A group of Maui pickleball players showcased their skills at the first-ever Japan Open Pickleball Tournament held in Tokyo from December 12 to 15. Despite battling freezing temperatures, the players returned home with an impressive total of 14 medals.
Notable Victories and Medalists
Among the standout performances, Phil Hou and Kimmie Ouchi claimed gold in the 5.0 Mixed Doubles 35+ category. Marinel Robinson and Renee Zaima earned silver in the 3.5 Women’s Doubles 55+. Additionally, Sam Watson and Ayumi Shoemaker secured silver in the 4.0 Mixed Doubles 35+, while Elias Akinaka and Todd Kawasaki brought home bronze in the 5.0 Men’s Doubles 35+.
Event Details and Background
The tournament, organized by the Pickleball Japan Federation, saw over 600 players registered. It marked the first international pro pickleball tournament held in Japan. The players competed at Ariake Tennis Forest Park, the same venue that hosted tennis events during the Tokyo Olympics. This opportunity allowed them to face off against world-class competition.
Community and Competitive Spirit
Participants expressed pride in their achievements and the aloha spirit they brought to the tournament. The Maui players not only competed fiercely but also represented their community on an international stage. Their success reflects the growing popularity of pickleball as a competitive sport worldwide.
Phil Hou, a gold medalist, shared his excitement about the event.
“Competing at this level was a great experience,”. “We felt the support from our community, even from afar.”(Phil Hou)
The strong showing by Maui players at the Japan Open highlights the potential for further international competition and the growth of pickleball in Hawaii and beyond.
News in Brief: Maui Pickleball Players Shine
Maui pickleball players excelled at the inaugural Japan Open Pickleball Tournament in Tokyo, winning a total of 14 medals despite freezing temperatures. Notable victories included Phil Hou and Kimmie Ouchi’s gold in the 5.0 Mixed Doubles 35+ category. The event, hosted at Ariake Tennis Forest Park, featured over 600 players and showcased the growing popularity of pickleball on an international scale.
ALSO READ: Michelle Terrazas Claims Gold at Oakbrook Ugly Sweater Pickleball Tournament