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Keeping Jai-Alai Alive
When I heard NPR's report on the
declining popularity of the Miami jai-alai scene, something
inside of me grew sad. I may not be a huge fan of the world's fastest sport or even
close, but it does have some special memories from my childhood. For me it was something to watch on
simulcast when my mother dragged me to the horse races. Ugh! When I was bored with the horses I turned my
attention to the players hurling pelota's (hard rubber
balls) against the wall from the cesta's (a wicker
basket) attached to their arms. I could have sworn it was all happening at the speed of light.
So what? Oops! It's too late right? Well, even if you aren't into gambling consider skipping South Beach for one day to check out the sport. It probably won't vanish overnight, but without fan support or even a tourist or two to accidentally stumble in, it could just happen in the coming years. With all Miami has to offer, Jai Alai is a real spectator's sport and cheap retreat for anyone looking for a day-trip quickie.
Filed under: Arts and Culture, Learning, Festivals and Events, Stories
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Mon Ancheta Dec 18th 2005 5:37PM
I'm a HUGE fan of Jai-alai !! I played as an amateur in my teens in Manila. It will be a tragedy if this Game dissapears. I wish someone or some group of people would turn this Exciting game into a popular sport and bring it to California. Build a Cancha and organize an amateur group . Jai-alai is a great sport that tests ur skills, ur reflexes and ur agility. KEEP JAI-ALAI ALIVE FANS!! Bring Jai-alai to California--ur welcome here!!