Rocky Mountain Pickleball Championships Winners: Vail athletes shone at the Rocky Mountain Pickleball Championships in Littleton, Colorado, winning multiple titles. The success continued at the USA Pickleball Golden Ticket national qualifier in Colorado Springs from July 9–13, where several players earned spots for the national event in San Diego this November.
John Donovan won the 3.0, 35-49 men’s singles division. Juli Young and Mike Leigh took first in the 4.5, 70 and over mixed doubles. Mike Leigh also teamed up with Jeff Wiles to win the 4.5, 70 and over men’s doubles division.
Overcoming Injury and Teamwork
Mike Leigh spoke about his experience playing after returning from Mexico.
“I had just arrived in Denver late the night before from six weeks in Mexico, where I had recently torn my rotator cuff and biceps tendon surfing. So, I was playing at about 50%,”. “My partners had to cover for me but I did not want to quit on them.”(Mike Leigh)
He credited improved communication for the team’s success.
“That’s the key to a successful doubles team,”.
Creative Prizes and Memorable Wins
Winners didn’t receive standard medals. Instead, they got beer glasses filled with unique rewards such as free indoor play coupons at The Picklr, massages, and tournament discounts.
“(It’s) nice to get a medal, but all of mine are sitting in a drawer somewhere. So, something with more value that we can use is great,” (Mike Leigh).
More Wins and Nationals Qualification
At the national qualifier in Colorado Springs, Juli Young and Sherrie Farris won gold in the 4.0, 70 and over division. They dominated with game scores of 15-3, 15-4, 15-8, 15-3, and 15-2. The win earned them a spot at the national championship in San Diego.
Bruce Aronow and Steve Lincks claimed the silver medal in the 4.0, 60 and over age group.
Looking Ahead: Local Clinics and Coaching
Mike Leigh, who has written two books about the mental side of pickleball, is leading a clinic in EagleVail on July 27. He said the session is based on his first book, Zen and the Art of Pickleball.
“We focus on both mental and physical activities to improve enjoyment of the game,”.
News in Brief: Rocky Mountain Pickleball Championships Winners
Vail pickleball players won big at recent tournaments in Colorado. Titles at the Rocky Mountain Championships and a national qualifier earned some athletes a spot at nationals in San Diego. Mike Leigh also plans to lead a local pickleball clinic, sharing his mental and physical training tips.
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