Cricket for Cure raises over $20,000 for Alzheimer’s and dementia research

Leesburg, VA – The Cricket for Cure Tournament 2024, a three-day event that concluded on July 28, brought together over 260 young cricketers from across the region.

Held at Bolen and Hanson Park in Leesburg, VA, and Maryland cricket fields, the tournament raised more than $20,000 to support Alzheimer’s and dementia research, reinforcing the event’s mission to unite the community in the fight against these debilitating diseases.

Organized by the non-profit Cricket for Cure, the tournament attracted more than 20 teams competing in four categories, U11, U13, U15, and Vinyl Ball.

The mission of Cricket for Cure is to raise awareness about the growing need for advanced research and resources for Alzheimer’s and dementia, diseases that impact millions of lives worldwide while showcasing the talents of young cricketers.

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Cricket for Cure was founded by Anand and Vijay Ravulapalli, along with Saurabh Verma, after the Ravulapalli brothers lost their mother to Alzheimer’s. Their firsthand experience with the devastating effects of the disease inspired them to create the organization, using their love of cricket as a vehicle to raise funds and awareness for Alzheimer’s research. This year’s tournament continued that mission, fostering teamwork and healthy competition among the youth while contributing to the Alzheimer’s Association’s National Capital Area Chapter.

“Our goal is to bat, bowl, and field our way to a future where Alzheimer’s and Dementia are manageable diseases,” said Anand Ravulapalli. “We believe that through youth engagement and awareness, we can inspire the next generation to take an interest in research and solutions.”

The tournament, held from July 26 to 28, featured more than 4,200 runs and over 230 wickets taken, highlighting the incredible talent of the young players. Teams competed across four categories, with the following winners emerging:

U11 Category:  Richmond Strikers from Richmond, VA

U13 & U15 Categories: Baltimore Royals Sunny Sohal Academy (BRSS) from Maryland and Northern Virginia

Vinyl Ball Category: Loudoun Cubs from Sterling, VA

The event drew distinguished guests, including Virginia State Delegate David A. Reid, Ashburn District Supervisor Michael R. Turner, and former Sri Lankan international cricketer Dammika Ranatunga, who participated in the presentation ceremony.

In total, the tournament raised over $20,000 for the Alzheimer’s Association National Capital Area Chapter. The main sponsors included Data Particles, CoverDrive, and H3C. The funds will support Alzheimer’s research and provide much-needed resources to patients and caregivers affected by the disease.

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“This event is about more than cricket. It’s about community and making a meaningful difference in the fight against Alzheimer’s and Dementia,” said Saurabh Verma. “We’re incredibly grateful to all the players, parents, sponsors, and volunteers who made this possible.”

As the Cricket for Cure team reflects on this year’s success, their vision remains clear: to continue using the power of cricket to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s and Dementia research. With future events planned, they aim to expand their impact, reaching more youth and communities in the coming years.

“The Cricket for Cure Tournament 2024 was more than just a sporting event — it was a celebration of compassion, commitment, and community,” said Anand Ravulapalli. “We’re already looking forward to next year, and we hope to see even more participation as we continue this vital mission.”