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Explore: Pickleball gatherings; free holiday dive and brunch

Free upcoming events: Pickleball meetups on Saturday and Sunday; Free holiday dive and brunch on Saturday.
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Lyn de Souza, left, and Melanie Hansen play picklball doubles in Beacon Hill Park in Victoria on July 12, 2023. DARREN STONE, TIMES COLONIST

Join in for some very merry pickleball get-togethers

Learn how to play pickleball or brush up on your skills over the holidays at one of two free get-togethers organized by the Victoria Pickleball and Social Club, at various locations, Saturday and Sunday.

Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports in north America, with people picking up rackets for fun, exercise and improved fitness.

There is no formal instruction offered, with more experienced players offering guidance. Court shoes are recommended.

The club offers Pickleball 101 for newcomers, those less experienced, rusty or out of practice. Pickleball 102 is for novice players who know the rules and have their own balls and racquet.

Players of all ages and skill levels are welcome.

Play may be cancelled due to rain or high winds.

Both events are free to join. Pickleball 101 runs 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sunday Dec. 24 at Rosedale Park, 4110 Santa Anita Ave. Pickleball 102 runs 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 23 at Barnard Park, 300 Barnard Ave.

Get in the spirit with a holiday dive and brunch

Meet new dive buddies and explore local shores at Holiday Drop-In Dive and Brunch, a free open-water dive fit for the festive season, Saturday, Dec. 23.

Hosted by Frank Whites Dive Shop, the dive features a divemaster leading a group dive. The dive site chosen will depend on the divers taking part, the day’s environmental conditions and visibility. Ogden Point, Willis Point and Henderson Point are some of the popular destinations.

Participants must be open water divers. A scuba review must be done if participants have not been diving in the last 12 months.

Diving in Victoria can be cold depending this time of year. They recommend drysuit training, but they have wetsuits available to rent as well. Divers must be at least 16 years of age. Divers under 19 require a parental release waiver.

The event runs 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 23. meeting at the store, 721 Kings Rd. It’s free to join but there are only 24 spots available and registration is required.

After the dive, participants are invited for a free holiday brunch, with hot beverages and pancakes.

For more information, or to register, go to frankwhites.com.