Ireland has just unveiled a groundbreaking addition to its sports landscape with the grand opening of the nation’s only floating padel court, located at the picturesque Knockbracken Reservoir in Carryduff. This innovative development marks a significant step for Northern Ireland’s padel pioneers, Let’s Go Padel, as they propel the world’s fastest-growing racket sport to unprecedented new heights, quite literally, on water.
Padel, a dynamic hybrid combining elements of tennis and squash, has rapidly gained global traction due to its engaging nature. Typically played in doubles on an enclosed court roughly a third the size of a standard tennis court, its distinctive feature is the surrounding glass walls that players can use to their advantage, making for exciting and strategic rallies.
Let’s Go Padel, a sister company to the highly popular adventure resort, Let’s Go Hydro, has demonstrated ambitious vision for the sport’s accessibility across Northern Ireland. Following the successful launch of their initial courts in Carryduff and Ballyclare just last month, the company has announced ambitious plans to establish 50 new padel court openings before Christmas, with a further 50 slated for rapid development thereafter, showcasing a commitment to widespread adoption.
The newest jewel in their crown is the exclusive floating padel court, strategically positioned at the Carryduff site within the Knockbracken Reservoir. This unique installation at the home of Let’s Go Hydro underscores the innovative spirit of the enterprise, transforming a natural aquatic environment into a cutting-edge sporting arena and further cementing the region’s status as a hub for unique recreational activities.
This bespoke floating court offers a novel and exhilarating way for enthusiasts and newcomers alike to experience padel. Pete Boyle, the visionary entrepreneur behind Let’s Go Padel, highlights its versatility, noting its ideal suitability for private parties, distinctive corporate team-building events, or simply for individuals seeking an adventurous and memorable sporting experience beyond conventional settings.
Feedback on the floating court has been overwhelmingly positive, as Boyle affirmed: “The floating court is a lot of fun and so far it has been really well received by anyone who has played on it.” He further articulated the company’s unwavering determination to significantly develop the sport within Northern Ireland, emphasizing the necessity of maximizing court availability to foster its growth and popularity across the community.
The global surge in padel’s popularity is evident in impressive statistics. Just 18 months ago, the UK boasted only 300 courts, a figure projected to skyrocket to 2,000 by year-end. Internationally, the sport thrives, with an astonishing 10,000 courts each in Spain and Italy. Despite the anticipated rapid expansion in Northern Ireland, Boyle remains confident that local demand will mirror the global trend, driven by the sport’s inherent appeal.
Ultimately, the essence of padel lies in its inherent sense of enjoyment and accessibility, qualities that the floating court magnifies. Boyle remarked, “There is a real sense of fun about padel and that’s why we thought the floating court would make a wonderful addition to our offering.” Currently, Let’s Go Padel provides 13 padel courts for hire across its Carryduff and Ballyclare locations, alongside a pickleball court at the Carryduff site, underscoring their comprehensive approach to racket sports entertainment and adventure tourism.
Leave a Reply