The 19th Annual Happy Trails Pickleball Classic returns to Surprise, Arizona, from January 13 through 17 at the renowned Happy Trails Resort. Known as one of the longest-running and most prestigious pickleball events in the country, the tournament promises to blend high-energy competition, hospitality, and community spirit.
A Storied Legacy of Growth and Passion
Pickleball’s presence in Arizona began in 2001 when Earl Hill introduced it to the Arizona Senior Olympics. Hosted at the Happy Trails Resort, the first tournament saw 100 players, marking it as the largest pickleball event in history at the time.
In the years that followed, the tournament’s growth was meteoric—within just three years, the event had nearly 300 participants, setting the foundation for what has become the Happy Trails Pickleball Classic.
Tournament Expands for 2024
As pickleball continues to grow in popularity across all age groups and skill levels, the 2024 tournament has expanded to include a variety of events.
“This year, we’ve expanded our events to reflect the growing love for pickleball across all ages and skill levels. The Happy Trails Classic is about more than just winning. It’s about being part of the sport’s incredible legacy.” – (Tournament Director Doug Smook)
He emphasized that the Happy Trails Classic is about more than just competition. It’s a celebration of pickleball’s rich legacy. The 2024 event will feature 50-and-over, skill/age divisions, as well as USAP Sanctioned matches. All games will be refereed, ensuring participants a top-tier experience.
Details and Registration Information
Registration for the Happy Trails Pickleball Classic is now open, with spots filling up quickly. The event will take place on the Cascade Pickleball Courts, located at 17200 W. Bell Road in Surprise.
Players will compete in Men’s, Women’s, and Mixed Doubles divisions, with age categories including 50-59, 60-69, and 70+. The entry fee is $85, with an additional $5 per event charged by Pickleball Brackets. Players are guaranteed at least three games per event.
Interested players should register before the January 1 deadline to secure their spot. Enhanced hospitality offerings are also part of this year’s tournament, including a fully stocked hospitality suite, sponsored by Jeff Hertig/Edward Jones.
News in Brief: Happy Trails Pickleball Classic
The 19th Annual Happy Trails Pickleball Classic will take place from January 13 to 17, 2024, at Happy Trails Resort in Surprise, Arizona. The event, one of the longest-running pickleball tournaments in the U.S., has expanded its divisions to reflect the sport’s growing popularity across all ages and skill levels.
Registration is open until January 1, with an entry fee of $85 plus $5 per event. Players will compete in Men’s, Women’s, and Mixed Doubles, with a guarantee of three games per event.
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