PPA Challenger Series Fairport Highlights: The PPA Challenger Series brought fierce pickleball action to Fairport, New York, where over 340 players gathered from July 5 through July 7, 2025. Athletes competed for medals, tour points, and leaderboard spots as the season reached its midpoint at the Fairport Pickleball Club along the Erie Canal.
The three-day event showcased singles, doubles, and mixed doubles matches in front of large crowds and in excellent playing conditions.
Singles Competition Opens the Weekend
Friday began with Men’s and Women’s Singles. John Lucian Goins from JOOLA reached the Men’s final but was defeated by George Rangelov in a strong match. In the Women’s bracket, Jada Bui, who played tennis for the University of California, earned her second gold medal of the Challenger season.
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Doubles Take Center Stage
Saturday focused on Men’s and Women’s Doubles. John Lucian Goins returned to compete with Yuta Funemizu. The pair played with focus and energy, defeating Kevin Dong and Wade Heerboth in the final. Goins has also been known for his rare win over Ben Johns and added another title to his season.
In the Women’s Doubles, Antoaneta Toskova and Anne-Sophie Courteau of Canada came from behind after dropping the first game. They won in three tight sets against Allie Reichert and Abika Kalsarieva.
Mixed Doubles Wrap Up the Event
Sunday featured Mixed Doubles with more exciting play. Josh Jenkins from JOOLA and Cynthia McPherson did not finish on the podium but won a close backdraw match 17-15 over Dominique Canale and Eric Davidson.
Local fans cheered for Paul Valenti, whose family has a long history in the sport. His father started Valenti Sporting Goods and the well-known Picklefest XV tournament.
The final match of the weekend ended with Nicole Conrad and Anouar Braham claiming gold against Katherine Allan and Wade Heerboth.
The Road Ahead
The PPA Challenger Series will continue with its next tournament at Lake Hallie Pickleball in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, on July 24, 2025. As the season moves forward, players will look to build momentum and improve their rankings.
News in Brief: PPA Challenger Series Fairport Highlights
More than 340 athletes competed in Fairport, New York, at the PPA Challenger Series midseason stop. Gold medals were earned by players including Jada Bui, John Lucian Goins, Yuta Funemizu, Antoaneta Toskova, Anne-Sophie Courteau, , and Anouar Braham. The tour continues July 24 in Wisconsin.