Captain’s Harbor a community of islanders within the island

By PAULETTE LeBlANC pleblanc@breezenewspapers com

The residents of Captain's Harbor in Bokeelia liken the close-knit community in which they live to the nature of Pine Island, as though Captain's Harbor is an island within the island

The annual pickleball tournament, beloved by residents, is only one of the events they enjoy together Having had the 2023 tournament two weeks ago, resident Yvonne White said she really enjoys playing each morning, as well as playing at the annual event, which just celebrated its fifth year

“All levels play, from beginners to those who are really good players. We have teams who play together as partners, so good players play with beginners, too We named it the Jane Perry I n t e r n a t i o n a l P i c k l e b a l l T o u r n a m e n t , ” White said, explaining that Perry, who is from Canada, first started the tournament

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White said she never played pickleball or any other sport until about three years ago, when Perry asked her to join in the fun

“Jane is really good at getting people to do things,” White said, emphasizing that you do not need be athletic to play

White explained that playing pickleball is a fantastic way to have a great time while getting some exercise with other community members

While the games at Captain's Harbor are intended just for the residents, White said it’s not likely they’d turn anyone away From November to May, she said they have at least one event per month for residents

“This is a great community Our management company has said that our association is different from every other, because we are so closely knit You get a project going and at least three or four

See CAPTAIN’S HARBOR, page 14

PROVIDED BY YVONNE WHITE

Above, Ted Stricker, 81, is the oldest pickleball player in the community, and Lauria Sharrar, 56, is the youngest. Top, pickleball players competing in the tournament.

According to Welch, the event was important in showing support to Pine Island and its businesses, as well as being a great example of the spirit that resides on Pine Island

“Pine Islanders of all ages were taking part and having fun,” Welch said

In spite of Hurricane Ian, Welch said, though the island looks a little bit different, it’s important to note the same spirit was alive and well at this traditional and beloved island event.

“It was a great mix of all ages from the 5 year olds throwing mullet to the old men that you could hardly believe they could stand up, but they were throwing mullet It was a great turnout and a great fun day That’s what the chamber is all about Making sure that our island and its businesses had people come out to support them,” Welch said

Musical entertainment by RJ Howsen a n d f r i e n d s w a s e s p e c i a l l y w e l c o m e , Welch said, as the chamber brought in someone from off-island, in order to have something a bit different for the event

“He seemed to be well received and he certainly had a great sound,” Welch said

See CROWD, page 14