New Pok Ta Pok Court Unveiled in Progreso, Yucatan

The Port of Progreso in Yucatan now boasts its own dedicated space for the traditional Mayan ball game, Pok Ta Pok. This significant cultural event was inaugurated over the weekend, with the opening of a new sports complex.

Previously, the Yucatecan capital and tourist hotspots like Xcaret were the only places to witness this ancient game. Now, Progreso has joined the ranks with its own court, attracting municipal authorities and indigenous representatives from across southern Mexico for its grand opening.

The new court, the first of its kind in the region, marks a significant milestone in the resurgence of this popular Mayan spectacle. Its construction comes a millennium after the court at Chichen Itza and is expected to play a vital role in promoting and preserving Mayan culture. The inaugural game, played on a 30 by 15 meter court aligned north-south in accordance with Mayan cosmology, marks the beginning of a new chapter in Progreso's cultural history.

Before the game, Governor Jesús Campos Núñez and Mayan teachers José Manrique Esquivel expressed their gratitude to the municipal authorities for their support. They emphasized the importance of the project not only as a religious and ritualistic practice but also as a means of honoring the gods and connecting younger generations with their Mayan heritage.

They also reflected on the struggles to keep Mayan culture alive, particularly during the enforced hiatus of cultural events between 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Erik Rihani González, a mayoral candidate for Progreso, acknowledged the crucial role of these teachers in preserving the region's cultural heritage.

Campos Núñez said, "As indigenous representatives, our role is to ensure these projects become a reality with the support of the governments that manage the resources. Today, we see the first court in Yucatan where we will witness indigenous dances, ball games, and ceremonies that connect us with our Mayan culture and our Yucatecan people who have Mayan roots."

The opening of the court, a project initiated just three months ago, is a testament to the dedication and commitment of all those involved. It's a source of pride for all Yucatecans, as the ball game encourages physical, mental, and strategic development, making it a valuable tool for youth development.