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Fifty-two table tennis enthusiasts from various expatriate communities in Qatar participated in a friendly sports competition at Qatar Bowling Centre (QBC) recently. |
Aimed at promoting camaraderie and sportsmanship, the Filipino Table Tennis Association (FTTA) had gathered Egyptian, Syrian, Indian and Lebanese players in a one-day tournament. “The event is open to all nationalities and expatriate workers who have the passion to play table tennis,” said FTTA president Jay Ballesca.
Jeffrey Dano bagged the championship in the Class A division after beating Ronald Baluyot Aure. Roger Mousa was placed third.
In Class B, Shino Ittoop beat Ammoory Hassan to win the gold while Nelson Menil finished third. The Class C championship went to Bryan, while Elie Abi Nader came in second and Leonard Stamps third.
Ballesca said they want to organise more tournaments to enhance the skills of members. The group is planning to hold a team event next month as the past competitions have all featured individual categories.
To train more newbies, students and young players, FTTA has formed a committee that will conduct sports clinics besides their weekly practice at QBC. “Those who want to try the sport can also join. We are quite willing to teach them, especially young children,” said Ballesca.
Stressing its health benefits, he noted that table tennis is one of the best forms of recreation and a safe sport for all ages. As an indoor game, it can be played both in the cold and hot seasons.
Ballesca said they started the group in October 2008 with only 21 members. Now, it has more than 80 active players. Its membership is open only to Filipinos but other nationalities are welcome to join the tournaments. “We are urging fellow Filipinos in Qatar to join us and play table tennis. Membership is free,” he said. Many FTTA members, both male and female, play every Friday from 5pm to 1am. During Ramadan, QBC may extend its hours of operation until 2am.