Steve Kuhn Partners with Bay Pickle to Transform Hong Kong Pickleball
- 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.”
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
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
Opening Hours: From Monday to Sunday, 7am to 11pm
Enquiry: +852- 4608-3998
https://www.instagram.com/baypickle
#BayPickleCausewayBay #BayPickle #Pickleball #PickleballForAll #Sportstainment @baypickle
SOURCE Bay Pickle
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/
Local News
Santa Ana Police Seek Woman Accused of Intentionally Running Over Puppy
Santa Ana police are asking for the public’s help identifying a woman accused of intentionally running over and killing a puppy with a minivan on September 8.
Last Updated on September 30, 2026 by Daily News Staff
SANTA ANA, Calif. — Santa Ana police are asking for the public’s help identifying a woman accused of deliberately running over and killing a puppy after leaving the animal in a residential street earlier this month.
The disturbing incident occurred at approximately 9:15 a.m. on September 8, 2026, in the 900 block of West Park Lane, near 926 W. Park Lane. Police said the dog, described as a pit bull mix puppy, was later found dead in the street.
Investigators subsequently obtained home-surveillance footage showing an older-model green or blue Honda Odyssey minivan stopped along the street.
According to police, the female driver opened the vehicle’s door and placed the puppy on the ground. The puppy went underneath the minivan, and the woman then allegedly placed food on the street near the driver’s side of the vehicle.
As the puppy approached the food, the driver moved the minivan forward. Police said the vehicle’s rear driver’s-side tire went over the puppy and that the minivan remained stopped on the animal for approximately 15 seconds before the driver drove away.
A nearby resident later told officers that they had seen the minivan in the area and believed the puppy had been deliberately run over. Police and animal services personnel spent several weeks canvassing the neighborhood and eventually located surveillance footage that authorities said corroborated the witness’s account.
Police searching for driver
Investigators have not been able to obtain a readable license plate from the surveillance footage.
As of September 30, Santa Ana police were seeking information that could help identify either the woman or the older green or blue Honda Odyssey seen in the video.
Anyone with information about the case is being asked to contact Santa Ana police at 714-245-8378.
The case comes two years after another highly publicized animal-cruelty incident in Santa Ana involving a woman accused of intentionally running over a 2-month-old Rottweiler puppy in August 2024. In that case, the puppy survived after emergency treatment, and the suspect subsequently turned herself in to police.
STM Daily News will update this story if authorities announce an identification, arrest or charges in the case.
Sure and Related Links
Los Angeles Times — “Santa Ana Police search for woman who appears to deliberately run over puppy in disturbing video”
Los Angeles Times report
CBS Los Angeles — “Santa Ana police seek minivan driver who allegedly intentionally ran over puppy”
CBS Los Angeles report
NBC Los Angeles — “Female driver wanted for ‘intentionally’ running over a puppy in Santa Ana”
NBC Los Angeles report
MyNewsLA — “Santa Ana Police Seek Help Woman Who Fatally Struck Puppy”
MyNewsLA report
Business and Finance
Handshake Launches Free AI Skills Studio to Help Job Seekers Prepare for an AI-Driven Workplace
Handshake has launched AI Skills Studio, a free project-based learning hub designed to help students and job seekers develop practical AI skills and demonstrate what they can do to prospective employers.
As artificial intelligence becomes a bigger part of everyday work, knowing how to actually use AI tools may become just as important as knowing what they can do.
Career platform Handshake is betting on that shift with the launch of AI Skills Studio, a free learning hub designed to give students and job seekers practical experience using AI through short, hands-on projects.
Handshake’s AI Skills Studio aims to help job seekers build practical, hands-on AI experience as artificial intelligence becomes increasingly important across the workplace. Image: Rod Washington and Firefly.
Announced September 22, AI Skills Studio offers project-based learning “missions” that generally take between 10 and 45 minutes to complete. Instead of focusing primarily on lectures or traditional coursework, participants work directly with AI and technology tools to create something tangible.
Projects can include automated workflows, software, interactive games, data dashboards, portfolios, and tools aimed at preparing users for jobs in areas such as sales and marketing.
The program was developed with a broad group of technology companies and educational partners, including Clay, Figma, Gamma, Google, Lovable, Notion, OpenAI, Replit, Salesforce, Southern New Hampshire University and Vercel.
Turning AI knowledge into something employers can see
One of the more notable aspects of AI Skills Studio is its emphasis on demonstrating skills rather than simply listing them on a résumé.
