El Puerto de Santa María, Spain – The Angelita Alta pavilion was the site of intense competition this Saturday as the second stage of the Andalusian Table Tennis Circuit concluded, attracting more than 150 players representing clubs across Western Andalusia. From young hopefuls in the benjamín category to seasoned veterans, the tournament showcased the breadth of talent within the region’s table tennis community.
The event, a significant date on the Andalusian sporting calendar, saw athletes from the provinces of Cádiz, Seville, Huelva, Málaga and Córdoba vying for top honors. Simultaneously, Bailén, in the Jaén province, hosted the corresponding stage for Eastern Andalusia, completing the regional circuit’s second round of play. The competition is a key component of the 2025/2026 season, as outlined by the Federación Andaluza de Tenis de Mesa (FATM).
The tournament encompassed all age and gender categories – benjamín, alevín, infantil, cadete, juvenil, under 21, senior, and veterans – providing a platform for both emerging talents and experienced players to demonstrate their skills. The high level of play and spirited atmosphere within the municipal facilities were hallmarks of the day, according to attendees.
This marked a significant return for El Puerto de Santa María as a host city for a regional table tennis competition, a role it hadn’t held since before the pandemic. Fernando Merello, president of the Club Tenis de Mesa Portuense, emphasized the importance of bringing this level of competition back to the city. He also expressed gratitude for the Ayuntamiento’s (city council) support in organizing the event, highlighting the opportunity it provides for younger players, many of whom were participating in their first official tournament. The tournament also contributes to the official Andalusian table tennis ranking system.
José Ignacio González Nieto, the concejal (councilman) for Sports and Youth, was present at the awards ceremony, underscoring the city’s commitment to fostering sporting events. González Nieto also previously congratulated the Club Tenis de Mesa Portuense on their success at the LXIX Campeonato de Andalucía in January 2024, according to a statement from the city.
The resurgence of table tennis in El Puerto is particularly noteworthy given the challenges faced by sporting events during the pandemic. The ability to host a competition of this scale demonstrates the city’s resilience and dedication to providing opportunities for athletes of all ages. For many of the younger participants, this tournament represented a crucial first step in their competitive journey, offering valuable experience and exposure.
The Club Tenis de Mesa Portuense, officially registered with the Andalusian Registry of Sports Entities (registration number 2724), has been instrumental in revitalizing the sport within the local community. Their efforts, combined with the support of the Ayuntamiento, have created a positive environment for table tennis to thrive.
The complete results of the El Puerto de Santa María stage, as well as information about the overall Circuito Andaluz 2025/2026, can be found on the FATM website: https://fatm.eu/circuito-andaluz-2025-2026/. This resource provides detailed breakdowns of the results from both El Puerto and Bailén, as well as schedules and participant lists for future events.
Looking ahead, the Andalusian Table Tennis Circuit will continue with further stages throughout the year, providing ongoing opportunities for players to compete and improve their rankings. The next scheduled events will be held in La Rinconada and Alcalá la Real, with details available on the FATM website. The circuit is designed to identify and nurture the next generation of Andalusian table tennis stars, while also providing a competitive outlet for established players.
The success of this weekend’s event in El Puerto de Santa María underscores the growing popularity of table tennis in Andalusia. With continued support from local authorities and dedicated clubs like the Club Tenis de Mesa Portuense, the sport is poised for further growth and development in the years to come.
Key Takeaways:
- Over 150 players participated in the second stage of the Andalusian Table Tennis Circuit in El Puerto de Santa María.
- The tournament included all age and gender categories, from benjamín to veterans.
- This event marked a return to regional competition for El Puerto, after a hiatus since before the pandemic.
- The tournament is part of the official Andalusian table tennis ranking system.
The next stage of the Circuito Andaluz is scheduled for La Rinconada and Alcalá la Real. Stay tuned to the FATM website for updated schedules and results. What did you think of the event? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
