Pickleball Gaining Momentum in Cuba : A Story of Passion and Community Building
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By FIORELLA CARLOS RAMIREZ
The phenomenon of pickleball has taken root in Cuba , thanks to the dedication and passion of Carlos López , a young tennis enthusiast turned pickleball evangelist . After learning about the sport through social media during the pandemic , Carlos was immediately attracted by its similarities to tennis and its accessibility .
Since then , he has started one of the first pickleball communities in Cuba , attracting more than 100 participants of all ages and backgrounds , bringing the discipline to various places , including the iconic Paseo del Prado in Havana , the Marina Hemingway , and picturesque places like Viñales , Trinidad , and Cienfuegos .
His efforts have already born fruit with the establishment of the Pickleball Association of Cuba . A key ally in Carlos ’ s journey is Hercilio Cabieses , a professional player and founder of the Cabieses Foundation , who is also the director of the Pickleball
World Cup held in Lima , the Peruvian capital , which brought together 14 countries in its 2023 edition and this year hopes to gather more than 32 delegations . Together , they have collaborated on initiatives to introduce Cuban youth to the sport , providing them with a new avenue for recreation and skill development .
Every pickleball lover is invited to follow Hercilio ’ s example and travel to the island to be part of clinics , workshops , and exhibition matches to continue popularizing pickleball .
Carlos ’ s vision goes beyond mere sport ; his goal is to leave a lasting legacy by empowering Cuban youth through pickleball and education . To follow Carlos ’ s inspiring journey and learn more about the growth of the sport in Cuba , follow on Instagram @ pickleball _ cuba _ association . For more information , email pickleballcubaassociation @ gmail . com . •
Back row ( l to r ): Carlos López Jr ., Carlos López and Hercilio Cabieses popularizing pickleball in Cuba .
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MAY / JUNE 2024 | MAGAZINE 73