Sweethearts team up at pickleball tournament

The Canyon Lake Pickleball Club held its annual Valentine’s Tournament for sweethearts and singles on Saturday. The club was divided into two separate groups and the 15 couples battled to the end against each other in a grueling best of six matches format.

“Seven of the couples were either married or dating each other,” said Steve Libring, club secretary. “The other eight couples were partnered up as a ‘couple’ just for the day.”

Group One winners were First Place, Nancy Contreras and Carlos Hansen, Second Place, Kimberly Keigwin and Hank Robles and Third Place, Jassibeth Oro and Chris Hempel.

Canyon Lake Pickleball Club Valentines Tournament Group Two winners were First Place, Chelle Hass and Farzad Adib, Second Place, Jamie Medford and Val Gambina and Third Place, Diane and Steve Libring. Photo Provided by Steve Libring

Group Two winners were First Place, Chelle Hass and Farzad Adib, Second Place, Jamie Medford and Val Gambina and Third Place, Diane and Steve Libring.

“Pickleball courts are popping up all over the world and even on cruise ships,” Steve said. “Canyon Lake is blessed with some of the most beautiful courts with amazing lake views that make it a beautiful place even to come and watch the sport as many did over the weekend.”

Pickleball Club President Paul Hawker agrees.

“Pickleball’s explosive growth is due to its appeal to a wide audience,” Paul said. “Come on down to the courts, you’ll be sure to find a member playing.”