By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: The Table Tennis Federation of India (TTFI) has expressed happiness at the pace of preparations for the ensuing ‘12th South Asian Federation (SAF) Junior Table Tennis Championship 2012’ from June 17 to 19 here.
The Federation has extended all possible support to ensure that the first ever international sporting event in the North East is a runaway success that will set a new benchmark for future events. After completing a thorough inspection of the venue and holding discussions with the organizing committee led by the Chairman, RG Lyngdoh, the Secretary General of the TTFI and Treasurer of the Asian Table Tennis Union, DR Choudhary on Saturday expressed satisfaction over the state of things.
“I am happy that everything is going as per plan and the schedule is on target which in itself is a reflection of your State TT association’s commitment to make the event successful,” Choudhary told journalists after the meeting while adding, “After seeing how well the preparations are going on let me assure you that the TTFI will extend all possible aid to ensure that the event is a success.”
Choudhary also informed that over 150 participants are expected which include 88 players as all countries may not send their full strength team of 16. 20 technical officials including seven from abroad while two officials from Meghalaya have been nominated. “In fact your very own Bruce Marak has been appointed as Manager of the Indian team,” the top TTFI official added.
Choudhary said that the TTFI will provide five world class ‘Stag’ tables manufactured in Meerut including the ‘Show Court’ table, synthetic flooring from China and the famous ‘Nittaku’ balls from Japan besides the trophies.
The TTFI official also reminded the organizing committee members of the significance of the event in that it is not an open event. “Each country has to participate in this event which is mandatory if they wish to participate in the Asian championships so it is a very important event and no one will want to give it a skip,” Choudhary stressed while adding, “I am confident that Meghalaya Table Tennis Association (MTTA) will deliver the goods as the TTFI wants to encourage smaller states to organise international class events which will enhance their experience and in turn boost the game in their respective states.”