After completing a mission, learners can add their projects to their Handshake profiles and potentially feature them in the platform’s AI Showcase. Participants also receive verified skill badges intended to provide employers with evidence that they have applied particular AI skills.
That approach reflects a growing challenge for both applicants and businesses: simply saying someone is familiar with artificial intelligence doesn’t necessarily show an employer what that person can accomplish with it.
“Employers know they need people who can work effectively with AI, but a résumé can’t tell you what someone is truly capable of,” Handshake Chief Operating Officer Jon Stull said in announcing the program.
For job seekers, that could make small AI projects increasingly useful as part of a professional portfolio, particularly for people entering the workforce without years of experience.
Students see AI skills becoming increasingly important
Handshake says its own research indicates that many students recognize the importance of AI but don’t necessarily believe their education has kept pace.
According to the company’s 2026 Network Trends Report, 58% of graduating seniors surveyed said they would need a stronger understanding of AI to succeed in the workplace. Only 28%, however, said AI had been meaningfully integrated into their educational programs.
Those figures come from Handshake’s own research, but they highlight a broader issue confronting workers, schools and businesses as generative AI moves rapidly into professional environments.
Julia Stiglitz, Handshake’s Chief Education and Workforce Officer, said people shouldn’t necessarily wait for the technology—or the workplace—to stop changing before beginning to develop AI skills.
“The best thing people can do is start learning and start building,” Stiglitz said.
Learning with tools used in the workplace
Rather than teaching AI only as a theoretical subject, the Studio is designed around tools people could encounter professionally.
OpenAI, for example, is participating with projects involving ChatGPT and Codex. Google is contributing training involving its AI tools and workflows, while other partners bring experience in areas ranging from software development and design to productivity and enterprise technology.
An AI Skills Instructor provides learners with guidance and feedback while they complete projects.
Handshake says connecting those projects directly to a career profile could also give employers another way to evaluate applicants—allowing recruiters to look at what candidates have actually built instead of relying entirely on degrees, résumés or self-reported skills.
AI could change what “experience” means
The development is especially interesting for students, career changers and early-career workers.
Traditionally, gaining experience has often created a familiar problem: employers want applicants with experience, while applicants need employment opportunities to acquire that experience.
Project-based AI training doesn’t eliminate that problem, and completing a short AI exercise isn’t the same as performing a job professionally. But projects can provide another way for someone to demonstrate curiosity, technical familiarity and the ability to apply new tools to a specific task.
As AI becomes embedded in more occupations, portfolios demonstrating how someone uses the technology could become an increasingly useful complement to conventional credentials.
That doesn’t mean everyone needs to become an AI engineer. The more immediate workplace skill may simply be understanding how to use AI effectively within an existing profession—whether that’s marketing, design, software development, sales, research or business operations.
Handshake’s new program is another indication that career preparation is beginning to adjust to that reality.
AI Skills Studio is available free through Handshake’s website and mobile app.
Source: Handshake press release, September 22, 2026. Statistics regarding graduating seniors and AI education are attributed to Handshake’s 2026 Network Trends Report.
Source and Related Links
Handshake — Introducing AI Skills Studio: AI Skills Studio launch and overview — Details the program, project-based missions, participating partners and how completed projects can be displayed to employers.
Handshake — What is AI Skills Studio?: AI Skills Studio Help Center — Official information on how the program works, eligibility, missions and access.
Handshake — Class of 2026 Graduation Report: AI and the Workforce Ahead — Supports the article’s statistics that 58% of graduating seniors say they need stronger AI skills while only 28% say AI has been meaningfully integrated into their academic program. Handshake
Handshake — Workforce Outlook: Class of 2026 in the AI Economy — Additional research on AI adoption, employer demand and attitudes toward AI among graduating students.
Stay informed. Stay curious. From business and technology to lifestyle, entertainment, transportation, science and the stories shaping everyday life, STM Daily News brings you news, insight and useful information that matters.
Discover more stories at STM Daily News: https://stmdailynews.com
Transportation
LAX SkyLink Delayed Again, With Passenger Service Now Targeted for January 2027
LAX SkyLink has been delayed again. The long-awaited airport train is now targeting passenger service in January 2027 as final testing and certification continue.
The long-awaited airport train is nearly complete, but additional testing and certification have pushed its anticipated debut beyond 2026.
LOS ANGELES — Travelers waiting for Los Angeles International Airport’s long-delayed SkyLink train will apparently have to wait a little longer.
The automated train system, previously expected to begin carrying passengers as early as October 2026, is now being targeted for early January 2027, according to new project disclosures.
