The USA Racquetball Board of Directors brings the disappointing news that the United States will not be sending our U.S. Team to participate in the Pan American Racquetball Championships in Santa Cruz, Bolivia, in early September. This is an annual event that usually takes place Easter week, but because of the pandemic, it has had to be rescheduled several times. (This event is not to be confused with the multi-sport Pan American Games that last took place in Lima in 2019 and will again include Racquetball in Santiago, Chile, in 2023.)

This decision not to send a team was not made lightly. The U.S. Team Committee deliberated this past week, and their work included weighing out pros and cons: carefully researching travel advisories, entry and exit requirements for both Bolivia and the United States, and a host of other considerations as to the feasibility of travel at this time. They then formulated and delivered their recommendation to the Board of Directors. The Board carefully considered the information presented, and the committee’s recommendation was approved. Athlete representation was utilized and valued throughout the entire process.

First and foremost, we are solidly committed to the health and safety of our athletes as our top priority. With the pandemic unfortunately trending in the wrong direction at the present time, the issues associated with travel to Bolivia and back into the United States simply suggest too many negative situations that could develop.

Our pride in being a member country of the Pan American Racquetball Confederation (PARC) made this a difficult decision we wish we hadn’t had to make. We are always so glad to send our delegation and to provide our team members the opportunity to compete alongside the other PARC countries’ athletes.

Again, we are disappointed not to be able to attend, and we wish the Pan American Racquetball Confederation a successful and enjoyable event.

USA Racquetball is looking forward to sending a competitive delegation to the IRF World Championships later this year, barring unforeseen circumstances.

Contact: USAR Executive Director Mike Wedel -- mwedel@usaracquetball.com

Decision Regarding U.S. Adult Team Participation in the Pan American Racquetball Championships

Loading...