The excitement is visible as the Pickleball Zone Fall Classic approaches, scheduled for October 16-20, 2024. This all-doubles indoor tournament will take place at Pickleball Zone Bend and welcomes players with skill levels of 3.0 and higher. With a commitment to fostering competitive spirit and camaraderie, this tournament promises to be an unforgettable experience.
Format and Competition Details
The pickleball tournament will feature Round Robin brackets followed by a single elimination playoff (SE) to determine the final winners in all categories. Competitors can expect rigorous matches with a focus on skill development and fair play. Medals will be awarded across various skill levels, emphasizing the importance of participation and excellence.
Notably, the OPEN events will include a cash purse, with priority given to players rated 4.5 or higher. Participants should note that at least one player on a team must possess a 4.5 rating to qualify for these prestigious events. The format will ensure that all players compete against others of similar skill, enhancing the tournament’s integrity.
Important Registration Guidelines
Potential participants should register according to their highest rating among DUPR, UTPR, WPR, PBR, or self-rating. This measure aims to maintain a competitive balance and ensure a fair environment for all players, particularly at the 3.0 and 3.5 levels, where mismatched skill levels have been a concern in the past. Players have three days from registration to secure their partners; after that, they may be placed on a waitlist.
For those who might need to replace their partners, it’s crucial to do so with a player qualified to compete in the same skill/age group, maintaining the competitive balance of the event.
Tournament Schedule and Venue
The tournament will kick off on Wednesday, with events scheduled throughout the weekend:
- Wednesday: Women’s 3.5, Women’s 3.5 55+, Men’s 3.5, Men’s 3.5 55+
- Thursday: Mixed 3.5, Mixed 3.5 55+, Women’s 4.0 55+, Mixed 4.5, Mixed 4.5 50+
- Friday: Men’s 4.0, Men’s 4.0 55+, Women’s 4.5, Women’s 4.5 50+, Men’s 4.5 50+
- Saturday: Women’s 4.0, Women’s Open, Women’s Open 55+, Men’s Open, Men’s Open 55+
- Sunday: Mixed 4.0, Mixed 4.0 55+, Mixed Open, Mixed Open 50+
The Pickleball Zone Bend, located at 63040 NE 18th St, Bend, Oregon, features eight indoor, air-conditioned courts with a permanent net system, ensuring players can focus solely on their game. With no parking fees, the venue promotes accessibility for all participants.
Lodging and Refund Policies
Players attending the tournament can take advantage of a special discount at the newly opened Bend RV Resort, offering modern accommodations for tournament participants.
Regarding withdrawals, cancellations made before October 8, 2024, will receive a full refund minus a cancellation fee, while participants placed on a waitlist will not incur fees until they are confirmed in an event. Refunds are typically issued 7-10 days post-tournament completion.
News in Brief: Pickleball Zone Fall Classic
The Pickleball Zone Fall Classic is set for October 16-20, 2024, at Pickleball Zone Bend in Oregon. This all-doubles indoor pickleball tournament is open to players with skill levels of 3.0 and higher and will feature Round Robin brackets leading to playoff rounds. Medals will be awarded across various skill levels, with a cash purse for OPEN events prioritizing players rated 4.5 or higher. Players must register according to their highest rating, and lodging discounts are available at Bend RV Resort.
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