The dinking, poaching and pickling are not quite yet done for the season, as the Vernon Pickleball Association (VPA) will host its final event of 2023 – Rally in the Valley.
Approximately 270 teams are expected to converge on the Okanagan Wealth Advisors (OWA) Pickleball Complex in Vernon to compete Friday, Sept. 29, to Sunday, Oct. 1.
The tournament is sanctioned by Pickleball Canada and Pickleball B.C., with four different skill categories, three gender divisions, and ages ranging from 14 to 78 years old.
“Thanks to a very dedicated Tournament Committee and hundreds of member volunteers, this will be the fifth open tournament put on by the VPA at the OWA Pickleball Complex this year,” said VPA president Myron Hocevar.
“These tournaments not only showcase our facility and organization, but also have a significant economic impact to the City of Vernon because of the large number of out-of-town participants.”
The event is free to watch for spectators, with food trucks and a beer garden on site.
Competitors and visitors at the complex over the weekend will notice construction taking place in front of the building. This is the final phrase of the renovations, the erection of Hermann House, which is a registration and reception area, complete with washrooms.
A total of 70 per cent of the capital costs and 100 per cent of the operating costs will have been paid for by the VPA members and the club, over the next 20 years.
The VPA is a non-profit society with over 1,100 members who play year-round, both recreationally and competitively.
For more information on the VPA and the upcoming tournament, visit vernonpickleball.com.
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