The Grenada Table Tennis Association (GTTA) staged its first tournament of the year on Saturday May 29, 2021 with the Body Image Gym Easter Classics Open.

National Men’s Singles Champion Shannon Doughlin emerged the winner, defeating former national champion Jason Stanislaus in the finals. Doughlin won in straight sets 11-9; 16-14; 11-9 in the best of five championship games. 

The second set between the two players was a high-quality display of table tennis craft, stroke play, and skill. Both men served and returned services effectively, creating winning opportunities. 

Doughlin who won the first set, 11-9, was strongly challenged by an energized Stanislaus, who produced several sensational defensive returns to save “game-point” and serve for the set. However an athletic and younger Doughlin was equaled to the task, winning the set 16-14. He then wrapped up the match with an 11-9 win in the third set. This was his second championship in a row. 

In the semifinal matches, Doughlin defeated Chris Campbell 11-9; 11-7; 11-5, and Jason Stanislaus beat number two ranked junior player Shamal Williams 11-7; 9-11; 11-3; 9-11; 11-5. 

Chris Campbell finished in third place and Shamal Williams finished fourth. 

Main tournament sponsor Mr. Kent Joseph, Manager of Body Image Gym, made presentations to the respective winners. Also receiving prizes were several junior players including 13-year old Quanell Walker, who reached the second round of the men’s singles, defeating veteran Kent Joseph. 

Speaking at the prize giving ceremony, Mr. Joseph says the idea for staging an open tournament was born out of the desire to raise the level of junior players by having them compete against senior players. 

President of the Grenada Table Tennis Association Dr. Alister Antoine congratulated the players for an excellent tournament and encouraged them to continue working to improve the quality of their game. For more information, please contact Dr. Alister Antoine – President, GTTA (Tel. 405-3210).