International Professional Racquetball Organization (IPRO)

Director’s Message

Shortly after my return home from the July National Masters Tournament in Wisconsin, I embarked on another ‘Racquetball Vacation’.  This trip was to the Republic of Ireland.  First and foremost, for those yet to travel there and for those that have the wherewithal to do so; including time, energy, and some dinero, it should be on your priority list of places to go.  I have been fortunate over time to be able to piggyback travel adventures with racquetball; as a player, coach, delegate, administrator, or whatever!  My job description in Ireland was to be part of the tournament operations team.

Ireland (the Republic down south) is not part of the Kingdom.  That is more formally called, United Kingdom, which includes England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.  There seems to be some inexplicable difference between the mentality of those who live in the south.  No less than it can be associated with Their genuine hospitality and warmth for others.  For the record, they measure distance on the roads in meters or kilometers versus feet and miles, and they pay tariffs in Euros as opposed to Pounds.  Kudos to the European Racquetball Federation for targeting Ireland as the host for these games.

Twenty-four countries participated in the 14^th IRF World Championships.  It was a week long event held in the quaint Village of Dun A Ri (Gaelic for Kingscourt).  It is a place where all the locals come together to drink, eat, socialize, and offer assistance in staging a successful World Championship of Racquetball.  There is more history in this village with handball, the traditional Irish version played on a wood court 30 feet wide by 60 feet long.  During our stay an Exhibition match of doubles included current World Champion, Paul Brady.  The ‘Worlds’ included great athleticism and racquetball prowess by Rocky Carson and Jack Huczek during the Individual Singles Final.  I would be remiss if Rhonda Rajsich’s incredible return to form were not mentioned.  She is the new female World Racquetball Champion.

In conclusion, our trip was one for a lifetime.  Moments to include in the upcoming book:  Driving on roads narrower than a regulation racquetball court.  Driving on the right side of the vehicle and shifting with the left hand while navigating down the left side of the road.  I will not forget the nine rain-drenched holes of golf at the Adair Manor, site of the Irish Open; its punishing fairways and punishing green fees of $200 (for nine holes, cart extra).  And, what about navigating through Castles like Cabra and Bunratty, and abandoning one of our vehicle’s tires around the Ring of Kerry.  Thank goodness for the Hungarian and German friends who helped us change the tire!  Finally, we cannot forget the excitement when the airline lost our luggage in both directions; ida y vuelta.

Following are some news briefs to share with our readers since our last Message:

Quote of the month…..

“Next time I will rent some legs”

Coco Zachrisson (Guatemala), after playing 5 days at the
World Senior Racquetball Championships

Gary Mazaroff
Director

The International Professional Racquetball Organisation (IPRO) is the certification arm of the International Racquetball Federation (IRF).

In association with

Mission

The mission of IPRO is to promote racquetball certification and to provide leadership by developing and coordinating services and programs designed to meet the needs of the International racquetball community as a fun, exhilarating and healthy activity.