Patxi: Ona Pilota means “The Good Pelota ball” in Basque. It’s an expression we hear since we are little, and it brings back happy memories. Today we are lucky to be living off our passion and sharing it with the public, making happy memories.

Jon: Yes, the Cesta Punta is an integral part of the culture and identity of our region. We are trying to democratise access to Cesta Punta by opening the doors of our workshop. But most of all, we wish to preserve and keep alive an industry as well as the culture on which it depends.

Patxi: While working at Jaï Alaï in Miami, a Mexican pelotero named Clemente taught me how to mend a pelota ball,and a man named Louis in St-Jean de Luz, taught me how to repair the leather of the pelota balls. Then, when I came home, I taught my brother Jon.

Jon: It requires a lot of patience, and one is never identical to the previous one, however seeing the look of satisfaction of the players who use them is wonderful. When we get out of the workshop we use our own chistera or the ball we have just finished making – that is the greatest reward.