WATCH: Ladies glow in the dark during padel marathon
A total of 54 ladies took part in the spectacle.
It was third time lucky for the inaugural Neon Ultra Padel Marathon as more than 50 female padel enthusiasts lit up the courts at Benoni Country Club on May 16.
After three weather-related postponements, the event finally came to life in spectacular fashion, with players dressed in vibrant neon outfits, face paint and multi-coloured hairstyles, transforming the Padel Plus courts into a glowing spectacle.
The women took part in a six-hour relay, combining fun and fitness while raising funds for St Francis Care Centre.
“It’s third time lucky. We were postponed a couple of times because of the rain, but tonight is ladies’ night and we have 54 padel players joining us,” said organiser Babushka Fanicchi.
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Fanicchi described the marathon as a resounding success, with the men’s session kicking off on May 15 before the women raised the bar with their high-energy neon theme.
“It’s a charity event and all proceeds are going to St Francis Care Centre in Boksburg. It’s great to see the Ekurhuleni community come together for a worthy cause. We’ve got neon lights everywhere — we’re literally playing in the dark with everything glowing,” she said.
The first-of-its-kind event in Ekurhuleni was inspired by the main sponsor, Energizer’s headlamp challenge concept, adding a unique twist to the growing sport.
“They have these headlamps that we play with, so we knew we needed the dark. From there, we decided to build something fun around it — a challenge for the community where everyone can dress up and enjoy themselves while supporting a great cause,” Fanicchi explained.
She added that the decision to support St Francis was an easy one.
“We’ve worked with them before. They’re a fantastic organisation that cares for children and adults in need. We’re just happy we could put something together for them.”
Fanicchi also extended her gratitude to all participants and sponsors — including Energizer, Danny the Dog, Aesthetics by Flamingo and Fairway Foam Car Wash — for helping make the event a glowing success.
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