To help out a good cause, while enjoying a fun backyard game, dozens of teams took part in the first-ever CornTogether event at Kingston Park in Chatham.
ComeTogetherCK hosted Sunday’s tournament fundraiser, which drew 40 teams and 80 participants in total, playing on boards made by community volunteers.
Many families also came out to watch, as well as stop by the numerous vendors in the park.
“We couldn’t be more thrilled. The main thing we were focusing on was the atmosphere,” Brent Wilken, ComeTogetherCK executive director, said.
“We’ve been struggling with trying to find a way to do a fundraiser that was aligned with our purpose. We’re very happy with how that went. …The diversity that’s in the park right now is remarkable.”
Wilken said that cornhole fits with the community’s agricultural roots and also welcomes all skill levels, making it the perfect choice for an activity.
“It’s the simplest backyard game,” he said. “It’s a game everyone can be a part of playing. And it’s a game everyone can be a part of making.”
Carly Hendricks and her husband, Tyler, were one of the teams.
Tyler said they “started playing while camping” and now take part more seriously, even making their own boards.
Carly expects the popularity will only continue to grow in future years.
“Anybody can play. It’s accessible,” she said. “I think cornhole’s just really taking off.”
ComeTogetherCK is a local non-profit organization dedicated to fostering community unity.
Although the fundraising tally is still to be determined, the money will support the group’s ongoing projects, including The Gift, the future home of the community shop, Takwihleew Pins, community gardens, downtown cleanups and other programs.
Wilken said given the interest, the new tournament will likely continue next year.