White Rock pickleball tournament draws record participation

A weekend pickleball tournament at White Rock’s Centennial Park courts was a “super success” with a record number of participants, according to main organizer Mike McDonald. The event carried an Aloha and tropical theme, with co-operative weather.

White Rock Pickleball Association co-chair John Bogar said in an email that the volunteer-run association organizes play, maintains courts and advocates for the sport. Committee member Rod Lowry estimated that more than 400 White Rock residents play at Centennial Park, including 218 local residents who are WRPA members and others who play casually.

Lowry said the WRPA has more than 600 members, while at least as many non-members use the Centennial Park courts. Bogar described Lowry as a “super volunteer” who is at the courts virtually every day, helps maintain them and supports compliance with safety and court rules. Lowry also helped secure the installation of an AED defibrillator near the courts.

Bogar said local players face limited off-season options because recreation policies across 16 Avenue give Surrey residents priority for Surrey recreation programs. Alternatives include limited space in local church gyms or travelling to private clubs farther away.

He said volunteers such as Lowry illustrate what an all-weather pickleball facility in White Rock could achieve. With an appropriate facility and a strong volunteer base, Bogar said much of its operation and maintenance could be volunteer-supported, reducing costs for city taxpayers.

Pickleball is increasingly attracting children, families, working adults and retirees, Bogar said. He said White Rock could become a year-round pickleball centre of excellence on the Peninsula, where people of all ages can play, learn, compete and stay active.