Melbourne’s pickleball scene was abuzz this past weekend as the HUSTL Pickleball GESAC CLASSIC tournament took place at GESAC. The event was a vibrant celebration of the sport, marked by competitive play and a strong sense of community. A diverse group of 212 players from places such as the Gold Coast, London, Ballarat, Warrnambool, Bendigo, Sale, Shepparton, Ocean Grove, Drysdale, Torquay, and metropolitan Melbourne, showcased the growing popularity and reach of pickleball.
The tournament spanned two days, with gender doubles on Saturday and mixed doubles on Sunday, providing a packed schedule of exciting matches. The atmosphere in the stadium was electric as players demonstrated their skills and sportsmanship. This year saw a notable rise in new talent making it to the podium, reflecting the rapid growth and dynamic evolution of pickleball in Victoria.
Special recognition goes to Tom Ta and Craig Jones, who once again proved their prowess by defending their title in the men’s open doubles event. Their gold medal win against some of the top players in the country reaffirmed their dominance and highlighted the high level of competition at the tournament.
Inclusivity was a standout feature of the event, with para-athlete Martyn Ford, who competes in a specially designed wheelchair, and his partner Kellie Murphy playing against able-bodied competitors. For many participants and spectators, sharing the court with Martyn and Kellie was a highlight of the tournament, embodying the spirit of inclusiveness that pickleball is known for.
In its second year, the GESAC CLASSIC has quickly earned a reputation as one of Victoria’s best-run tournaments. Players praised the seamless organization and the opportunity to meet and compete with fellow enthusiasts from various regions. The overall feedback highlighted the enjoyable and welcoming atmosphere of the event.
David Lurie, the tournament organizer, announced plans for an expanded series of tournaments in 2025. With 6-8 events planned across Victoria, Lurie aims to provide more local opportunities for competitive play. His focus on enhancing the player experience includes well-structured pool sizes and event formats that ensure participants get ample match play and an enjoyable tournament environment.
We cannot wait for next year’s GESAC CLASSIC! (chokers classic)
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