Image Source: CityA.M.
The City of London has achieved the prestigious Guinness World Record title for hosting the Longest Marathon Playing Padel.
A group of four players, hailed as the ‘awesome foursome,’ dedicated two full days to accomplish an impressive feat of almost 40 continuous hours of padel playing.
This remarkable endeavour was conducted in collaboration with The Lord Mayor’s Appeal City Giving Day, aiming to raise funds for National Numeracy, MQ Mental Health Research, and The Duke of Edinburgh Award.
The event was an integral part of the inaugural Padel Festival and unfolded on a newly installed padel court by Central London Alliance in partnership with Aldgate Connect BID, Blue Orchid Hospitality, Global Hospitality Services, and EC BID.
Zoe Barwick, BID Director, expressed, “Showcasing this record-breaking achievement at the first-ever Padel Festival in the eastern part of the City aligns with our strategy to create memorable place-making events.
This historic success is a testament to the strong collaborative efforts led by Primera’s BIDs.”
Tony Matharu, the founding Director of Central London Alliance, Chairman of Blue Orchid Hospitality, and now holder of the Guinness World Records title, shared his pride in putting a global spotlight on London.
He emphasised the city as the optimal place to live, work, invest, visit, and study, showcasing creativity, diversity, resilience, and a ‘can-do’ attitude in overcoming obstacles.
The temporary padel court, set up to boost footfall in the Square Mile and aid the City’s economic recovery, supported the City of London Corporation’s Destination City initiative.
Image Credit: CityA.M.
Since its opening, the court has seen exceptional success, achieving maximum occupancy levels for all padel courts in the UK, consistently booked throughout the summer, including weekends.
Tony Matharu looks to the future, stating, “Padel, like all sports, has the power to unite, overcome barriers, and promote a healthy and active lifestyle.
We envision our padel court becoming a hub where workers and visitors embrace London’s pioneering spirit, enjoy the city, and foster lasting relationships throughout the summer and beyond.”
Under the leadership of CLA and its partners, the court provided free padel coaching sessions and court usage for local schools, families, residents, and workers.
Nadia Perrier, Director of Central London Alliance C.I.C. (CLA) and organiser of the record attempt, expressed immense pride in the players’ courage and determination. She extended gratitude to the numerous supporters who played a crucial role in ensuring London and the City achieved a new world record.
This story was first published by CityA.M.
