by Olalekan Okusan, ITTF-Africa Press Officer

Rajessen Desscann, a key member of the Local Organising Committee, explained that all logistics have been put in place to ensure a trouble free tournament and Forum.

“We set up a team six months ago with well-defined roles for each person; by now everything is almost ready.

It is the third time that Mauritius will host the African Senior Championships; we anticipate that all will go well. We have two hotels with facilities including wifi and relaxation facilities at our disposal. Athletes and coaches will stay at the Villa Caroline Hotel, Flic en Flac by the sea. Flic en Flac is a beach which is considered the best in Mauritius. Delegates will stay at the Palm Hotel in Quatre Bornes, where the Forum and Annual General Meeting will take place.

Our team is working hard to make the tournament a success. We have also to mention that the ITTF President, Mr. Thomas Weikert, will be present during the event. Also, necessary arrangements are being made so that athletes and delegates can discover our beautiful island. Mauritius is known as a tourist island.

The Mauritius Team is undergoing a training camp under the supervision of the French coach, Mr Cédric Rouleau. All the top players will be there for the competition; our objective is to be on the podium with at least one bronze medal; we know there will be strong teams.

It is the first time we have such a high participation of countries; that is 20 African countries. It will be a good way of sharing experience and see the different ways of African practice. It is a way to promote Mauritius table tennis and the associations of the Indian Ocean; Seychelles and Madagascar will also be participating.

The Beau Bassin Sports complex can accommodate 30 tables, with 10 tables for competition, as well as a practice hall for eight tables.”