by Wade Townsend

The first singles medallists have been found at the 2017 World Cadet Challenge, as Elizabet Abraamian and Park Gyeongtae won the the bronze medal playoffs here in Suva.

In the Girls’ Singles playoff it was an all European affair as Abraamian overcame Elena Zaharia.

Zaharia got off to the faster start, but as amusing as it may sound in a cadet event, experience triumphed over youth.

An early first game lead by the Romanian was quickly closed by Abraamian and run away with the match.

The Russian triumphed over her teammate 3-1 (11-9, 11-9, 9-11, 11-5).

“I’m so happy. I wanted to win so much. Of course I also wanted to win the semi final but she was so strong.” Elizabet Abraamian

With a medal in the bag, it is time to celebrate.

“Tonight I want to have fun. Two years ago there was a party so hopefully I can celebrate tonight!” Elizabet Abraamian

Meanwhile, in the Boys’ Singles bronze medal playoff Park Gyeongtae guaranteed that Team Asia every place on the podium in the event.

Park had to come from behind as he trailed two games to one against Team Europe’s Csaba Andras.

It was hyper aggressive play from Park that saw him out manoeuvre Andras’ strategical spin.

Park took the match 3-2 (11-5, 5-11,6-11, 11-7, 11-6) and will be leaving Suva with bronze.