Hudson Pickleball Classic to benefit the lighting project at Barlow Farm Park

The Hudson Pickleball Classic, presented by Great Lakes Honda & Hyundai, will take place Memorial Day weekend, Friday, May 24 through Sunday, May 26.

This event will serve as a fundraiser to benefit the project to add lighting to the tennis and pickleball courts at Barlow Farm Park, 1965 Barlow Road in Hudson. All skill levels and ages are welcome to register for this community event at the Barlow Farm Park Courts.

Pickleball, a sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, has rapidly grown in popularity across the country. The game is played on a court with a net, and participants use paddles to hit a perforated plastic ball. It's known for being accessible to players of all ages and skill levels.

The Hudson Pickleball Classic features various divisions, including men's and women's singles, men's and women's doubles, and mixed doubles. The event will also include clinics taught by certified pickleball instructors for beginners, intermediate, and advanced players.

A Corporate Pickleball Challenge will take place Friday, May 24 with local businesses getting the opportunity to showcase their skills while networking with each other. A parent/child tournament will end the weekend Sunday evening.

There will be food trucks on site at various times during the tournament as well as local businesses showcasing their wellness opportunities.

Hugo Sandberg, tournament director, highlighted the importance of the Hudson Pickleball Classic in promoting health and wellness within the community as well as benefiting the lighting project.

"Pickleball is a fantastic way for people to stay active and connect with others," Sandberg said. "We're thrilled to see such a diverse group of registrants who will have a great time and benefit many with the lighting of the courts.

All registrants will get a commemorative shirt. Awards will be given to those placing first, second and third in their divisions. Any questions can be directed to Sandberg, 330-388-3480 or hudsonohcourtlighting@gmail.com. Details also can be found at https://hudsonpball.royalpickleball.com.

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Hudson Pickleball Classic to help raise funds for court lighting