Michigan Duo Sets Guinness World Record with 28-Hour Pickleball Marathon
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — In a remarkable display of stamina and determination, two Michigan athletes have officially broken the Guinness World Record for the longest marathon playing singles pickleball, completing an unprecedented 28-hour match. Brad Haverkamp and Caleb Dang, both residents of Grand Rapids, embarked on this grueling challenge in late November after a previous attempt at a doubles pickleball marathon fell short in 2024.
The pair played continuously for 28 hours, adhering to the strict rules set by Guinness World Records, which permitted only a five-minute break each hour. This meant that for nearly an entire day, Haverkamp and Dang were locked in intense singles competition, pushing their physical and mental limits.
“I think at a certain point, your brain just shuts off and you’re on autopilot,” Dang told WZZM-TV, reflecting on the experience. “I might as well have blacked out for the middle 20 hours.” Their perseverance paid off when Guinness World Records officially recognized their achievement earlier this month, confirming that the evidence submitted met all criteria.
Pickleball, a sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, has surged in popularity across the United States, with the USA Pickleball Association reporting exponential growth in participation. The sport’s accessibility and fast-paced nature have made it a favorite among athletes of all ages.
Haverkamp and Dang’s record-breaking feat not only highlights their personal dedication but also shines a spotlight on pickleball’s rising profile. The endurance required to sustain competitive singles play for such an extended period is extraordinary, demanding exceptional physical fitness, concentration, and strategic thinking.
Guinness World Records, the global authority on record-breaking achievements, maintains rigorous standards to verify such attempts. Their guidelines for marathon sports events ensure that participants meet strict criteria regarding continuous play and allowable rest periods. The successful certification of this record adds to the growing list of endurance sports milestones documented by the organization, which can be explored further on their official website.
Pickleball’s governing bodies, including the USA Pickleball and the International Olympic Committee, have been working to promote the sport at national and international levels, with discussions ongoing about its potential inclusion in future Olympic Games.
As Haverkamp and Dang celebrate their record, their achievement serves as an inspiration to athletes and enthusiasts alike, demonstrating the heights of endurance and passion that pickleball can inspire. Their journey underscores the spirit of competition and camaraderie that defines the sport’s community nationwide.
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