A unique partnership resulted in the Richmond Pickleball Association holding its first-ever official the event.
When the Richmond Curling Club learned of the fast-growing organization via recent article in the Richmond News, it welcomed the association to its facility since the ice was out over the summer.
The fun tournament/social was filled within eight hours as 70 players of all ages and physical ability took advantage of the temporary courts. Special guests included councillor Bill McNulty and Ed Lamond of the Richmond Sports Council.
Currently, pickleball is only played in community centres over the winter in Richmond, with courts usually fully-booked and players turned away.
In the summer, players typically travel to other cities where there are dedicated pickleball venues or lines have been added to already existing tennis courts. Leading the way is Delta where $1 million dollars has been allocated to build additional courts over the next three years.
The Richmond Pickleball Association is working with the city for its own exclusive courts, potentially in time for the 55+ B.C. Games in 2020.
As the sport continues to expand at a rapid rate, the Richmond Curling Club partnership could provide a different avenue for more courts in one facility and more social play such as on Friday nights.
Both groups look forward to more opportunities to bring pickleball to Richmond and get the community active.
