The 2024 Desert Pickleball Classic, hosted by Pickleball Is Great (PIG), is set to return to Palm Desert, California, from November 9-11, offering a thrilling weekend of competition for all ages and skill levels. Held at the Embassy Suites Palm Springs on Highway 111, this year’s tournament promises more action with expanded US Senior Pickleball (USSP) events and a new discount structure for early registrations.
The pickleball tournament will feature a round-robin format with playoffs for Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals, providing a minimum of three games per event. It is open to players of all skill levels (3.0 to 5.0) and age divisions from 19+ to 80+, making it a premier event for seasoned competitors and newcomers to the sport.
A highlight of the 2024 event is the emphasis on senior play. Players aged 50 and above can compete in USSP-sanctioned divisions, grouped by five-year age increments. While no membership is required to participate, USSP members can receive a $10 refund. The weekend kicks off with Mixed Doubles on Saturday, followed by Men’s Doubles on Sunday, and Women’s Doubles wrapping up the tournament on Monday.
Registration Costs and Deadlines
Participants are encouraged to take advantage of early registration, which costs $35, with an additional $15 per event, available throughout June and July. Standard registration will increase to $45 in August and September, and late registration from October through November will be $55. Players can compete in up to two events, with entries closing on October 31, 2024.
Matches will be played on 16 outdoor hard courts, using Franklin X40 balls, and will follow a structured scoring system based on the number of teams in each pool. Pools with four to six teams will play games to 15 points (win by 2), while larger pools will play to 11 points. Playoff and medal rounds will vary, with the Gold Medal matches allowing players the choice of two out of three to 11 or one game to 15.
Location and Lodging
Set against the backdrop of the scenic Coachella Valley, the Embassy Suites Palm Springs serves as the tournament venue, offering special room rates for players and their families. A group rate of $189 per night, plus tax, is available until October 8, 2024, and parking is free for all participants. Vendors interested in showing their products during the event can reserve a space for $300, with availability limited.
Refund Policy
Refunds requested before October 31 will incur a $15 administrative fee. For requests made after the deadline, participants may receive up to 50% of their registration fee. If inclement weather affects play, the tournament offers a partial refund policy of up to 50%.
With its competitive atmosphere and scenic location, the Desert Pickleball Classic is expected to draw players from across the region. As pickleball continues to gain momentum nationwide, this event offers a fun and challenging opportunity for all amateur and seasoned players to showcase their skills in paradise.
News in Brief: 2024 Desert Pickleball Classic
The 2024 Desert Pickleball Classic, hosted by Pickleball Is Great, will take place in Palm Desert, California, from November 9-11. This year’s tournament features expanded US Senior Pickleball events and a new discount structure for early registrations. Players aged 19+ to 80+ can compete in a round-robin format for Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals.
Registration costs start at $35, with entries closing on October 31. The tournament will be held at the Embassy Suites Palm Springs, offering special room rates. A partial refund policy is in place for cancellations and inclement weather.
