Third time lucky, Maratas and Capicenio bask in the glow of pickleball success

CEBU, Philippines — They fell short of their target in the first two tournaments they entered.

Instead of getting discouraged, however, each setback only fueled their determination to achieve their goal.

Their persistence paid off when they finally succeeded on their third try.

That was the story of Cebuano pickleballers Leiz Klade Maratas and Jocel Ann Capicenio, who emerged as champions in the 35+ women’s doubles category of the Rocket Pickle Cebu Pickleball Festival Cebu 2026 presented by Omega Pickleball held last September 19-20 at the RPC courts in Barangay Subangdaku, Mandaue City.

Maratas and Capicenio, representing the Beauties and Bangers team, defeated Jhonavie Alloso and Mary Chris Rebucias of the Toledo City Pickleball Club, 11-5, in the final to capture the first title of their budding partnership.

“From the many attempts, lessons, and tough games to finally taking the win - this one feels extra special,” said Maratas.

“To my amazing pickleball partner, Ann, thank you for the trust, teamwork, and confidence you brought to every game. We fought for every point, lifted each other up when things got tough, and never stopped believing in the team, from the first serve to the final point,” she added.

Maratas had another reason to celebrate.

Just days before securing her breakthrough crown, her husband Jerry Maratas, longtime president of the Cebu Executives and Professionals Chess Association (CEPCA) and an avid golfer, was crowned champion in a golf tournament that was part of the 2026 Professional Mechanical Engineers Congress last September 8 at the Mactan Island Golf Club in Lapu-Lapu City.

“No big words, just a grateful heart. Champion today, student of the game, always because  I wanted to be better in this sport which I really love now,” Maratas concluded. — (FREEMAN)