Get ready to cheer, Victoria—the area’s first pickleball tournament since the COVID-19 pandemic kicks off this week and all are invited to spectate.
The Victoria Regional Pickleball Association (VRPA) says the Island Classic Tournament returns this Friday, Saturday and Sunday at GR Pearkes Recreation Centre at Tillicum Centre.
Over 160 players are registered to compete, with many flocking from across Vancouver Island, the Lower Mainland and “even Oregon and California,” the VRPA says.
On Friday from 5 to 8 p.m., singles games will kick off the tournament, followed by men’s and women’s doubles on Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., with mixed doubles wrapping things up on Sunday from 8:30 a.m. until 3 p.m.
VRPA says pickleball is “widely known as the fastest-growing sport in North America,” offering players a combination of tennis, badminton and ping pong.
Association president Connie McCann says she’s “excited about the level of play that will be on show this weekend” and believes “spectators will be enthused.”
While tournament admission is free on all three days, organizers will be checking COVID-19 vaccine cards at the door, according to the VRPA.
Island Classic Tournament
- When: June 10th, 11th & 12th
- Where: GR Pearkes Recreation Centre
- Admission: Free; vaccine card check at the door
