On Dec 30th the inaugural Picklemas Dinkathon was held. Thirty-two players competed in a Dinking round-robin tournament. Note that “dinks” are short drop-shots over the net that must bounce in the non-volley zone. In addition to the player entry fee, participants were asked to bring a plate of festive finger food. There was plenty of savouries and desserts for all, and tables and chairs were set out for players and spectators to sit, support, feast and make merry.

There was a 16 player round-robin on each of the two courts, with the top two ranked players moving on to a two game Grand Final. After the dust settled, Errol Lipschitz was declared champion over the other three finalists, Bert Carswell, Murray Trefry and Mark Garland. Participants declared the day a very enjoyable success and therefore this Dinking tournament will become a permanent feature of our calendar, along with the 2nd Annual Serge Planidin Memorial Dinking Tournament to be held in the Spring. There will also be the opportunity to play full court tournaments throughout the year. If you want to learn how to play pickleball or are an experienced player, but new to the Seniors centre, contact Richard, the Pickleball Coordinator at .

Richard Ward