IN A SPIRITED break from the property market, estate agents traded their portfolios for pickleball paddles at the inaugural Dykes van Heerden Estate Agent Pickleball Tournament, held recently at the Amanzimtoti Sports Complex.

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This lively community event, kicking off at midday, saw real estate teams from across the region come together for a day of sport, camaraderie and friendly competition. Organised by Dykes van Heerden, the tournament had special assistance from Michelle Kriese of Pickleball Africa, who not only facilitated the event but also introduced many first-timers to the fast-paced, rapidly growing sport.

A total of seven teams representing leading real estate agencies, including RE/MAX, Chas Everitt, Pam Golding, Dormehl and Wakefields, hit the courts for some heated matches. Pickleball, which blends elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis, has been gaining traction in South Africa, and the tournament added another spark to the sport’s popularity.

After a thrilling afternoon of tight contests, RE/MAX Team Blue emerged victorious, claiming the championship title. Chas Everitt took a respectable second place, while Wakefields rounded out the podium with a strong third-place finish.

Xandre Ferreira of Dykes van Heerden was excited with the success of the event.

“We are thrilled to have hosted this tournament. It wasn’t just a fantastic way to unite the estate agent community but also a great platform to showcase the fun, high-energy game of pickleball. We’re already looking forward to making this an annual tradition,” she said.

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