This weekend has been a whirlwind of emotions, filled with both joys and sorrows. On Saturday, I marked the anniversary of my father’s passing, a poignant reminder that tugged relentlessly at my heart. Amidst these feelings, I attended the first 3×3 Ciudad de Arrecife Memorial Marcial Rodríguez tournament on Sunday. This event saw a significant gathering of island basketball enthusiasts, honouring the memory of Marcial, a remarkable player and an even better person, who unexpectedly left us in the early years of this century.
A Day Full of Memories
Many of Marcial’s friends assembled at the Ciudad Deportiva, including former basketball stars from Lanzarote, some sporting a few extra pounds and knee pads, while memories and emotions filled the court. The anticipation built up to the most awaited moment, around 2:10 PM, when Marcial’s brother, Ginés, affectionately known as “Negro,” accepted a plaque on behalf of the family. It is said that at that moment, Marcial smiled down upon us, his trademark white teeth contrasting with his olive-toned skin, forever remembered from the heavens above.
A Bitter Turn
Just moments after the trophy presentation for the first 3×3 Ciudad de Arrecife Memorial Marcial Rodríguez tournament concluded, and as political grievances threatened to overshadow the day, I learned of the passing of Pablo Brieba, a player for Tizziri Tinajo. What began as a bittersweet weekend quickly turned to feelings of anger and desolation.
I cannot fathom the grief that the Tinajo family and the Tizziri Tinajo team must be experiencing. Life can be so unpredictable. We were reflecting on the loss of another great island basketball player who had left us unexpectedly, and then we faced the news of Pablo. We have lost a skilled point guard, an exceptional basketball player, and a genuinely good person. I often remember him alongside Hugo, making funny faces for photos as he led his hometown team. I cannot count the number of pictures I have taken of him, nor the countless conversations we’ve had, often teasing Hugo about his playing style just to ruffle his feathers. These memories are indelible.
Remembering Pablo
Pablo had recently celebrated his birthday just over a week ago, reaching the age of thirty. He lived life intensely and, despite the sorrow we all feel over this tragedy, I sincerely hope he was unaware of what transpired, that he was enjoying life as he always did. Life, in its capricious and unfair manner, has once again dealt us a blow, catching us off guard where it hurts the most.
Every time I step onto the court at the Municipal of Tinajo, you will be there. Wherever you go, Pablete, continue to enjoy. A heartfelt embrace from me, sir. Rest in peace.
