Emerging & Niche Sports - Tradition Meets Tomorrow at Pesta Sukan

Tradition Meets Tomorrow at Pesta Sukan

For over six decades, Pesta Sukan has been more than a festival of sport, it has been a mirror of Singapore’s evolving identity. From its earliest days, it brought together people of all backgrounds through physical play. Today, it continues that legacy by embracing emerging and niche sports, blending heritage and innovation to celebrate the full spectrum of athletic passion.

Pickleball: Fast Rallies, Faster Rise

One of the world’s fastest-growing sports, pickleball exploded in popularity globally during the pandemic and Singapore was no exception. Its inclusion in Pesta Sukan in 2023 marks a forward-thinking shift toward more accessible and inclusive games. Though still new, local players like Darren Ho are making waves, with ambitions to represent Singapore on regional circuits. What started as a backyard pastime has now become a key developmental sport, attracting both young athletes and seniors alike with its low-impact, high-fun gameplay.

Pesta Sukan Pickleball Competition. Photo credit: Team Nila.

Ultimate Flying Disc: Soaring to World Podiums

Introduced to Pesta Sukan in 2017, Ultimate Flying Disc quickly gained traction in schools, polytechnics, and youth clubs for its unique mix of speed, spirit, and teamwork. What was once considered a fringe activity is now yielding international success, most notably with Singapore’s silver-medal finish at the 2024 World Under-24 Championships, a historic achievement that showcased our next generation of sporting talent. With growing grassroots leagues and school-level competitions, the sport’s future in Singapore looks bright and bold.

Mid-air magic. Photo credit: Team Nila

Pétanque: From Kampong Courtyards to Continental Titles

Rooted in ancient Roman ball games and formalised in France, pétanque found its way to Singapore in 1985, introduced by the People’s Association as a community sport, it is particularly popular among seniors for its emphasis on precision over power. Over time, it evolved into a competitive pursuit. Singapore has excelled on the international stage. Its journey from leisure pastime to medal sport captures the essence of how Pesta Sukan nurtures quiet excellence.

A Festival that Grows with Us

Pesta Sukan remains an important part of our sporting calendar supporting talent development, encouraging participation, and contributing to a more inclusive and vibrant sports ecosystem. Its commitment to inclusion and innovation ensures that both traditional and emerging sports receive the recognition and support they deserve. 

Today, the festival stands as a living chronicle, one where neighbourhood heroes become community athletes, and where sports like pickleball, pétanque, and ultimate disc are woven into the fabric of Singapore’s sporting story.

As our interests diversify and our sports scene expands, Pesta Sukan continues to honour the past while shaping the future, providing platforms, inspiring pride, and forging a more connected and active nation.