Local families and first-time players took to the courts as Smash Padel Whitstable‘s free community event introduced more people to the world’s fastest-growing racket sport.

Smash Padel Whitstable welcomed local residents to its free PadelFest event on Saturday 26 September, with players of all ages enjoying the opportunity to try padel in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

Held at the club’s home at Whitstable Rugby Football Club, the event gave beginners the chance to get on court and experience first-hand why padel is attracting so many new players across the UK. Players took part in introductory sessions, social games and the popular One Point Live Challenge.

Craig Meredith, Manager at Smash Padel Whitstable, said: “We were really pleased with how the day went. It was fantastic to see so many people giving padel a go for the first time and leaving with smiles on their faces. One of our main goals was to show people just how accessible and enjoyable the sport can be. We hope that everyone was made to feel welcome and many left keen to get back on court again.

“The event may be over but it’s only the beginning for many of the people who joined us. We’re building a fantastic padel community here in Whitstable and we’d love to welcome even more people onto the courts over the coming months.”

Padel is known for being easy to learn and suitable for a wide range of ages and abilities, making it an ideal sport for families and newcomers. The success of PadelFest showed the growing interest in the sport across Whitstable and the surrounding area.

Smash Padel Whitstable is now encouraging anyone who missed the event to give padel a try. The club offers free Intro to Padel sessions and regular opportunities for beginners to get involved.

Anyone interested in playing padel in Whitstable can find out more, book a court or join a beginner session through the Nettla app or by contacting Smash Padel Whitstable directly.