16 Feb 2019

Officially accepted as members of the International Table Tennis Federation at the 2008 Annual General Meeting in the Chinese city of Guangzhou; since that time it has been step by step progress for Belize.

Recently on Sunday 10th February they returned home after having competed in the 2019 Central American and Cadet Championships in Cancun, Mexico; furthermore, they enjoyed a degree of success.

by Ian Marshall, Editor

Notably, Taye Parkinson and Devesh Hukmani secured bronze in the cadet boys’ singles event whilst, in addition, Taye Parkinson reached the cadet boys’ singles main draw.

It was a delighted Arturo “Tux” Vasquez, the President of the Belize Table Tennis Association, who welcomed the team home.

“I congratulate our entire team on a very good competition and performance by all the players. Thank you to all the players, parents and coaches who made this experience possible; also my thanks to the Belize Olympic Committee for their support and assistance.” Arturo Vasquez

Learning to control the ball (Photo: courtesy of Belize Table Tennis Association)

 

Now following the visit to Cancun, a table tennis programme has been initiated at the St. Martin Primary School. On Tuesday 12th February, members of the Belize Table Tennis Association gave a demonstration; later excited children tried their hand; there was a sea of smiling faces.

“The objective is to conduct two sessions at the school, three times per week. Sessions will be from 1.30 pm to 2.30 pm and from 2.30 pm to 3.30 pm.” Arturo Vasquez

Keep the ball on the table (Photo: courtesy of Belize Table Tennis Association)

 

A splendid initiative with the initial sessions being aimed at the youngest ages in the school. Furthermore, further opportunities are being arranged.

“In addition, the Swift Hall will also be open every Saturday morning from 9.00 am to 12.00 noon to allow the community to share in open table tennis sessions. We are hoping that this will provide an avenue for the young community to participate in constructive activities and also to become interested in the sport of table tennis; this is also an open invitation to everyone who would like to be a part of the initiative and to join us on Saturday mornings.” Arturo Vasquez

Table tennis for all for life; it is very true in Belize.

Total concentration at the St Martin Primary School (Photo: courtesy of Belize Table Tennis Association)
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