The Gaslamp Quarter is being transformed into an urban pickleball destination as Urban Pickleball returns to Fifth Avenue for a second straight year.<\/p>\n
This Urban Pickleball event, which starts Thursday evening, gives players the chance to play in the middle of Fifth Avenue.<\/p>\n
The sport combines elements of tennis, ping pong and badminton. According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in the U.S., with more than 24 million players.<\/p>\n
Many of those players are in San Diego, which is why the Gaslamp Quarter Association is bringing the event back.<\/p>\n
“People really enjoy the healthy aspect of being outside and playing pickleball on Fifth Avenue, which is a total experience. It’s totally different than any other pickleball venue that you would play at,” said Michael Trimble, director of the Gaslamp Quarter Association.<\/p>\n
Thirteen courts, including three pro courts, will be set up on the street. The event will also feature DJs and a vendor village.<\/p>\n
“We also do specials with all the merchants that are down in the Gaslamp, not just in the venue, but all throughout the Gaslamp Quarter. So really, it’s a great opportunity for a positive business push during that off hour,” Trimble said.<\/p>\n
Urban Pickleball starts at 4 p.m. and continues through sunset. The event takes place Thursday evenings for the next six weeks.<\/p>\n