First Rhythm & Rally Pickleball tournament happening this weekend

Pickleball players both locally and across the country are gearing up for the first-ever tournament at the world's largest indoor pickleball facility.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Pickleball players both locally and across the country are gearing up for the first-ever tournament at the world’s largest indoor Pickleball facility. The tournament, called the Georgia Candy Cane Classic, is hosted by Southern Pickleball Assocation, and it is set to take place this weekend at Rhythm and Rally in Macon.

More than 600 players from all over the country are expected to compete in the tournament, which will run throughout the weekend. The event will begin Saturday at 8 a.m. and will run through 8 p.m. Players are eagerly anticipating the tournament, and many have been practicing for weeks.

“I’m excited,” Jim Gay said. “I’ve got a mixed doubles player who I’ve never played with just coming from out of town. We’re going to practice this afternoon, and then one of my local buddies that I’ve played with, we’re going to play doubles tomorrow.”

Men’s and Women’s Doubles will be held on Saturday, December 16, followed by Mixed Doubles on Sunday, December 17.

For those who cannot attend the tournament in person, Southern Pickleball TV will be streaming the event live on their website, southernpickleballtv.com.