Pickleball enthusiasts of all ages will soon be flocking to Abbotsford Exhibition Park to participate in the first-ever tournament hosted by the Abbotsford Pickleball Association (APA).
More than 200 people have already signed up to be part of this inaugural event, which involves a wide variety of events.
"We have players coming from all over the Lower Mainland, even Whistler," the APA said.
Throughout the course of three days, dozens of medals will be handed out to the competitors as they battle it out to determine the most skilled pairs.
However, the APA explained that the medals are only a very small part of what draws most of these players to large tournaments like the Abbotsford Fall Classic.
"We like to think of it as a 3-f sport – fun, friendship, and fitness," the APA said. "It provides the older set fitness, flexibility, coordination, confidence, and challenge along with companionship, friendship, and fun."
While the tournament has filled up quite fast, the APA said that some additional elderly athletes are still needed for the 60-and-over events.
Despite pickleball initially gaining a major foothold within the seniors community, the APA explained that many clubs around the country have experienced a flood of younger players within the last few years.
"Our club has a good mix of age groups, and like other areas of the country, the biggest growth is in the 30 to 35 age group."
While members of the APA will receive a discount when signing up for the tournament, interested competitors do not need to belong to the club.
Anyone who is at least 14 years old and registered with Pickleball Brackets is eligible for the tournament, with more information available at pickleballbrackets.com/pts.aspx.
The Abbotsford Fall Classic takes place at the Abbotsford Exhibition Park from Dec. 13 to 15, with registration open until Dec. 6.
