August 31, 2024, 11:14 AM
August 31, 2024, 11:14 AM
Bolivians Raul Berrios and Jorge Nunez are two of the main promoters of pickleball in Bolivia. This sport, A mix of tennis, badminton and ping ponghas begun to gain ground since 2022 when it arrived in the country brought by Berríos and to which Núñez joined in 2023.
They recently presented themselves as the Bolivian duo at the Latin American Championship of the discipline that was held in Brazil and after a great performance they reached the final, finishing second. This allowed them to Bolivia be recognized and taken into account for other level tournaments to come.
The final was held on August 16 and they competed against more than 300 athletes who showed a high level. Raul and Jorge They had been preparing since last year and performed at a high level against strong rivals. Reaching the final was a milestone since for the first time two Bolivians were finalists.
In 2022 what began as a curiosity of Berrios It soon became a passion. This enthusiasm spread to others, Among them Nunez who is an emerging talent, who together with his partner friends have promoted the creation of the first pickleball club in Santa Cruz.
But the goal is not to stop here, but the aim is to inspire more Bolivians to practice this sport and create more clubs that allow the popularization of pickleballThese athletes have not only encouraged people to play, but they have also put Bolivia on the international map.
Currently, a national Match Point – Urubó tournament is being played, which began on Friday and will continue until this Sunday. The categories that were called forthey went to the open and 40+, both in singles, doubles and mixed doubles. There are cash prizes, Gio paddles and medals for the winners.