Four young promising Batswana table tennis players will represent Botswana at the African Continental Hope week and challenge that will be held at Botho University Multi-Purpose Hall in Gaborone from July 9th to July 14th 2024.
The quartet are Reneilwe Lekorwe, Tinashe Dzavaka, Masa Motlhabani and Boitlami Nkele. Lekorwe and Dzavaka will be participating in the U12 boys’ category while Motlhabani and Nkele will be participating in the U12 girls’ category.
These young stars will compete against their peers from other African countries, showcasing their skills and representing Botswana on the home ground. About ten African countries are expected to take part in the competition.
Botswana Table Tennis Association (BTTA) Public Relations Officer Tshegofatso Malepa has told Times Sport that the significant event is part of BTTA grassroots development strategies, focuses on nurturing young athletic talent, particularly targeting athlete aged under 12 years. She stated that the week-long event aims to foster the skills and sportsmanship of young table tennis players from across the African continent, providing them with a platform to compete, learn and grow.
She noted that by targeting the U-12 category, the event aligns perfectly with BTTA’s mission to cultivate and support young talent from an early age. Malepa has expressed that the event not only highlights Botswana’s commitment to sports development but also enhances its standing as a key host for the continental sports events.
She stated that the BTTA’s focus on grassroots development is to ensure that the future of sports in Botswana is bright, with young athletes receiving the support and opportunities they need to excel.
“Botho University state-of-the-art multi-purpose hall offers an ideal setting for both competition and community engagement, the venue’s facilities are expected to provide a conducive environment for the young athletes to perform at their best,” she said.
Meanwhile, Botswana has been selected as the host for the African Youth Championships U15 and U19 that will be held on the 15th-21st July in Gaborone at Botho University Hall. The event is expected to provide an increased recognition for the capital city, provide economic growth and development of its sporting infrastructure.
