The Wahkiakum County Eagle - Established as The Skamokawa Eagle in 1891

The inaugural Cathlamet Pickleball Tournament was a smashing success, as more than 20 participants battled on the courts during Bald Eagle Days.

The winners of the tournament were Cathlamet resident Julie Arness and her Pickleball/tennis partner, Shirley Derby of Longview.

Despite rising heat, all the players appeared to have a good time and stayed hydrated. "This was really great," Cathlamet resident Anita Adams said. "We need to keep this going." Adams, and her husband, Chuck, were instrumental in helping to set up the tournament, putting up nets, bringing water and snacks for the players and then taking down and putting away the temporary nets.

"We want to thank the Town of Cathlamet for its generous contribution of the equipment for both Pickleball and corn hole," said Robert Stowe, Tournament Director, "as well as exceptional help from the Cathlamet Public Works Department for lining the courts, ordering and delivering the equipment and opening the bathrooms for the tournament despite recent vandalism."

A Corn Hole Tournament was also scheduled, but due to the length of the Pickleball Tournament, it was cancelled. "A significant number of Pickleball players were signed up to participate," said Stowe, "but the heat and fierce competition tired most of the participants. The tournament will be rescheduled."

The group was enthusiastic about forming a Cathlamet Pickleball Club. Further planning is needed and there will be a meeting to discuss formation of a club.