The Picklr announced plans to host a special wood paddle tournament on Friday, August 8, to mark the 60th anniversary of pickleball. The event, called The Picklr Heritage Cup: A Wood Paddle Tournament, will take place at all 47 of The Picklr’s locations across the United States. This celebration will coincide with National Pickleball Day and will be free for everyone to join.
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Honoring the game’s beginnings
The Picklr Heritage Cup aims to celebrate pickleball’s history. The sport began in Bainbridge, Washington, in 1965. To honor that start, all players will use wooden paddles instead of modern composite ones. Participants are also encouraged to wear retro 1960s clothing to make the event feel true to the game’s early days.
Matt PeneGasser, Vice President of Pickleball at The Picklr, shared why the company wanted to host this unique tournament. He said,
“In a way to give back to the game of pickleball, while also celebrating the 60th anniversary of the sport, we decided that welcoming all members to one of our newest tournaments would be the best way to celebrate National Pickleball Day nationwide.”
Free lessons for beginners
Alongside the tournament, The Picklr will offer free Pickleball 101 classes. These lessons are designed for new players who want to learn the basics of the sport. Instructors will teach simple rules, scoring, where to stand, and how to play in an easy-to-understand way. Each class will provide a friendly space for beginners to feel comfortable trying pickleball for the first time.
Event’s impact and future
This event shows how pickleball continues to grow across the country. By hosting a free, nationwide tournament, The Picklr hopes to bring together longtime players and newcomers. Matt PeneGasser also said,
“Without a doubt, this tournament will be one of the most memorable events held at The Picklr and we can’t wait to see everyone on the courts.”
The Picklr’s effort could inspire other clubs to celebrate pickleball’s history in creative ways. As more people learn about the sport, the community will likely expand even more in the coming years.
News in Brief: The Picklr Heritage Cup
The Picklr will host a free wood paddle tournament at all 47 locations on August 8 for National Pickleball Day. Called The Picklr Heritage Cup, the event honors the sport’s 60th anniversary. Free beginner classes will also be offered to help new players learn pickleball basics.
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