If you’ve never heard of a Tennis Calcutta, don’t worry you’re not alone. It’s part tennis tournament, part auction, part social hour, and all-around good fun for a great cause.
This fall, BTTC is hosting Swing and Sips: a Tennis Calcutta Fundraiser for the Arthritis Foundation—and we’re inviting everyone to join us for an evening of friendly competition, lively bidding, delicious snacks, and wine.
The Vibe
Think of it as a mix between a charity auction, a tennis match, and a party. Guests get to bid on teams of some of the best tennis players around at BTTC, pairing up skill levels to keep things fair (and interesting!). Once the auction wraps, the tournament begins and the team you “own” could end up winning you a prize donated by our event sponsors (valued at over $300!).
Even if you’re not playing, it’s wildly entertaining to watch. Go all in for your favorite players, form instant alliances, and cheer like it’s the US Open!
CALCUTTA 101: How It Works
| Step | What Happens |
| 1️⃣ The Auction | Before matches begin, teams are “auctioned off” to the highest bidder. That’s right—you can own a team! |
| 2️⃣ The Tournament | Some of the BEST players at BTTC compete in fun, competitive matches. Everyone gets a fair shot thanks to balanced pairings and possible handicaps. |
| 3️⃣ The Payouts | All money raised goes to the Arthritis Foundation, and then the “owners” of the top teams win prizes (valued at $300) donated by our sponsors! |
Fun Fact
The “Calcutta” format originated in (you guessed it) Calcutta, India, where it was used for betting on cricket matches. It quickly spread to golf, horse racing, and tennis—anywhere people liked a little friendly wager mixed with their sports.
Supporting a Great Cause
This event isn’t just about competition—it’s about community and giving back. Funds raised during the Calcutta will go directly to support the Arthritis Foundation, helping those living with arthritis lead more active, pain-free lives.
So whether you bid or just sip and spectate, you’re part of something that makes a real difference.
Join the Fun!
Mark your calendars for November 16th and get ready to bid, sip, and cheer!.