The Crazy Ape Challenge 2025, held at Pickle Point in Carrollton, Texas, wrapped up after a weekend of intense pickleball action. With 355 players competing across multiple divisions, the tournament featured high-level competition and a $2,000 Money Ball grand prize, solidifying its reputation as a premier event in Texas.
Under the direction of tournament director Robby Robertson, the event featured round-robin play and guaranteed playoff berths for all participants, ensuring a competitive and engaging experience for pickleball players and spectators.
Men’s Doubles Open – Gorby and Erves Capture Money Ball Prize
The Men’s Doubles Open (4.0 to 5.0) was the tournament’s remarkable event, with JP Gorby and Nick Erves delivering a dominant performance to win the $2,000 Money Ball grand prize. Cesar Regino and Kyle Rowe finished as runners-up, securing $500, while Elliott Velasco and Parker Del Medico claimed third place.
First Place: JP Gorby & Nick Erves
Second Place: Cesar Regino & Kyle Rowe
Third Place: Elliott Velasco & Parker Del Medico
Women’s Doubles Open – Rizvi and Khurana Dominate
In the Women’s Open Division (4.0 and above), Natasha Rizvi and Neha Khurana showcased elite court awareness and teamwork to take the top prize. Skyler Jessop and Kristi Tschudin put up a strong fight but settled for second place, while Jessica Welch and Jazz Hearn rounded out the podium.
First Place: Natasha Rizvi & Neha Khurana
Second Place: Skyler Jessop & Kristi Tschudin
Third Place: Jessica Welch & Jazz Hearn
Mixed Doubles Open – Li and Gorby Secure Victory
The Mixed Doubles Open (4.0 to 5.0) provided some of the weekend’s most intense rallies. Elaine Li and JP Gorby proved unstoppable, using precise volleys and smart court positioning to take first place. Tiffany Landgraf and Nick Erves finished as runners-up, while Meredith Novy and Joao Correa secured third place.
First Place: Elaine Li & JP Gorby
Second Place: Tiffany Landgraf & Nick Erves
Third Place: Meredith Novy & Joao Correa
Standout Performances in Skill Divisions
Men’s Doubles 3.0-3.5 (5-49 Age Group) – Pranav Ramesh & Bryan Doan battled through tough matches to claim gold.
Men’s Doubles 3.5-4.0 (50 and Above) – Harry Fu & Bob Noriega dominated with exceptional net control.
Women’s Doubles 3.5-4.0 (5-49 Age Group) – Leah Awa & Marie Rowena Cabral executed precision shots to win.
Mixed Doubles 3.5-4.0 (50 and Above) – Linda Springs & Thomas Bugg secured victory in a competitive field.
A Tournament to Remember
With 12 courts buzzing with competition, the Crazy Ape Challenge 2025 lived up to its reputation as a premier pickleball tournament. Players showcased elite skill, determination, and sportsmanship, making it an unforgettable weekend for all involved.
As pickleball’s popularity continues to surge, the Crazy Ape Challenge has firmly established itself as a must-attend event. With an even bigger 2026 edition planned, players are already looking ahead to another thrilling battle for the Money Ball prize next year.
News in Brief: Crazy Ape Challenge 2025
The Crazy Ape Challenge 2025 at Pickle Point in Carrollton, Texas, concluded after a weekend of high-energy pickleball featuring 355 players. JP Gorby and Nick Erves won the $2,000 Money Ball grand prize in Men’s Doubles Open, while Natasha Rizvi & Neha Khurana and Elaine Li & JP Gorby claimed titles in Women’s and Mixed Doubles Open, respectively.
ALSO READ: Lake City’s New Pickleball Courts Now Open to the Public Despite Challenges