Sport
16 July, 2022
Pickleball: the fun sport with the strange name
Pickleball is a racquet sport, and a cross between tennis, table tennis and badminton.
It was first introduced to Cairns and Australia seven years ago is one of the fastest growing sports here and in the world.
The bat, or paddle as it is known, is solid and similar in size to an oversize table tennis bat. The light whiffle-style ball is about the size of a tennis ball, and the net is a little lower than a tennis net.
The fun sport is played on a court with similar dimensions to a badminton court and can be played indoors or outdoors.
For those with a more competitive streak, there are numerous tournaments held around the state and country. During the recent North Queensland Games held at the Townsville Tennis centre, club members contested all three major events. Gold medals were won in both the men’s and women’s doubles, along with silver in the mixed doubles. Other medals were collected in other divisions as well.
The Cairns & District Pickleball Club has over 120 members made up of players in Cairns and the Atherton Tablelands. The sport is played in Cairns at the Redlynch Central Sports Stadium (opposite the Redlynch shopping centre) on Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays between 9am & 12pm.
Other Far North venues include Malanda, Tully and Cardwell. New players are welcome anytime.
For those who would like to experience the sport firsthand, the club will be holding an open day/come and try day, on Sunday July 31 between 10am & 2pm. Cost of $5 includes court hire and use of equipment. Morning tea and lunch will also be provided. Everyone is welcome.
For enquiries, please contact Graham on 0427533921 or visit Cairns Pickleball Facebook page https://bit.ly/3IDbUL7
