by Ian Marshall, Editor

In 2006, the city of Bremen set new levels in terms of numbers, as no less than 3,650 entries were received; in 2012 in Stockholm, 66 national associations were represented: another barrier broken.

Later, in 2016 on Spain’s Costa Blanca both records were exceeded: in Alicante / Elche 4,500 players from 80 countries were registered; some 15,500 matches (a grand total of 55,000 games) were played on 165 competition tables in one hall.

Then for 2018 in Las Vegas, where a total of 3,969 players registered, representing a record 90 national associations. Impressively the playing statistics read 10,927 matches, 49,811 games and 687,887 points!

Furthermore, in Las Vegas famous names were on duty, most significantly Sweden’s former world champion, Jörgen Persson who won the men’s singles 50 to 54 years category; now there is more than a strong rumour that a celebrated Frenchman will compete in Bordeaux.

Winner of the men’s singles title at the national championships on no less than 17 occasions, the 1976 European champion, before at the 1977 World Championships in Birmingham securing the mixed doubles title in partnership with Claude Bergeret, the first ever world title won by France, Jacques Secretin is expected to compete in men’s singles 70 to 74 years.

Now surely as Claude Bergeret is the newly elected secretary of the Swaything Club, a special mixed doubles event can be arranged?

2020 World Veteran Championships: Join us in Bordeaux

2020 World Veteran Championships: Full information and entry details