Best in Show !
Despite the rain , this year ’ s Tournament of Champions did not disappoint .
By Kyle Klein
TOURNAMENT DIRECTOR
The 2021 Jigsaw Health Tournament of Champions took place August 18-22 in Brigham City , Utah , and was filled with victories from big names as well as breakthrough wins for some rising stars .
Ben Johns and his partners Simone Jardim and Collin Johns took home titles in Mixed and Men ’ s Doubles . While Jessie Irvine and Catherine Parenteau took the top title for Women ’ s Doubles , two new champions — JW Johnson and Anna Leigh Waters — came out on top for Men ’ s and Women ’ s Singles . The Sr . Pro champions this year included Thunder Lopez and John Sperling in the men ’ s event , Cammy MacGregor and Jennifer Dawson ( defending champions ) in Sr . Women ’ s Doubles , and Dayne Gingrich with Chris Karges taking home the Sr . Mixed Doubles title .
The event was a huge success with enthusiastic crowds . Even though rain impacted three of the four days , all 1,291 matches were played ! This tournament was a USA Pickleball “ Golden Ticket ” national pre-registration qualifier as well . In total there were 142 golden tickets given to event winners of all skill levels and ages !
The 2021 TOC will be remembered for the high level of play and the determination of the event staff who , despite the weather challenges , made sure every player , professional and amateur , played their scheduled matches . TOC is a players ’ tournament for sure ! •
PHOTOS BY CODY WOLFORD