A total of 26 participants took part in the Isle of Wight’s first ever pickleball festival at West Wight Sports Centre on Friday (4th April).
The event followed an ‘all play all’ format, giving every player a chance to team up and compete with everyone else. This setup allowed less experienced players to test their skills against more seasoned opponents in a friendly and inclusive atmosphere.
Among those taking part were 4 sports instructors from the Isle of Wight College. They noted a growing interest in pickleball among students and welcomed the opportunity to play with new faces.
A key highlight of the day was the Challenger court, where English National Champion Tom Turney teamed up with former British Open Over 60s winner Simon Proffitt. The pair took on all comers in doubles matches throughout the afternoon, drawing in a crowd of enthusiastic spectators.
Kay Montagu, West Wight Sports Centre pickleball coach, has said:
“Following our successful tournament in January, we decided to hold the festival, which, from feedback, has been equally popular.
“We shall certainly be holding more of these events in the future.”
More pickleball festivals are expected to be announced soon as interest in the sport continues to grow across the Isle of Wight.
