Discover Greensboro: Winter | Spring 2020

PICKLEBALL Racket-tacular! On an afternoon last summer, neither the humidity nor the threat of a downpour deterred the Walkers and their grandsons from a jaunt to Smith Community Park. There was a little friendly smack talk, and a whole lot of furious swishing of paddles. This east Greensboro neighborhood park – right outside the Smith Active Adult Center on Fairview Street – is home to the City’s newest attraction: six outdoor pickleball courts. Greensboro residents like the Walkers have been waiting for years to have outdoor space to play this popular sport. “We like the exercise,” said Bonnie Walker, watching her husband Steve play a match with their 12-year-old grandson Lucas Bacon, of Raleigh. “We like the people.” Greensboro Parks and Recreation has three outdoor court locations open from dawn until dusk daily for open play. The department also offers beginners clinics for people who are new to the sport. Pickleball is one of the fastest growing leisure activities in the country. The USA Pickleball Association has had a 650 percent increase in membership since 2013. Pickleball is a racket sport that can be played in pairs or by individuals. Game rules are similar to ping-pong, but play requires movements more akin to tennis. Courts are smaller and games are shorter in duration than a tennis match, making it popular with older active adults. “It is not as taxing physically but it’s an excellent workout,” said Parks and Recreation Planner Vonda Martin. “Anybody can play it.” Want to play? Monthly clinics | open play daily Greensboro Sportsplex, Smith Community Park, Lake Daniel Park More info: www.greensboro-nc.gov/pickleball Admission is free

KAYAKING 101 New or beginner paddlers build confidence and skills on the water. Class covers water safety, fitting life vest and kayak, getting in/out of the boat, launching from shore, and proper paddle strokes. Lake Brandt 13+ | weekly May to August 336-373-3741 nature exploration. End with a fun activity or craft to take home. Come prepared to actively participate with your child. Lake Higgins 0-5 years | weekly 336-373-3739 NIGHT PADDLES Participants enjoy a sunset kayaking or paddle boarding at one Greensboro city lake every Wednesday and third Friday May to August. Participants can choose to paddle with a friend or a guide. Lake Higgins, Lake Brandt, Lake Townsend All ages $ $$ LITTLES ON THE LAKE Discover nature beginning with a story, followed by outdoor, hands-on

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