LAX Integrated Express Solutions, or LINXS, the consortium responsible for the project, indicated in a September 16 disclosure that passenger service could begin around January 6, 2027, if remaining work proceeds successfully. However, LINXS also cautioned that additional delays remain possible.
Importantly, January 6 is not an official opening date announced by Los Angeles World Airports.
LAWA’s official SkyLink website currently says only that the system is in its “final testing and certification phase”and that opening information will be announced when available.
What Happened to the October Opening?
As STM Daily News previously reported, the project had been moving toward a possible October 2026 passenger-service launch.
That timetable has now slipped.
According to the latest project information, SkyLink still must successfully complete several important requirements before passengers can board.
Those include 30 consecutive days of successful testing, an independent review, an assessment by LAWA and completion of a utility agreement involving the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power.
The project’s contractual completion deadline currently stands at December 8, 2026, but LINXS has indicated that additional time may be necessary.
That puts the tentative January 6 passenger-service target roughly one month beyond the current contractual completion deadline.
Those Trains You See Are Still Test Trains
For passengers traveling through LAX, the delay might seem particularly puzzling because SkyLink trains can already be seen moving around the airport.
Those trains aren’t carrying passengers.
LAX says the vehicles are operating throughout the system as part of testing required before passenger service can begin.
The airport’s official SkyLink page specifically warns travelers that any trains currently moving are part of testing and are not in service.
The project is reportedly about 99% complete, meaning the primary infrastructure is essentially in place while testing, certification and remaining agreements continue.
Another Delay in a Long-Running Project
Construction on the 2.25-mile automated train system began in 2019, and passenger service was originally expected to begin in 2023.
That opening has repeatedly slipped as the approximately $3.3 billion project encountered construction issues, technical challenges and disputes between LAWA and LINXS.
The relationship between the two sides has also become increasingly contentious.
LINXS sued the City of Los Angeles earlier this year, alleging that actions by LAWA contributed to delays and additional costs. LAWA has said completing a safe and reliable SkyLink remains its priority.
The financial stakes are also increasing. Bondholders recently agreed to consolidate an earlier October deadline into the December 8 project deadline, giving the consortium additional time to complete the remaining work.
Why SkyLink Still Matters
Despite the delays, SkyLink remains one of the most consequential pieces of LAX’s massive modernization program.
The free, all-electric automated train will operate along a 2.25-mile elevated guideway with six stations.
Three stations will serve the airport’s Central Terminal Area, while others will connect passengers with parking, rental cars, ground transportation and the LAX/Metro Transit Center.
That last connection is especially significant.
The Transit Center provides access to Metro’s C and K Lines. Until SkyLink opens, however, passengers using Metro must continue transferring to shuttle buses to reach the airport terminals.
Once operational, SkyLink is designed to eliminate that final shuttle connection.
LAX says the train will operate 24 hours a day, with trains approximately every two minutes during peak periods. The trip from one end of the system to the other is expected to take about 10 minutes, and passengers won’t need a ticket, fare or app to ride.
Could SkyLink Be Running Before the Super Bowl?
The January target carries added significance because Super Bowl LXI is scheduled for February 14, 2027, at SoFi Stadium.
If SkyLink begins passenger operations around January 6, the system would have just over a month of regular service before another major international influx of visitors arrives in Los Angeles.
But after several missed opening targets, January 6 should be viewed as just that — a target.
LINXS itself has warned that there is no assurance passenger service won’t be delayed further.
LAWA, meanwhile, says it will not compromise the testing necessary to ensure the automated system operates safely and reliably.
The Finish Line Moves Again
For LAX travelers, SkyLink has become a familiar sight: sleek automated trains moving above airport traffic but carrying nobody.
The latest delay doesn’t change the project’s ultimate purpose. When SkyLink finally opens, travelers will have a direct connection between LAX terminals, Metro rail, rental cars, parking and other ground transportation without relying on many of the shuttle buses currently circulating through the airport.
But the project’s history also offers a reason for caution.
October 2026 is effectively off the table. January 6, 2027 is now the contractor’s target. And LAWA has yet to announce an official opening date.
After a project originally expected to welcome passengers in 2023, perhaps the most important milestone will be the simplest one:
The day LAX finally removes the word “testing” from those trains.
STM Daily News will continue following the LAX SkyLink project and will provide an update when Los Angeles World Airports announces an official passenger-service date.
Source & Further Information
For current official information, visit the LAX SkyLink project page.
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