Denpasar has set its sights on retaining its dominance in Bali’s pickleball circuit, with officials targeting another overall title at the Porjar (Sports Week) following last year’s success.
The city had emerged as the overall champion in the previous edition, securing 12 gold, nine silver, and five bronze medals, and is now aiming to repeat the feat.
IPF Denpasar Deputy Chairman I Komang Arya Wira Suryawan said the selection of top athletes is based on performance during the competition.
“Yes, it’s based on medal tallies and other supporting achievements,” Komang Arya said.
Athletes who perform well at the Porjar will earn direct qualification to the provincial level, although final participation will depend on allocated quotas.
“The winner will definitely qualify directly for the provincial level. Now we are waiting for the athlete quota that will be allocated by the Denpasar City Education and Culture Office. Hopefully, everything will be facilitated,” he explained.
The structure includes participation across school levels, with equal representation planned.
“Each level has six boys and six girls,” he added.
To strengthen preparations, Denpasar has lined up a training center program for selected athletes ahead of upcoming competitions, including the Mandalika event and the Bali Porsenijar.
“There will definitely be special development through the training center for the best student athletes,” he said.
Despite the ambition, challenges remain, particularly with infrastructure.
“Our challenge is the lack of a dedicated standard court; we’ve been sharing space with other sports,” he concluded.
