Pickleball, the new racket game sensation, has well and truly arrived in Negombo. Run by Pipinya, the company that launched pickleball in Sri Lanka, they use the Jetwing Beach Hotel tennis court which has been converted into two pickleball courts with floodlights.
An opening weekend in December had lots of curious participants turn up and lots of fun was had by all. The first Negombo tournament was held over a weekend in Spring and attracted over 50 entrants from Colombo as well as locals.
The courts are available to book between 4pm-10pm every night. A QR Code on the court fencing enables you to book instantly and pay online. Currently the cost for one hour is Rs1,500 per person or Rs4,000 per court. Paddles and balls are available to use. A Pipinya WhatsApp Group enables players to find opponents and partners for games. Special offer for ladies, Wednesday play for half price.
Pickleball is a cross between tennis, table tennis and badminton. Played using graphite paddles and a hollow ball it is a game that can be enjoyed by all, regardless of age, sex or ability. Singles, doubles and mixed doubles are all played.
Coaching is available on request. All regular players actively encourage bystanders to ‘have a go’ which has led to some fun evenings when whole families holidaying in Negombo have played together.
Jetwing Beach’s Grill Street, is next door offering a good selection of street food and a bar so players and spectators can get something to eat or drink during the evening.
Parking and toilets are on site.
For more information go to http://www.pipinya.com
Janet's Journal 
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