LONG BEACH >> The Belmont Athletic Club on 2nd Street will play host to an historic racquetball tournament next week, as the Long Beach Open sees the first-ever all-doubles pro racquetball tournament.

With top professionals playing on the BAC’s four courts, the event will feature a purse of over $25,000.

The Round of 16 will begin at 6 p.m. April 9 with finals taking place April 11.

Kane Waselenchuk, the record-holding nine-Time IRT champion and 10-Time U.S. Open champion, will team up with San Luis Obispo resident Ben Croft. They are the reigning U.S. Open doubles champions and will be among the favorites.

“I’m very excited about the Long Beach Open, as the Belmont Athletic Club has a long-standing, deep-rooted racquetball contingency, and Southern California is the perfect place for a huge doubles event,” said Jason Mannino, IRT President. “I’m hoping that the top outdoor doubles teams will come and test their skills at this first of its kind event.”

Tournament director Brian Pineda will also compete in the tournament. Pineda is a Long Beach resident who currently works as a commentator on the IRT Network, in addition to playing on the IRT and World Outdoor Racquetball tour.

Matches will be live-streamed on the IRT-Network all weekend.

“We are very excited to bring the top IRT players and local amateurs to Long Beach, where they will show why racquetball is the fastest, most athletic, and exciting racquet sport in the world,” Mannino said.

Those who want to watch the action can do so at Murphy’s Irish Pub, which will be the on-site host for the event, allowing patrons a venue to watch the live feed on HD TVs. Dogz Bar & Grill, located down the street, will also host a live feed of the event.