In the run-up to Pelotari Day, scheduled for June 13, the first preliminary matches of the men's two-and-a-half championship, organized by the Txulue association, were played yesterday afternoon. The matches generated considerable interest, with many residents gathering around Kontzejupea to watch the initial contests.

A total of 25 players have registered for the two-and-a-half championship. To complete the bracket, nine preliminary matches will be played over the coming days. Five matches took place yesterday, and four more can be seen today starting at 6:00 PM: Julen Aranburu-Txorrotxa, Zapirain-Iraitz Korta, Gaztelu-Xomorro, and Lizertza III.a-Kuku will compete to advance in the tournament. This week's winners and players who did not participate in the preliminary matches will play their round of sixteen qualifiers next week.

In addition to the men's two-and-a-half championship, there will also be separate doubles championships for both men and women. In the men's doubles category, 42 pairs have registered, while in the women's, two pairs. The finals for all championships will be held on Pelotari Day itself.

Furthermore, the Txulue association has changed the method for acquiring Pelotari Day t-shirts this year. They will not be sold in Kontzejupea; instead, orders must be placed online. Residents need to fill out a form before May 11, where they can choose the t-shirt's color and size. On match days, there will also be an opportunity to try on t-shirts at Kontzejupea, and those who have placed orders will receive them on June 3, 4, and 5.