Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports on the planet after being invented in 1965 by US Congressman Joel Pritchard at his home near Seattle. The most common theory is that it was named after his dog ‘Pickles’ as the first games were played using this dog’s play-ball.
Pickleball’s unique name raises curiosity and hints at the fun and enjoyment that is experienced by all who play the game. This is a hybrid sport combining many of the elements of tennis, badminton and ping pong; played on a court similar to a badminton court with a waist-high net.
There is now a strong following in Hua Hin after being established here in 2014 by Alison Fulton. Growth in that popularity was boosted when Hua Hin hosted the 2020 the Thailand Open in February.
Alison has now revealed details of the next big tournament happening on 3rd and 4th October at True Arena with spectators welcome. The Texas Open is one of the sports premier events which usually takes place in the US annually. However because of the inability of international players to travel to Texas, this year the Open is being staged in five different countries; India, Singapore, Scotland and England PLUS in Hua Hin Thailand.
There around 70 players registered for a full two days Thailand’s version of the Texas Open starting each morning at 8 AM. Genuine Texas Open medals will be highly sought prizes, sent from the US to confirm the status of the event.
Pickleball in Hua Hin is available to all ages and skill levels at True Arena. Member sessions happen each Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 10 Am to 1 PM. Beginners should get started on a Wednesday training session from 9 – 11 AM.
