The Beach is Back: AFK Beach Volleyball Returns to Canary Wharf after 4-Year Hiatus – 07.09.23

After a break of four long years, AFK Beach Volleyball is thrilled to announce its triumphant return to Canary Wharf! This summer, Canary Wharf’s Canada Square Park will be transformed into a vibrant beach oasis, complete with two full-sized volleyball courts and an impressive 200 tonnes of sand, all in support of a noble cause – raising vital funds for children and young people with disabilities.

The courts are open to all, offering pay-to-play sessions for enthusiasts to hone their beach volleyball skills in the sand or challenge friends and colleagues to friendly lunchtime competitions. What’s more, this year marks the highly anticipated return of the Beach Volleyball Championships, where teams from across Canary Wharf will compete for the prestigious title of AFK Beach Champions.

Booking a court costs £12.50 per person per hour, providing sole use of the court and volleyballs. A minimum of four players is required, with booking secured by a £50 deposit, followed by payment of the balance for the full number of participants at your chosen session.

“We’re ecstatic to announce the return of AFK Beach Volleyball to Canary Wharf. This event has always been about fun, camaraderie, and making a difference for children and young people with disabilities. We can’t wait to see the courts filled with participants and spectators, enjoying the summer vibes while supporting a worthy cause,” said Lyn Prodger at AFK Beach Volleyball.

AFK Beach Volleyball Charity Championships at Canary Wharf has always been a favourite event among top UK beach and volleyball athletes. In previous years, renowned athletes such as Paralympian Sitting Volleyball Captain Rob Richardson, London 2012 Team GB Captain Ben Pipes, Chris Gregory, Phil Smith, Vicky Palmer, and Jess Grimson have graced the sands.

Beach volleyball has surged in popularity across London in recent years, with numerous councils building courts to their boroughs. The event’s unique setting amid the cityscape of Canary Wharf adds an extra layer of charm and excitement.

SideOut director, Alex Chevau, exclaimed, “Bringing beach volleyball to Canary Wharf is amazing – it’s always good to see everyone so excited about the sport and out in the sun and on the sand, in the city.”

4 – 28 September, Canada Square Park, Canary Wharf, E14 5AH

Click here for full details of AFK Beach Vollyball at Canary Wharf

ENDS

For further information, please contact:

Jessie McCullough
AFK
E: jessie.mccullough@afkcharity.org

Notes to Editors

Beach volleyball is family-friendly, suits all ages and abilities and for those who haven’t played before or want to brush up on their skills, professional coaches will be on hand to help.

* Maximise the impact of your lunch break – work your legs, bum and upper body. An hour’s game is said to burn around 500* calories. Based on a 68kg female – www.fitnessmagazine.com/blogs/fitstop/2011/08/05/fitness/burn-calories-at-the-beach

Dates: 4 – 28 September

Venue: Canada Square Park, Canary Wharf, E14 5AH

  • Free to come and watch.
  • If you fancy a quick game, simply book online at https://www.afkcharity.org/events/beach23, or just turn up and play!
  • Slots are available from 8am – 9pm every day, £12.50 per hour per person.
  • If you want to arrange a day tournament, courts can be hired privately throughout the three-week tenancy. Email the team at beach@afkcharity.org
  • Coaches cost an additional £40 per hour if required
  • Local schools can use the courts for free during the day, subject to pre-booking and availability.
  • Games will take place whatever the weather.

Key Highlights of the Residency Include:

Elite Weekend Tournament featuring premium players from across Europe

Corporate Tournament where top firms challenge each other outside of the office

The event welcomes players of all levels, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a complete beginner. It’s an opportunity to enjoy volleyball before work, during your lunch break, or in the evenings. You can also use it as a fantastic team-building activity.

During the three-week event, various business-to-business tournaments will take place, offering a dose of healthy competition and networking opportunities.

Join thousands of city dwellers for a thrilling team-building beach volleyball experience. It’s time to hit the sand and make a difference.

About AFK

For over 30 years, London charity, AFK, has supported thousands of young people with disabilities to reach their potential.

AFK supports and empowers young disabled people and promotes an independent lifestyle by providing employment and training opportunities, as well as equipment unavailable on the NHS, such as specially adapted bikes and trikes. www.afkcharity.org

About AFK Beach Volleyball

AFK Beach Volleyball is a charity event that combines the excitement of beach volleyball with the mission to raise funds for children and young people with disabilities. The event has a rich history of bringing together athletes, professionals, and the community for a common cause while enjoying the thrill of beach volleyball. AFK Beach Volleyball takes pride in creating an inclusive and fun atmosphere that transcends physical abilities, making it a must-attend event in the heart of Canary Wharf.

About Canary Wharf Group

Canary Wharf Group (CWG) is the developer of the largest urban regeneration project in Europe. CWG develops, manages and currently owns interests in approximately 9 million square feet of mixed-use space and over 1,100 Build to Rent apartments. CWG is a large sustainable developer in the UK and has purchased 100% electricity from renewable sources since 2012 and sent zero waste to landfill since 2009. CWG has created a 24/7 city where people can live, work and thrive on the Canary Wharf estate and enjoy all the benefits: great transport links, access to 16.5 acres of green spaces and waterside living; and a wide range of amenities including an award-winning arts and events programme. Canary Wharf’s retail offering comprises over 70 bars, cafes and restaurants and over 300 shops, including 8 grocery stores, pharmacies and health clubs all within 15 minutes’ walk.

www.canarywharf.com
LinkedIn: @CanaryWharfGroup
Instagram: @canarywharflondon
Twitter: @CanaryWharfGrp / @Level39CW