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The 2026 Mitch Memorial Padel Tournament
Mitchell Hopkins Memorial Padel Trophy
Yesterday was a very special day as we came together for the annual Mitchell Hopkins Memorial Paddle Trophy, celebrating the life and memory of a much-loved colleague, friend, and very special member of the La Tania family.
We sadly lost Mitch in December 2024 when he was about to start his third Winter season with girlfriend Michaela after spend the Summer in La Tania enjoying the biking, hiking, climbing and of course Padel.
Mitch was someone who brought friendship, laughter and warmth wherever he went, and he was a great lover of Padel. Those who knew him will remember that he seemed to play with a smile permanently on his face. It therefore feels particularly fitting that we continue to remember him through a day of Padel, friendship, laughter and good times shared together.
Last summer, we held the first tournament in Mitch’s memory, with the simple aim of keeping his memory alive and bringing together the many friends who knew and loved him. Yesterday’s tournament continued that tradition.
This year we were fortunate to have the new courts at Aquamotion for the afternoon who very kindly donated them for the event and even provided a much-needed gazebo to give everyone some shade from the heat. A huge thank you to Thomas Truffin and everyone at Aquamotion for making that possible — it was very much appreciated. Also thanks to Ralph for organising everything and all those who took part sharing water, nibbles, beers, champagne and balls!
The draw was made at 2pm at the Ski Lodge, with Harriet doing the honours and drawing the names. Somehow, we ended up with an incredibly well-balanced set of eight teams, producing some excellent Padel with many very close and competitive games throughout the afternoon.
There was even a tiebreak to decide the winners of Pool 2, setting up the semi-finals and ultimately a cracking final between Ange & Wade and Richard & Natalie
In the end, it was Wade & Ange who came out victorious and lifted the Mitch Hopkins Memorial Padel Trophy. The third place play-off was won by Andrew & Christine beating Heather & Toffa (despite losing the previous tie break 7-1 for Pool 2 to Heather & Toffa).
But, as always, the result was really only part of the story. The most important thing was having so many of Mitch’s friends together, enjoying something he loved and remembering him in the way he would have wanted — with plenty of laughter, competition, friendship and a few beers afterwards.
And then, as if the day hadn’t already been special enough, we were treated to the eclipse before heading back to the Ski Lodge for more beers and more memories.
A wonderful day for a wonderful friend.
Mitch would have loved it.
Thank you for continuing to remember my beautiful son with such heartfelt words and happy memories, gathering together for him to play a game he loved means so much to me and his family. I know he loved being a part of your community and I am forever grateful he felt the love from you all.
Sending you all love and hugs.
Lisa xx