Pickleball Magazine 4-4 WD | Page 72

TOURNAMENT FEATURE RECORD TURNOUT I National Senior Games in Albuquerque t was the longest and largest pickleball tournament ever held for seniors.  From June 14 to June 26 in Albuquerque, New Mexico, nearly 1,200 participants ranging from 50 to 92 years young gathered to play in the 2019 National Senior Games National Pickleball Tournament. The pickleball event was part of the NSGA National Senior Games, which drew over 13,000 senior athletes from all over the country. Pickleball was broken down into two five-day sessions, with players 50, 55 and 60 years old in the first session and those 65, 70, 75, 80, 85 and 90 years of age in the second session. Outdoor courts were used for all age groups except those 80 and older who played on indoor courts. Medals were awarded for first, second and third place and ribbons for fourth through eighth places. Southwest Regional Director Larry Lite and his wife, Judy, sponsored a welcome pizza party for players on practice days for each session. Tournament Directors David Jordan and Tom Burkhart of the USAPA coordinated the event, while the local Albuquerque recreation department and its team of volunteers helped keep the tournament running smoothly. Tien Nguyen, Gold Medalis t in Men's 50-5 4 4 Singles Carrina De Women's 50-5 Stacie Barron, s, le Erica Gonza ew el Buzby, Lori B Vera, Veronica Albuquerque Police Department Horse Mounted Unit at the pickleball courts with David Jordan, Adrienne Palacio and Nancy Jordan 70 TO SUBSCRIBE CALL 888.308.3720 OR GO TO THEPICKLEBALLMAG.COM