HURRICANE – Pickleball players of all skill levels are ready to battle for the ball on Hurricane City’s newly completed pickleball courts this Pioneer Day weekend during the city’s first ever pickleball tournament.

Hurricane Mayor Tom Hirschi and members of the city council are hosting a grand opening dedication party at the pickleball courts, 57 S. 200 W., at 6 p.m. on Friday. Pickleball players will enjoy six state-of-the-art courts, which sit on the grounds of the Hurricane Community Center.

Following the ribbon cutting ceremony, a double elimination tournament gets under way with mixed doubles playing Friday night at 7 p.m.  On Saturday evening, men’s doubles and women’s doubles face off at 7 p.m., with games finishing up around 11 p.m.

The public is invited to this festive event, which includes food and great seating to watch the evening’s competition.

Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in the United States and is rapidly sweeping the nation, said Steve Garcia, a pickleball enthusiast who also volunteers for the city overseeing the pickleball courts and tournaments.

“We have put on several free clinics to introduce the sport with overwhelming support and participation,” he said. “This sport is popular with all age groups, male and female. Our local sporting goods store has completely sold out his inventory twice since the courts have opened to the public.”

For those who just want to try the game first, Hurricane City has pickleball paddles and balls to loan and Classic Sports rents the equipment for a nominal fee. For more information visit www.cityofhurricane.com