SA Games Delivers New Champions

By Filipe

The 4th SA Games proved to be a dilemma for Team Gauteng (three time winners) as they were soundly trounced by a highly motivated Team KZN, 136 to 112 medals. In the end, it all came down to who had the better swimmers.

Overall, and not forgetting all the par-for-the-course glitches, the 2007 SA Games were memorable - Plans came to fruition within acceptable times, the enormous amounts of people-logistics were well controlled, and the volunteer corps always within reach.

On the Table Tennis front, Team Gauteng did not fare that well. Two bronze medals were won by the Disabled Team and another by the able U/14 boys Team. The U/17 Boys managed 4th place, the U/17 girls 9th place and the U/14 girls, fifth place. The shining lights at this tournament were KZN and Free State. Their solid play and togetherness was amazing to watch.

The above notwithstanding, the Table Tennis Team Manager and Team Coaches deserve an applause for keeping it all together and tight. For not giving up when games were tight and for being the-shoulder-to-cry-on when emotions failed.

The 2007 SA Games was also the teeth-cutting tournament for many umpires and officials. During interviewing, all umpires and officials claimed nervousness at the start but were grateful for the experience.

GCTTA congratulates all the 2007 SA Games athletes, officials, coaches, administrators and parents on a job well done.

With preparations already underway towards the 2009 SA Games, it will be up to the Coaches and behind the scenes Administrators to ensure that the next generation of SA Games Athletes are well prepared come 2009.