- Bring home a four-medal haul
Botswana’s Junior National Table Tennis Team has made a bold statement on the international stage, returning from the Johannesburg Table Tennis Association (JTTA) Open Championships 2025 with a total of four medals—one gold and three silvers.
The prestigious tournament, held from April 26 to 28 in Johannesburg, South Africa, attracted top junior talent from across the region, and Botswana’s young stars proved they could more than hold their own.
Guided by Coach Brown Sebokolodi and Team Manager Collin Dzaka, the team displayed extraordinary resilience, discipline, and technical skill across various categories. Their success not only marks a significant milestone in their individual careers but also signals a bright future for Botswana table tennis.
The standout performer of the tournament was Reneilwe Lekorwe, who delivered a commanding performance to clinch the gold medal in the Under-13 Boys Singles category. Lekorwe’s focus and calm under pressure set him apart, as he powered through the rounds before sealing the win in a hard-fought final. His teammate, Tinashe Dzaka, also impressed by earning the silver medal in the same category, completing a one-two finish for Botswana.
In the Under-13 Girls Singles, Boitlamo Nkele showcased her growing potential by securing a silver medal after advancing all the way to the finals. Although she narrowly lost to South Africa’s Tamika Van As, Nkele’s graceful yet aggressive playing style turned heads throughout the tournament.
Nkele then partnered with fellow teammate Carol David in the Under-13 Mixed Doubles. The pair showed great chemistry and coordination, fighting their way into the finals where they eventually settled for silver after an intense match. Their achievement added yet another medal to Botswana’s tally and further highlighted the depth of talent in the squad.
Also, part of the traveling team were Thato Kgongwana and promising youngster Dhaarmic Karthik. Karthik, a product of BTTA’s Bontleng/Ithuteng Development Project, gained valuable exposure despite not reaching the podium, and his inclusion in the squad reflected BTTA’s commitment to inclusive talent development.
The BTTA has applauded the entire team, from players to coaches, for their exceptional showing in Johannesburg. Their achievements not only bring pride to Botswana but also reflect the success of development programs that continue to nurture emerging athletes.
The team returned home on Tuesday, though the campaign is far from over. Some of the players are scheduled to continue their tour of South Africa with another appearance at the uMgungundlovu Table Tennis Open in Pietermaritzburg from May 1 to 3. As these young athletes continue to rise, the future of Botswana table tennis looks increasingly promising.
