The Peterborough Pickleball Association showed remarkable skills at the Crystal Head Open in Kingston, held on July 6-7. Sponsored by the renowned Dan Aykroyd, the tournament attracted over 220 athletes from Canada and USA, making it a significant event in the pickleball calendar.
A Weekend of Wins
PPA athletes won medals in 11 events, showing their competitive edge and skill. Cole Lester and Alex Manley clinched the mixed doubles open competition, with Peterborough’s Marc Rochon and Kingston’s Deanna Christon earning the bronze. Rochon also teamed up with Jonathan McConnel from Perth to secure a silver medal in the men’s open doubles, while Lester and Rayce Manger placed third in the same category.
In the mixed doubles (Skill 4.0) 19 years and older division, Manley and Emma Grant-Bergeron took home the gold. Grant-Bergeron also paired with Roy Wales to win the gold in the mixed doubles (Skill 4.0) round-robin. Nikki Rejman and Johnny Longmuir placed second in the mixed doubles (Skill 3.5) 19 years and older competition, adding to the tally of achievements.
Diverse Age Groups, Diverse Success
The PPA’s success spanned various age groups and skill levels. James Dillon and Doug Gould won gold in the men’s doubles (Skill 3.5) 40 to 59 age group. Kalvin Andrews and Gil Gerelus won silver in the men’s doubles (Skill 3.0) 50 and older class. In the men’s doubles (Skill 3.5) 60 and over category, Paul Wales and John Longmuir secured silver, while Shauna Longmuir and John Longmuir won bronze in the mixed doubles (Skill 3.5) 50 to 64 age group.
Special Prizes and Future Competitions
Gold medal winners received a unique prize: an iconic skull-shaped bottle designed and signed by Aykroyd, symbolizing life, power, and enlightenment. Additionally, these winners qualify for the True North Pickleball Tour Championships in September in Collingwood, offering them a chance to compete at an even higher level.
“The crystal bottle is a symbol of life, reflecting power and enlightenment, and only the best to hold their multi-award-winning spirit.” – (statement on the bottle)
Community Engagement and Future Events
“The Peterborough Pickleball Association is dedicated to expanding the reach of pickleball, fostering community engagement, physical and mental health, and elevating the sport to new heights in our local community.” said Shelley Moloney, president of the PPA, in a press release.
This commitment is evident in their upcoming events, including the Second Annual Steve Mayhew Memorial Summer Smash Tournament on July 20-21 at Bonnerworth Park, where the community is invited to cheer on local competitors.
“We invite community members to come to the Second Annual Steve Mayhew Memorial Summer Smash Tournament on July 20 and July 21 at Bonnerworth Park and cheer on our local competitors.” – (Shelley Moloney)
News in Brief: Peterborough Pickleball Association
As the Peterborough Pickleball Association continues to grow and succeed, their efforts in promoting the sport and engaging the community set a strong foundation for the future of pickleball in the region.
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