In its inaugural year, the Greater Ohio Valley Pickleball Invitational is drawing pickleballers from 12 different states. There are almost 200 players who have registered for the tournament which will be held at the Owensboro Convention Center on February 8-10. The Invitational will consist of men’s and women’s singles on Friday, men’s and women’s doubles on Saturday and mixed doubles on Sunday.
“We have players coming in from as far as Alabama and Kansas. We can’t wait for them to see our city — especially the beautiful downtown riverfront,” said Rene Kuegel, Greater Ohio Valley Pickleball Association President.
A cross between table tennis and badminton, and played with a wiffle type ball, pickleball has been dubbed the fastest growing sport in the United States.
“In Owensboro, we are constantly looking for new ways to bring visitors into our community. We’re a sports city. Pickleball is a great fit,” said Jared Bratcher, Visit Owensboro Sports Marketing Director.
Registration has officially closed for the event, but the public is invited to come watch the action for free.
“I think people are curious about pickleball,” said Kuegel. “It appeals to everyone as evident by the age range that take up the sport.”
