The inaugural Har-Tru Southern Clay Court Championships will be held at the Kiawah Island Resort in South Carolina on May 17-18, 2025. This exciting pickleball tournament will feature matches on newly converted clay courts, marking the first time the sport is played on Har-Tru clay at this venue.
Event Overview
The event will take place over two days, with Men’s and Women’s Doubles scheduled for Saturday, May 17, and Mixed Doubles on Sunday, May 18.
Registration for the tournament opens on February 7, 2025, and closes on April 27, 2025. The cost for registration is $60 for one event, with additional events priced at $15 each.
The tournament will feature round robin play, followed by medal brackets for divisions with more than four teams. Specific start times will be emailed to participants approximately one week prior to the event. Players can register with a partner or request one, but both players must register and pay to secure their spots.
Unique Tournament Setting
Held at the Kiawah Island Resort, a renowned destination for luxury vacations near Charleston, South Carolina, the event will be a unique experience.
The resort, known for its world-class amenities, will transform its pickleball courts into clay courts, courtesy of Har-Tru, the company behind the courts’ design. This makes it the perfect location for players looking for a top-tier competitive experience.
Important Registration Details
Participants are urged to register early to ensure they receive a free tournament shirt. The last day to register for a guaranteed shirt is April 27, 2025, by 11:55 p.m.
The pickleball competition will include players of varying skill levels, from 2.5 to 5.0+, and age groups spanning from 16+ to 70+. Teams must compete at the higher-rated player’s skill level and the younger player’s age group.
Tournament Format and Rules
The tournament will follow USA Pickleball’s official rulebook, ensuring fair play throughout. Players will use approved paddles listed on the USA Pickleball website.
There will be no referees, but self-monitoring will be in place for the matches. If a referee is requested, the organizers will attempt to provide one.
Registration Process and Refund Policy
To register, players can either identify their partner or request a “Need partner” option. Partners must register within five days, or the team will be moved to the waitlist.
After the April 27 deadline, players can no longer receive refunds unless they have purchased tournament insurance. The insurance covers cancellations due to weather or personal emergencies.
The Bigger Picture
The Southern Clay Court Championships are a significant addition to the growing popularity of pickleball, offering players a chance to compete in a unique and prestigious environment.
The pickleball tournament will not only provide competitive play but also highlight the beauty and luxury of Kiawah Island, giving participants and spectators a memorable experience.
News in Brief: Har-Tru Southern Clay Court Championships
The inaugural Har-Tru Southern Clay Court Championships will take place at Kiawah Island Resort, SC, on May 17-18, 2025. Players will compete on Har-Tru clay courts in Men’s, Women’s, and Mixed Doubles events.
Registration opens February 7 and closes April 27. Participants can compete in different skill levels, with USA Pickleball rules in place. Early registration guarantees a free shirt, and the event promises a unique, luxurious experience.
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