BY NURIN PATRA
KUCHING: Registration for the Borneo Pickleball International Tournament (BPIT) 2024 has reached 80 per cent of the 500-player capacity, with more entries expected before the Aug 31 deadline.
Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah announced that the BPIT, the largest pickleball tournament in Malaysia and the first in Borneo, is set to attract approximately 1,500 spectators.
The event will take place from Oct 8 to 14 at PIKABOL, Asia’s largest pickleball complex, and will offer a total prize pool of RM20,000.
“The tournament will feature three primary categories: the Team Event, Individual Events for Veterans, and Individual Events for Novices. Each category will offer prizes sponsored by Skechers and Starbucks,” he said during a press conference at the Baitul Makmur II building on Thursday (Aug 8).
The Team Events will include sub-categories such as Mixed Doubles, Women’s Doubles, Men’s Doubles, Veteran Doubles, and Men’s Singles. A maximum of 48 teams can participate, each with a registration fee of RM1,200. Prizes for these events will range from RM1,250 to RM10,000 and will include medals and trophies.
In the Individual Events for Veterans, open to any gender combination, a maximum of 24 players can compete. The registration fee is RM100 per player, with prizes ranging from RM125 to RM1,000, including medals.
The Individual Events for Novices will also be open to any gender combination, with up to 24 pairs allowed to participate. Registration costs RM50 per pair, with gold, silver, and bronze medals available.
On the final day of the tournament, 20 lucky draws will offer prizes from Skechers and Starbucks to all players and registered spectators.
The BPIT 2024 has secured a strong lineup of sponsors and partners, including the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts (MTCP).
“We are committed to supporting such events, as they contribute positively to the community, whether in music, sports, food, or culture. I extend my thanks to the organisers of the Borneo Pickleball International Tournament,” said Abdul Karim.
The Malaysia Convention and Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB) is contributing as a Silver Sponsor, while Skechers and PIKABOL are Bronze Sponsors. Corporate sponsors include Sarawak Energy Berhad, WTK Holdings Sdn Bhd, Odysportsz, Decor Hauz Interior, and Starbucks.
Interested participants can register for a Pickleball Global ID at Pickleball Global. Registration for BPIT will close on Aug 31, 2024.
