The city of Gramado will host the 1st Geronto Fair Pickleball Cup from April 10 to 12 at the Jedai Pickleball Club, marking the opening phase of activities for Geronto Fair 2026. The tournament, promoted by Merkator Feiras e Eventos, is designed to bring together athletes across age groups, with a strong focus on active ageing and participation.
Competitions will be held in 40+, 50+ and 60+ categories across singles and doubles formats, covering beginner, intermediate and advanced levels. Each category will be limited to 16 pairs.
“The tournament’s success is already guaranteed, especially given the number of registrations from athletes aged 50+ to 80+,” said Christa Keeling, an 84-year-old Austrian who introduced the sport locally.
“I discovered pickleball when I lived in California after injuring myself playing tennis. I loved it, and when I came to Brazil in 2023, I brought it with me,” she was quoted as saying by Sortimentos.com
Organisers see the event as more than just competition. “More than a competition, the tournament is a celebration of active longevity, the essence of Geronto Fair,” said Roberta Pletsch, director of Merkator Feiras e Eventos. “We believe in healthy living regardless of age. And one of the situations that best exemplifies this concept is the practice of sports with people of all ages. Our idea is to provide a space that unites sports practice, social interaction, and quality of life.”
Pickleball’s global rise has been a key driver behind the initiative. Combining elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis, the sport has seen rapid growth, particularly among players over 40.
“This is precisely the target audience of Geronto Fair,” Pletsch added. “They are people from companies, professionals, researchers, and representatives from various sectors who are beginning to awaken to the new demographic situation in the world.”
The Cup also ties into the broader “silver economy”, which organisers say is expanding rapidly in Brazil.
“We are talking about a sector that generates around R$ 2 trillion per year in the country,” Pletsch said. “The Cup is a practical way to experience this concept, connecting sport, networking, and well-being.”
With the tournament, Geronto Fair aims to extend its reach beyond conferences and exhibitions, positioning itself as a platform that blends sport, community and economic opportunity.