Julian Kiewietz

Padel4Good’s Breast Cancer Awareness Tournament, in partnership with Miss World South Africa (MWSA), went pink with a purpose for the latest tournament at the Virgin Active Padel Centre in Paarden Eiland.

Padel4Good, a non-profit organization that aims to help women and children across the Western Cape affected by gender-based violence, abuse, poverty, and hunger, zoomed in on breast cancer awareness for last weekend’s action, which was hosted by MWSA top-10 finalist, Jesmika Singh in conjunction with the Padel4Good team.

Erin Peters and Alex Crause walked away victorious at this past weekend's Padel4Good tournament. John Hishin, Cape Town Sports Photography

Padel enthusiasts competed regardless of rankings and the focus was firmly on having fun and encouraging education around the disease, which affects one in 27 women and one in 943 men in South Africa.

The event was the perfect precursor to the upcoming mixed tournament, which will take place next week Friday at the same venue. The fixture will offer just 16 spots with 32 players (combined Level 4-5 for teams on Playtomic).

Singh, a breast cancer awareness advocate, praised Padel4Good for the platform they provided.

“I contacted Shaheen at Virgin Active Padel Waterfront to set up this tournament because of padel’s significant reach in Cape Town,” said Singh, who lost her mother to breast cancer at 14.

“The tournament aimed to provide a safe space for people to discuss their personal experiences and offer support to each other. We need more tournaments like this that combine enjoyable activities with educational and emotional support.”

Singh also believes that awareness campaigns not only help people to a better understanding of breast cancer and the importance of early detection, but also greatly assists in improving survival rates.

“In association with major organizations that amplify our message, like MWSA and Padel4Good, I believe we can change many lives. At the end of the day, access to resources, understanding the disease or knowing how to do self exams can mean the difference in disease outcome.

“These events provide an outlet for discussing concerns and experiences, and are rooted in supporting those in need.”

Singh organized prize sponsors valued around R25 000. The proceeds from Padel4Good's breast cancer awareness event will go to MWSA in support of the MWSA Beauty With A Purpose fund, which supports various humanitarian causes.

“Padel4Good has provided an excellent platform for this initiative. Working with Kathleen to bring our vision to life has been a pleasure. The success of such an event relies heavily on participant involvement, and I am grateful for the support received.”