At present, there is only one name in discussion among TT lovers in India and that is Prasunna Parekh. She raised India’s flag high at the biggest Table Tennis event which concluded in Rome, Italy recently. With the participation of 6100 players in the age group of 40 to 99 years from 110 countries in the world, this was perhaps the biggest table tennis event organised by International Table Tennis Federation ( ITTF).
Prasunna Parekh
India’s Prasunna Parekh who played in the 45+ age group main draw, went on to bag three medals in this tournament. Prasunna won her Gold medal in Women’s doubles, partnering Minu Basak, a bronze partnering K. Srvatsa in Mixed doubles and another Bronze in Women’s singles.
Prasunna sharing the happy moment with her husband
Magzmumbai spoke to Prasunna, after her return to India, to congratulate on her grand success. Speaking about her success, she said, “ Yes, winning three medals was a big achievement, as there was tough competition from players of other countries. But, my hard work paid the dividends.”
Prasunna ( 2nd from Left) with Siddhi Patel, khwaish Lotia 4) Fiza pawar, Bhavina Patel (Olympic medalist Tokyo silver medal) , Pratha Pawar (international medalist) , Mahi Patel and Lalan Doshi ( coach and brother of Prasunna).
Prasunna, a former State player of Gujarat started playing Table Tennis at a young age. She had taken a break after after marriage; but after becoming eligible for Masters’ event, she made her comeback in 2016 with the support received from her husband and family members and went on to become a National Champion in 2018. Prasunna also won 2 Silver medals at the last World Masters’ TT Championship at Oman.
An employee of Postal Department in Gujarat, Prasunna who is a fearless and consistent attacking player, received good support from her department for her long practice sessions, which comprised of almost 4 hours a day for the past few months. After winning 3 Gold medals at Commonwealth Masters’ TT Championship in Hyderabad last year, she was determined to win medals at this World Masters’ TT Championship. And she achieved what she could, giving her best. Let’s hope that her achievement receives attention of Sports Ministry and Indin Masters get due recognition from Government of India for their efforts.