Over three days, more than 80 athletes gathered at the tennis tournament organized by El Nuevo Día by Match Tennis, held at the sports venue of the University of Ibagué in Santa Ana. This UTR tournament serves as a ranking opportunity for players seeking admission into universities in the United States, while also promoting high-level tennis in the region.
Participants hailed from various cities including Armenia, Bogotá, Espinal, Ibagué, and Melgar, competing in categories ranging from second to fifth. Notable results included Mateo Cabezas as the Challenger category finalist, Daniel Bustamante winning the Grand Slam category, and Andrés Marín as another Grand Slam finalist. Nicolás Álvarez was the finalist in the Masters category.
Leonidas López, manager of El Nuevo Día, emphasized the importance of the event in promoting Ibagué's culture, education, and sports. The tournament received sponsorship from notable local businesses including Sheffy, Mercacentro, Gatorade, Hotel Estelar, Deporvilla, and the University of Ibagué, showcasing a collaborative effort to enhance the local sports scene.
In addition to the tennis tournament, a significant upcoming event in Magdalena is set for October 12-13, where 40 teams will compete in extreme sports challenges that test resilience and teamwork. This unique competition aims to attract participants and spectators alike, fostering social integration through sport.
Organized by the Magdalena Government and supported by the Ciénaga Mayor's Office, the event encourages teams to register by October 9. It promises to be one of the year's most important sporting events in the region, emphasizing physical challenges alongside teamwork and perseverance.