by Olalekan Okusan, ITTF Africa, Press Officer
A total of 94 players representing six countries participated, star of the show being 15 year old Kalam Mushfiquh, the impressive South African teenager who won the Women’s Singles title.
Undoubtedly a successful initiative, a Para event being included, the organisation was masterminded by Kudzanani Motswagole, the Competition Director.
“Though Zambia could not make it with their two Para athletes, their two teams competed in three events being mixed team and individuals. Some of the athletes were not classified, leaving their associations together with the region to classify them. The Para athletes were allowed to play in able bodied events as well. The most important lesson learned was we have been denying the most passionate group in the region by not providing forums of competition for them. Indeed it was an eye catching and memorable scene to watch the Para athletes who played with passion and commitment.” Kudzanani Motswagole
Commitment from the Para players, there was also commitment from the vastly experienced Shane Overmeyer; he won the Men’s Singles title.
“Despite the much admired skills of our athletes, it is a sad note to realize that their continental and international rankings are very low. It is important to note that one of the contributing factors is the financial constraints. They are unable to send athletes to ranking tournaments. Technically, despite the dominance of South Africa, it is encouraging to note that the points were always decided after long rallies that entertained supporters and all stakeholders. Indeed the games provided fun and excellent environment for the game of table tennis,” Kudzanani Motswagole
Notably, the tournament received media coverage from the top media houses in Botswana; also, it was also supported by corporate bodies including Oasis Motel, Double Happiness, CBMC, Botho University, Turnstar Holdings, Choppies Superstores, Impression House, Yarona FM Radio Station, Master Joinery Prinsan Group, Alikay Builder (PTY) LTD, Hanscy PTY LTD and Karong Clinic.
2018 African Union Sport Commission Region Five: Report (including list of entries with full names)
2018 African Union Sport Commission Region Five: Roll of Honour
2018 African Union Sport Commission Region Five: Men’s Team & Women’s Team Events
2018 African Union Sport Commission Region Five: Men’s Singles
2018 African Union Sport Commission Region Five: Women’s Singles
2018 African Union Sport Commission Region Five: Women’s Doubles
2018 African Union Sport Commission Region Five: Mixed Doubles