By Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

it's a big dill

Nearly 800 pickleballers in Red Deer for national championship Aug. 10-15

Aug 9, 2021 | 5:35 PM

A spicy week of competition is set for Red Deer’s Motorworks Fields (2900 67 Street).

The impressive 20-court venue, opened in 2019, is playing host to the ninth annual Pickleball Canada National Championship 2021 from Aug. 10-15.

Patrick Galesloot, communications director for the Red Deer Pickleball Club, says there is relief now that the event has arrived.

“It is very exciting, but also overwhelming to be at this stage. We’ll find out tomorrow if all our plans work out,” he says. “We’re nervous, but when push comes to shove and several hundred people show up to play pickleball, we’re confident we have a strong, organized team that has spread the work around appropriately, and the event will be great.”

Galesloot says the final tally for competitors is 791, and they range from teenagers to octogenarians.

Last seen March 31

Missing: Eugenie Headman, 66, of Maskwacis

11h ago

mayor hopes to meet housing minister this month

Alberta demands Ottawa back off on housing funding stripped from Red Deer

Apr 02, 2026

Last seen Jan. 15

Missing: Courtney Cattleman, 17, of Maskwacis

Apr 02, 2026

With the sport’s reputation in mind as one just for older folks, he encourages Red Deerians to give pickleball a chance with the national championship right in their own backyard.

“It’s going to be a super competition, with all ages and skill levels playing. There will be intermediate players to recognized pros from across Canada,” he shares. “The 5.0 Open category is the pro level and will provide some very fun and exciting players to watch.”

The event is free to attend, and will include other attractions for spectators, from food trucks to live entertainment, and even a beer garden.

A demonstration of para-pickleball is also planned.

More information is at RedDeerPickleball.com.