Pedal to the metal to grow padel in SA

Spanish two-time world padel champion Willy Lahoz says he plans to take the sport to new heights in South Africa.

The game, which is believed to be among the fastest growing sports in the world, is described as a mix of squash and tennis.

The project is the brainchild of Balwin Properties.

Lahoz, who is on a five-year contract with Balwin Padel, says he aims to introduce the sport to people from different backgrounds at an affordable price.

“In the beginning the sports started, like, expensive. You have to book a court, we need a specific – kit it’s not the same as you use for running. The expensive thing is booking the courts and the kit.

We are trying with Balwin to have a good plan to develop our padels within the country with a good price, especially because there has to be special prices for residents, and I think it is a good opportunity for everybody. All facilities should be open to all people. It will be great if we can create more space and prices affordable for everybody,” adds Lahoz.

Balwin Properties CEO, Steve Brookes says there is a high demand for padel courts in the country.

He says these need to be developed in spaces that are easily accessible to the public.

“South Africans can also step into the world arena, that would be fantastic; just look what Siya Kolisi done with rugby. Rugby we are dominant and we have done fantastically for this country worldwide. So, the guys want to build a worldwide world team. We run a lot of Americanos and tournaments.”