Paleta Goma, Doubles, Men

In paleta goma, a small paddle (at most 55 cm long and 20 cm wide) is used to hit the ball, which is made of rubber (“goma” is rubber in Spanish). Mexico was the reigning world champion in the paleta goma on the frontón, and both victorious members – José Becerra and Rubén Rendón – were part of the Mexican selection of four. The Argentines were expected to contend, as they fielded Aarón Sehter, who would capture 13 world titles in basque pelota between 1952 and 1982, including 9 in the paleta goma. But the Mexicans were superior, defeating Argentina 30-21 and 30-7 in the double round-robin event.