On Saturday, July 24th the basketball courts at Fairgrounds Park bustled with activity as participants came from all over the city to compete in the 5th annual Fairgrounds Park 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament. This event, originally founded by former State Senator Jeff Smith, is being carried on this year by 21st Ward Alderman Antonio French and State Representative Jamilah Nasheed.
In addition to the 3-on-3 tournament, the day included a large community fair with free health screenings, school supplies, a raffle with prizes, food and drinks. Thanks to the generosity of a number of corporate sponsors, including Purina, Pi Restaurant, Six Flags St. Louis and the Cardinals Care Initiative, prizes included everything from restaurant gift cards and bikes to free tickets to Six Flags and Cardinals games. Attendees were also able to take advantage of free vision and healthcare screenings.
“This event highlights the best of our community,” said 21st Ward Alderman Antonio French. “A day of physical activity, health, and family fun in one of the city’s best parks breathes new life into our neighborhoods.”
“I think this event is so powerful and popular, not only because it offers a safe environment for kids to play basketball, but also because, with the food, music, raffle, and community fair, it really has something for everyone to enjoy,” said tournament coordinator Kailey Burger. “The ability to help so many people in one place on one day is the reason I continue to volunteer year after year.”
