Irene D’Aloisio, Publicity

It’s been a banner month for Jo Anne Burr, 82, and Beverly Shalin, 82. Both of these terrific pickleball players have won gold and silver medals at tournaments around the country. And both of these champions are members of our very own Sun Lakes Pickleball Club Cottonwood.

The USAPA Nationals were held in Casa Grande in November and Bev and Jo Anne took silver in the Women’s 80 Plus Doubles. Bev also played in the 80 Plus Mixed Doubles and took gold. And she’s not done yet! Bev also won a gold medal in the Women’s 80 Plus Doubles at the Huntsman World Senior Games held in October in St. George, Utah.

When asked how she does it, Bev said, “Never stop playing sports. If your body will let you, just play, play, play.” And for Jo Anne? She says she has a competitive spirit that keeps her going and being a former tennis player helps. And she just loves being outside there on the courts. And that is exactly how the 80 plus year-olds won gold and silver medals. Attitude and fortitude!

And it seems that both Bev and Jo Anne agree that pickleball is an enjoyable way to stay healthy. Just watch them sometime! You can find them on the pickleball courts at Cottonwood. And congratulations, Jo Anne and Bev, on your wins! You’re an inspiration to us all.