Lucas Town, a rising star in wheelchair pickleball, showcased his talent at the 2024 Skechers English Nationals held in Bolton, claiming a well-deserved bronze medal. The 17-year-old from Huddersfield joined a record-breaking crowd of competitors in what has become one of the UK’s biggest pickleball events, drawing over 1,000 players to Bolton Arena. While proud of his achievement, Town expressed a desire for a higher podium spot, given his past successes that include two gold medals and a silver. His comments reflect both satisfaction and ambition, hinting at his determination to continue refining his skills in future tournaments.
Reflecting on the nature of the competition, Town acknowledged the role of luck and teamwork in achieving high rankings. With the tournament format and the mix of new players joining each year, he noted the variability in performance. Despite these challenges, Town commended his teammates and celebrated the overall spirit of the event, emphasizing how competitive yet rewarding it was to participate.
Pickleball, a fast-growing racket sport, has captured widespread interest in the UK due to its accessibility and engaging gameplay. Originating as a children’s backyard game in the United States in 1965, pickleball has evolved into a sport for all ages, with both indoor and outdoor matches. The English Nationals, held from October 31 to November 3, brought together players from across the nation, featuring a wheelchair doubles event in which athletes could shine and compete for individual honors.
Town expressed excitement about the rapid growth of pickleball in England, particularly its appeal for athletes with disabilities. He believes that the sport’s inclusive nature and low barriers to entry have been crucial to its rise in popularity, and he anticipates even greater visibility for pickleball in the future. With more media coverage, he hopes pickleball will inspire others to join, highlighting its potential as a leader in accessible sports.
As pickleball continues to expand its reach in England, events like the Skechers English Nationals demonstrate the sport’s promising future. This year’s event set a milestone with a record number of participants, cementing its place as the second largest national pickleball tournament.