Bay hosting the SW Pickleball Festival

Torbay will welcome 90 racquet-sport enthusiasts for the second South West Pickleball Festival on Sunday April 28 at Torquay Tennis Club.

Pickleball, the fastest growing sport in the USA, is now endorsed by the Lawn Tennis Association and its popularity is growing rapidly across the UK. It is very easy to play, suitable for all ages, good exercise and great fun.

The event is being co-hosted by Torquay Tennis Club’s Ray Armstrong and England International players Peter and Margaret Hunter, who have just returned from playing in the US Open Pickleball Championship.

Nine indoor Pickleball courts will be in play on the day and some quality matches on offer. There will also be a pop-up Pickleball People equipment store for guests and players to try the paddles and balls before buying, while the licensed clubhouse will be providing refreshments all day.

Torquay is fast gaining a reputation for embracing and promoting the sport under the guidance of qualified Pickleball Coach Angelo Cambianica with Ray Armstrong, and recently the Club was fortunate to receive a visit from Irish National medallists Isabelle and Thomas Fitzpatrick, who enjoyed the excellent facilities.

Angelo commented: “We are delighted with the growth and interest in Pickleball at Torquay. It is amazing to see people of all ages and abilities playing a new sport, which is easy to learn and has brought many people back to sport when they thought their playing days were behind them.

“We host beginner and intermediate social sessions on Mondays, together with Social Pickle on Wednesdays and Sunday mornings. All new players are welcome, the first session is free to try and even some coaching is also provided.”

If you would like to try a new sport in a friendly and welcoming environment, contact Torquay Tennis club on 01803 209500 for full details.