31 Aug 2020

Tshenolo Mooketsi of BDF Table Tennis Club has defeated Boago Malobela of Smash Manias 3-1 in the men singles during Botswana Table Tennis Association’s ‘Road to Finale’ national open tournament held at Botswana National Youth Council oover the weekend.

Mooketsi made it to the finals after defeating Sean Dekop 3-2, while Malobela sailed through after knocking out Bonolo Mabote 3-1 in the semifinals.  

In the women’s finals, experienced Boitshwarelo Butale of Smash Maniacs continued with her fine form beating Tshepiso Rebatenne of Nhabe 3-2 to claim the first spot.

The duo defeated Salome Matlhatsi and Lucy Tomeletso both from BDF, 3-2 and 3-1 respectively in the semifinals.

For her part, Butale said despite her impressive form in the run up to the finals, she was faced with stern competition from Rebatenne in the final match.

She said as the best ranked female table tennis player, Rebatenne was a force to reckon with.

Despite the win, Butale bemoaned lack of fitness.

“I have been relying on these games to get some training. Despite winning most rounds, I do not have proper training.

I do a lot of physical training. I was under pressure to get the win.

Looking at the grand finale, I am expecting a challenge from my opponents as they will be fired up to get some revenge,” she said.

In both men and women categories, winners walked away with P2 000 while losing finalists received P1 000.

Semifinalists received P600 each while those who ended with in the quarter finals received P200 each.

Meanwhile, Botswana Table Tennis Association publicity secretary, Tiro Motswasele said the tournament was used to gain points for the grand finale slated for Independence Day.

The road to the tournament finale, went through five rounds, with the final lap held on Saturday.

The tournament prize money was made possible by sponsorship from Phoenix Assurance Group, Botswana while equipment was supplied by Stag International. Ends