VENTNOR – It will be a happening weekend in the city when hundreds of pickleballers descend upon the city to play in the Funky Pickle Classic. But you don’t have to be a baller to enjoy the activities surrounding the massive event, which merges America’s fastest growing sport with a block party atmosphere that includes great food and drink, engaging social activities, and friendly competition. All are welcome to come out and enjoy the music festival that is an integral part of the tournament.
Although there will not be a concert at the Newport Avenue beachfront park Saturday night, the action moves a few blocks north to the recreation center on Suffolk Avenue where concert goers will enjoy live music both Friday and Saturday nights. The unforgettable weekend of sport and music includes two bands each night.
On Friday, the Voice of Ventnor Ricky Stevens will entertain at 5:30 p.m. and the popular band The Usual Suspects will play at 6:30 p.m. On Saturday night, it’s the Legacy Band at 6 p.m. The Loop takes the stage at 7:30 p.m.
Winners rejoyce in the Funky Pickle held in Ventnor.According to the Funky Pickle website, tournament game rounds are timed to the music, beginning when the music starts and ends when the music stops using rally-style scoring. In the event of a tie when the music stops, players will play for a final point to determine the winner.
Friday’s offerings include a Kids Clinic at 4 p.m. Free for children ages 8-13. The celebrity pro-am Commissioners Cup will be held from 3-5 p.m. with Ventnor and Margate commissioners facing off on the court.
On Saturday, Funky Team Tourney will be held from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. in a four-person format of two men and two women. Four competitions will be held based on the team’s maximum aggregate rating.
Atlantic Medical Imaging is Funky Pickle’s presenting sponsor. Proceeds benefit the AMI Foundation and the Dr. Jan Astin Mobile Digital Mammography Van, which travels throughout the state to provide breast cancer screenings for women who do not have health insurance or have limited access to healthcare.
Copyright Access Network 2024
