Man collapses on Vernon pickelball court and dies, tournament cancelled

A tragic incident forced the cancellation of a pickleball tournament in Vernon this weekend.

The Vernon Pickleball Association says its ‘Battle in the Palace’ mixed doubles tournament on Saturday, May 11 was cancelled mid-way through after a 49-year-old male competitor from Kelowna suddenly collapsed on the courts during a pre-game warm-up.

Despite immediate medical intervention, the man did not survive.

Richard Chambers, tournament director, said the association was “very saddened to have lost such a wonderful competitor and family man during the tournament.”

“We have protocols in place to attend to First Aid emergencies including an AED machine,” Chambers said. “We are thankful for the immediate response by our First Aid attendant and the ICU nurse who was watching a match on the adjacent court, as both provided invaluable assistance.”

Chambers added Vernon Fire Rescue was at the courts within minutes of 911 being called.

“Our hearts go out to the family, his friends and fellow pickleball players,” Chambers stated.