my quest for the golden paddle

I was cordially invited to play in the Alloy Digital 2009 Ping Pong Classic at SPiN New York last night, and oh what a time it was! I ate a lot of flavored popcorn and improved aspects of my game by taking two giant steps back from the table (so that's why my returns kept flying all over the place!) and definitely improved my slice. I think I probably maybe even could advance to the second round next year. I lost 21-19 to Arthur, a ringer brought in from the outside. So close!!!! And I was down 18-9. But he was a gentleman and a great opponent. Very much fun was had by me. I think I should try out my snazzy new SPiN moves at Bryant Park tomorrow.

SPiN New York is a membership-based subterranean ping pong club on 23rd Street and Park Avenue, complete with full bar and full menu of sandwiches, burgers, popcorn, salads, ice cream sandwiches and ice pops, because really, what more victuals do you need when you're working up a sweat at the tables?

I didn't win the golden paddle, but I did come away with logo sweatbands commemorating the event, a matching Bjorn Borg-style headband, and a foam finger!! I am (unironically) truly excited about the foam finger. Do you know how much fun it is to walk through the subway waving your giant yellow foam finger, cheering yourself on while people can't help but stare? I think I want to wear my foam finger all the time. Especially while commuting.

And another high point: I met Judah Friedlander!!!!! I'm not going to describe him as 30 Rock's Judah Friedlander, because he's been in other things too. Like American Splendor. Here's how it went down. Me: "I'm sorry to say that we're going to have to bump you... We're playing the first round of a tournament on this table... And yes, I did just take photos of you, and yes I am going to blog about you. Sorry to be so goofy, but my husband and I are big fans of yours." And he was so nice. We got into a conversation. We chatted. It was pretty darn awesome. Ping pong people are good people.

The set-up at SPiN is pretty sweet.
A bucket of balls at every table with ball boys all around.


You never had to chase a ball! So this is how the other half lives.


Parmesan, parseley and Maldon salt popcorn in between points.


This match was a great one! I should have taken a video instead.


Foam fingers!

The Finals match was a fight to the finish. Amazingly long points.
Crazy fast returns.


Judah Friedlander!!


Judah Friedlander!!!