SPORT NEWS - It may look like a laid-back beach bat pastime at first glance, but padel is far more competitive than it seems. The beauty is that just about anyone can play. If you can move on a court with a bat and a ball, you're in the game.
The Garden Route Padel Opens 2026 took place at the Virgin Active Padel Club in York Street last Saturday, 14 March.
The day kicked off with a players' briefing and welcome, followed by a full programme that included intermediate and beginner Americano sessions, as well as a men's doubles tournament, officially opened by the Garden Route district mayor, Marais Kruger.
Off the court, a festival-like atmosphere was in full swing with lucky draws, crowd challenges such as a target smash, Beat the Coach and a dance challenge, alongside some food stalls, a kids' zone and live entertainment.
The action wrapped up at 14:00 with a prize-giving ceremony and closing remarks, made possible by generous sponsors.
Intermediate American players: Jackie and Helgard Snyman (George), Peter Szeli (Knysna) and Johan Janse van Vuuren (Oudtshoorn). Photos: Michelle Pienaar
The action wrapped up at 14:00 with a prize-giving ceremony and closing remarks, made possible by generous sponsors.
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