Pickleball Podcast with Gordy - featuring 60+ World Number 1 Roger Ho

 

Interview with Roger Ho on the Pickleball Podcast With Gordy

Introduction: In a recent episode of the Pickleball Podcast With Gordy, host Gordon Watson had the pleasure of interviewing Roger Ho, the global number one pickleball player in the 60-plus age category at the World Pickleball Championship at the Carmelina Beach Resort in Vietnam. Roger shared insights into his pickleball journey, transition from squash, tournament experiences, and the influence of his sports background on his success.

0:24 Gordon: Roger, you've achieved remarkable success in pickleball, especially considering your background in squash. What's the secret to playing at such a high level? Roger: Fortunately, my background in squash has been instrumental. Squash is a faster game, but it has honed my skills in placing shots strategically. Pickleball's slower pace allows me to utilize this advantage effectively. 1:05 Gordon: It's fascinating how your squash experience translates to pickleball. Do you find similarities in footwork between the two sports?

Roger: Absolutely. In squash, there's a focus on movement around the "T," which translates well to pickleball, particularly in singles matches where agility and positioning are crucial. 1:55: Gordon: Watching you play singles and witnessing your recent victory here in Vietnam at the Carolina Beach Resort, the ambiance seems incredible. What makes this tournament stand out for you?

Roger: Carolina Beach Resort offers a fantastic setting, with superb facilities and hospitality. It's undoubtedly one of the best tournaments I've experienced, with well-designed courts and ideal weather conditions. 3:00: Gordon: You mentioned your transition from squash to pickleball. How long have you been playing pickleball, and what prompted you to make the switch?

Roger: I've been playing pickleball for about three years now. After retiring from squash, I sought a sport that would complement my fitness level and discovered pickleball through a colleague's recommendation. 4:04: Gordon: Your influence extends beyond the court, as you've introduced pickleball to the Singapore Armed Forces. How did that come about?

Roger: My involvement in pickleball caught the attention of military officials, leading to the sport's inclusion in training programs. It's gratifying to see the sport gaining traction within the armed forces. 6:36 Gordon: Your success has attracted sponsorship from prominent brands like Infmarc. How did you secure these partnerships?

Roger: My performance in tournaments, coupled with active engagement on social media, caught the attention of sponsors. Attending events like the Taiwan Open helped showcase my skills and foster partnerships. 8:10 Gordon: Your medal tally is impressive, with multiple gold medals already this year. What's your approach to maintaining peak performance?

Roger: Planning my tournament schedule meticulously allows me to focus on specific events and maintain consistency. Last year was particularly successful, with over 20 gold medals, setting a high standard for this year's competitions. 9:27 Gordon: With the upcoming World Pickleball Championship in South Korea, what are your expectations for the event?

Roger: I'm excited to compete in new locations like South Korea and China, embracing the cultural experiences alongside the tournaments. Each event presents unique challenges and opportunities for growth. 10:32 Gordon: With your extensive tournament schedule, how do you manage to balance sports and family life?

Roger: Sports have always been a part of my life, and my wife understands and supports my passion. She accompanies me to tournaments whenever possible, turning them into family adventures. Conclusion: Roger Ho's journey from squash to pickleball exemplifies dedication and adaptability. His success on the court, coupled with his contributions to popularizing pickleball, make him a respected figure in the sport. As he continues to compete on the global stage, his passion for pickleball and commitment to excellence serve as inspiration for players worldwide.