Stef Gauthe, Founder and Organizer of the 1st National Open of Padel of the Forces of Order and National Sport Referent of the Municipal Police looks back on this event which takes place on October 20 and 21, 2023 at the 4Padel Toulouse-Colomiers:

A concept that is not new

“The idea came to me to create an annual championship of padel dedicated to Law Enforcement (FDO).

The goal is to put the championship title into play each year, hosted by a different city or club in France.

This concept is not new; it already exists in other disciplines such as skiing or cross-country. It offers agents, coming from all over France and from all corporations, an opportunity to meet and compete in a friendly and unifying atmosphere. It also allows you to discover a new region and exchange with other colleagues, which creates a certain emulation.”

1st National Open Padel of the Forces of Order
1st National Open Padel of the Forces of Order

65 pairs from all over France

“For this first edition, we have nearly 65 pairs divided into three categories: men's, women's and mixed doubles.

The competition will be held over two days: Friday will be devoted to the qualifying rounds, while Saturday will see the final rounds.

All branches of the Forces of Order are represented: National Police, Municipal Police, GIE, Army, Fire Brigade, Customs, Penitentiaries, RAID and even the Andorran Police. A unique trophy, made of iron and wood and in the national colors, was specially created by a police friend for the occasion.”

1st National Open Padel of the Forces of Order

The next step in the Grand Est?

“Several sponsors will be present, offering commercial events and themed meals.

On the menu: tapas on Friday evening and an Argentinian barbecue on Saturday evening.

Léa Godallier, number 2 of the padel women in France, is our godmother this year. We sincerely hope that she will be there to present the awards to the winners.

For next year, a candidate has already positioned himself to organize the event in the Grand Est region. We're keeping our fingers crossed that this happens.

My dearest wish is to be able to reorganize this event in 10 years in Toulouse, to complete the circle.

So, let’s play! May the best win and a big thank you to all our sponsors for their support.”

Franck Binisti

Franck Binisti discovers the padel at the Club des Pyramides in 2009 in the Paris region. Since padel is part of his life. You often see him touring France going to cover the major events of padel French.

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