of Los Angeles, Kilmer’s early life was marred by tragedy with the loss of his younger brother, Wesley, to a seizure — a poignant event that would forever resonate with him. Throughout his life, Kilmer sought inspiration from his brother, often reflecting on the artistic potential he believed Wesley would have achieved.
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As a multi-talented artist, Kilmer not only acted but also wrote poetry, with two published collections, including “My Edens After Burns.” In 2012, he received a Grammy nomination for his spoken word album, “The Mark of Zorro.” He continued to explore various creative outlets and was known for his dedication to visual art and his Christian Science faith.
His personal life saw relationships with notable personalities, including singer Cher, and he was previously married to actor Joanne Whalley, with whom he shares two children, Mercedes and Jack.
In a final testament to his remarkable life and career, Kilmer asserted, “I have no regrets. I’ve witnessed and experienced miracles.” Val Kilmer leaves behind a rich legacy, characterized by his complex characters and deep artistic contributions that will forever resonate with audiences. The film industry has lost a true icon, and his presence will be deeply missed.
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Rod: A creative force, blending words, images, and flavors. Blogger, writer, filmmaker, and photographer. Cooking enthusiast with a sci-fi vision. Passionate about his upcoming series and dedicated to TNC Network. Partnered with Rebecca Washington for a shared journey of love and art.
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Health and wellness pioneer ranked first in Personal Care and Wellness Category and one of Top 50 overall among 3000+ that applied CHANHASSEN, Minn., March 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Life Time (NYSE: LTH), the […]
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Ron Barrett, Professor of Anthropology, Macalester College
This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
