Padel enthusiasts in the Garden Route region are being urged to join the Garden Route Padel Opens 2026, a competition where players represent their towns. Qualifiers will run from early February through March, leading to finals in George. The event features various divisions for men and mixed teams.
The Garden Route Padel Opens 2026 (GRPO) aims to highlight local talent in this fast-growing racket sport. Players from towns stretching from Knysna to Mossel Bay can compete in qualifiers hosted at regional padel clubs, fostering rivalry and community pride.
Qualifier events are set to begin in early February 2026. The schedule includes:
- 7 February at Liv Padel in Knysna, supported by Deep Heat;
- 8 February at Africa Padel in Plettenberg Bay, backed by Seeff;
- 21 February at Oudtshoorn Padel, sponsored by Henque Waste;
- 28 February at Garden Route Padel in George, with support from Regus George;
- 7 March at Mossel Bay Padel, aided by Rauch Gertenbach.
Competitors can enter categories such as the Men's Advanced Doubles Division for R600, Mixed Beginners Americano, and Mixed Intermediate for R250 per Americano event. Successful qualifiers will advance to the GRPO Finals on 14 March 2026 at Virgin Active Padel Club in George, where one ultimate champion will be crowned.
Organizers emphasize that spots are limited and filling quickly, encouraging early registration to secure a place. This regional tournament provides a platform for players to compete locally while aiming for the finals, blending competition with local representation.