by Ian Marshall, ITTF Publications Manager

An event with an eye on the future but it was in a city, once known as Carthage, whose history, dates back beyond the sands of time.

“Tunisia’s accessible sea coastline and strategic location have attracted conquerors and visitors throughout the ages; its ready access to the Sahara has brought its people into contact with the inhabitants of the African interior. According to Greek legend, Dido, a Princess of Tyre, was the first outsider to settle among the native tribes of what is now Tunisia, when she founded the city of Carthage in the 9th century BC.” Ahmed Dawlatly

Each day comprised two training sessions, a workshop to promote discussion and a lecture for both players and coaches.

Overall 17 players attended, 13 boys and four girls, all from Tunisia with one exception; a young man from Libya. Hriz Homrana, born in 2007, was accompanied by his father and travelled despite the difficult conditions his country.

“All participants showed a very good technical level, many promising talents were identified. Mortadha Badri suffered a forearm injury, Mareim Hamrouni suffered from stomach ache but despite their injuries in the last two days of the camp, they insisted to continue their participation, showing a great deal of courage and sense of responsibility.” Ahmed Dawlatly

In addition from Tunisia, five coaches were present in addition to one referee and four umpires.

“My thanks to the five dedicated coaches from Tunisia for their help and friendly attitude throughout the whole week.” Ahmed Dawlatly

Coaches and officials; also distinguished guests were present. Lotfi Guerfel, President of Tunisia Table Tennis Federation was present as was Mourad Sta, a former national team player now with a high-profile person in Tunisian Ministry of Sport.

Both were most welcome and added to a most successful initiative; in Tunis plenty of hope.