Milton Keynes Ladies Charity Table Tennis Tournament Raises £650 for Breast Cancer Now

On September 6, the Milton Keynes Table Tennis Centre successfully hosted the second annual women's charity table tennis tournament. The event was organized by Julie Snowdon, a Table Tennis England staff member and secretary of the centre. Fourteen women took part, raising £650 for Breast Cancer Now and collecting more than 100 used bras for recycling under the Against Breast Cancer campaign. According to the organizers, the tournament focused on fun, fair play, and friendship. The players went through two group rounds, then entered the main event and a consolation final for those who lost earlier. This format allowed players of all levels to compete together and encouraged beginners to take part. Most of the participants came from the centre's monthly ladies-only sessions, which have built a supportive women's sports community. Julie Snowdon said the tournament was not just a chance for women to meet and exercise, but also an opportunity to spread awareness about breast cancer. The bra collection initiative turned used bras into recycling resources, reducing waste and raising funds for breast cancer research. The money raised was donated directly to Breast Cancer Now, a leading UK charity supporting patients and research. Notably, the tournament was not part of the ITTF or WTT system. It was a purely grassroots event run by the local club. Although there were no official rankings or titles, the true highlight was the spirit of sport and togetherness. Many women attended simply to socialise and learn, while others showed impressive playing ability. The organizers were pleasantly surprised by the success of the second consecutive year. This event reflects a positive trend in UK table tennis clubs: more and more organised activities for women are emerging. Through simple training sessions, women become more confident to compete and do charity work. The tournament cleverly combined sport with social responsibility, creating a replicable model. The organizers hope to make it an annual event, building lasting habits of exercise and community contribution. Those interested can still donate via Julie Snowdon's Just Giving page. Additionally, the regular ladies' table tennis session at the centre will take place on November 1, from 10 am to 12 pm. It is a great opportunity for local women to try the sport, make new friends, and join a meaningful community. The event is open to all levels and requires no special experience. In summary, the Milton Keynes Ladies Charity Table Tennis Tournament is a heartwarming example of community sport. It places no pressure on performance, ignores skill barriers, and focuses on joy, unity, and fair play. There, victory is not defined by winning shots, but by how these women share responsibility for society. Fourteen participants may be a small number, but the awareness and grassroots impact they generated is truly commendable.