For the first time since Leroy Nieman painted Marty Hogan in the late 70’s, racquetball fans now have the opportunity to take home a real artwork collector’s item that someday may be worth thousands of dollars! 

Memphis area artist Michael Maness has produced two stunning original paintings of Sudsy Monchik, five time pro world champion and Cheryl Gudinas, three time National Singles Champion and the reigning queen of the LPRA. Both paintings were on display at the U.S. OPEN with the originals auctioned of at the Saturday evening Party with the Pro’s. Over $1,500 was raised with 100% of the proceeds being donated to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. 

Michael Maness is a very talented and famous artist in the mid-South and has produced hundreds of masterpieces that have been sold in art galleries around the world. After having been diagnosed with terminal cancer over three years ago, he’s outlived his doctor’s longest predictions by suffering through three bone marrow transplants and numerous chemo and radiation treatments. His goal in life is to enjoy every minute of every day while trying to help others who are sick. That is why he has adopted St. Jude Hospital as his personal charity of choice. The work they do with terminally ill children has saved countless lives and Michael Maness has helped to raise thousands of dollars to support these efforts. 

Both of the original paintings were sold to the highest bidder in Memphis, but each was also reproduced as a lithograph, in a limited printing of 150, individually numbered and autographed by both the artist and the featured athlete. The last of them can still be purchased for $100 each (+$10 for shipping) with a significant portion of the proceeds going to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. 

While supplies last, you can order them online -- or call the USRA at (719) 635-5396 ext. 120 with a credit card -- or send a check to the USRA at 1685 West Uintah, Colorado Springs, CO 80904-2906 (be sure to include your shipping address). Don’t miss this opportunity to own a piece of racquetball history. Order your special, limited edition today!