National Mall of Pickleball Returns: In celebration of National Pickleball Day, The Trust for the National Mall and Humana have announced new programming and an advanced court reservation date for the highly anticipated second annual National Mall of Pickleball event. Set to take place from September 27th through September 29th, 2024, this event will bring over 250 hours of pickleball action to the heart of Washington, D.C., with temporary pickleball courts set up between the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial. Themed “One for the Ages,” this year’s event highlights the intergenerational aspect of pickleball, encouraging players of all ages to come together and create lasting connections.
Expanded Court Availability and Reservations
Last year’s event saw an overwhelming response, with advance court reservations filling up in just two minutes. In response to this high demand, the 2024 event will feature two additional courts, bringing the total to eleven. Court reservations will open on September 18, 2024, at 12:00 PM ET, allowing players to secure one-hour blocks of court time. Half of the courts will be available for advance reservations, while the other half will be reserved for walk-on play. Players will also have access to paddles and balls on-site.
Exciting Programming and Special Events
The National Mall of Pickleball will offer a range of activities beyond just court time. D.C.’s own Pickleball Team (DCPT), including notable players like James Ignatowich, Rachel Rohrabacher, Vivian Glozman, and Dekel Bar, will host clinics for players of all skill levels. Other event highlights include:
- Media Match: The Washington Post will defend its title as D.C.’s top press pickleball team in a round-robin tournament against other national press corps members.
- DMV Invitational Tournament: Local leagues will compete for the title of pickleball champion, with a fundraising challenge supporting The Trust for the National Mall’s mission.
- DCPT Show: Professional athletes will face off on Center Court, showcasing their skills.
- In the Kitchen: Presented by the Humana Foundation, this event will feature healthy recipes to fuel players throughout the weekend.
- Knock Out:
Pickleball enthusiasts are invited to showcase their skills on Center Court, vying for the title of National Mall of Pickleball Knockout Champion in a friendly end-of-day knockout game.
New Programming and the Ultimate Duo Challenge
This year, new events will make their debut, including “Pickle Madness,” where D.C.-area college students and alumni will compete, and “Knock Out,” a friendly competition open to all attendees. The highlight of the weekend will be the Ultimate Duo Challenge, featuring six intergenerational finalist pairs from across the country. These finalists, who have used pickleball to build meaningful relationships, will compete for the title of the National Mall of Pickleball’s first-ever Ultimate Duo.
“The Trust and Humana know how important social connection and physical health are to living a healthy life,” said Bruce Broussard, Chair of the Humana Foundation and the Trust for the National Mall Board. “This event will celebrate the impact pickleball has had across generations, fostering relationships and promoting healthy living.”
Supporting the Trust’s Mission
Funds raised during the 2024 National Mall of Pickleball will support The Trust’s mission to restore and preserve the National Mall, with a focus on projects leading up to America’s Semiquincentennial in 2026. To learn more about the event, reserve court time, or sign up for the Daily Dink newsletter, visit nationalmall.org/pickleball.
Media interested in attending the event should register to secure their credentials. For more information on supporting The Trust and its work with the National Park Service, visit their official website.
About the Trust for the National Mall
The Trust for the National Mall, a prominent nonprofit partner of the National Park Service, is committed to restoring and enriching the National Mall. Leveraging its expertise, private funding, and in-kind support, the Trust tackles crucial restoration and sustainability projects essential for preserving this iconic landmark. Beyond restoration, the Trust mobilizes a strong volunteer network to offer educational opportunities, ensuring the National Mall remains a vibrant civic stage for all.
About Humana
Humana Inc. is dedicated to prioritizing health for its teammates, customers, and the company. With its Humana insurance services and CenterWell healthcare services, Humana aims to help millions achieve their best health by providing timely, essential care and services.
About Humana Foundation
Established in 1981, the Humana Foundation serves as the philanthropic arm of Humana Inc., with a focus on health equity. The Foundation is dedicated to eliminating unjust, avoidable, and unnecessary barriers in health and healthcare. By fostering evidence-based collaborations and investments, the Foundation helps people in underserved communities live connected, healthy lives.
News in Brief: National Mall of Pickleball Returns
The Trust for the National Mall and Humana have announced the second annual National Mall of Pickleball, set for September 27-29, 2024. The event will feature over 250 hours of pickleball on eleven temporary courts near the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial. Themed “One for the Ages,” it will celebrate intergenerational play, with new programming including “Pickle Madness” and “Knock Out.” Court reservations open on September 18, with half the courts available for advance booking. The event will also host the Ultimate Duo Challenge, showcasing finalists who exemplify the sport’s impact on relationships and healthy living. Funds raised will support the Trust’s mission to preserve the National Mall.
