110 players from 18 nations participate in Thoddoo Masters Table Tennis tournament

Ihaa Academy, in association with Thoddoo Local Authority Company, has exceeded expectations for the 1st Thoddoo Masters Table Tennis Tournament to be held on August 19-25, with 110 players from 18 countries participating so far.

In a press conference held at the TT hall, Ihaa Academy Advisor (Seaweed) Ahmed Latheef said the tournament will feature players from countries including China, India, Nepal, Russia, Singapore, Turkey, England, Spain and Germany.

He said the participants include Masters world champions, and that there will be performances not usually seen at this level in Maldives.

Masters in table tennis is a category for senior or experienced players, similar to the veterans category in other sports.

The tournament will take place at Thoddoo School's Multi Purpose Hall in collaboration with the Sports Ministry and Table Tennis Association. The venue will be air-conditioned before the tournament begins.

Thoddoo, one of the most extensive local tourism destinations in Maldives, will also offer participants the chance to enjoy the island during the tournament. Activities are planned to experience Maldives culture and the island’s natural beauty.

Special registration fees have been set for players who book accommodation through Thoddoo Local Authority Company.

Island council President Ahmed Karam said one purpose of the tournament is to introduce sports tourism and provide opportunities for guest houses to be filled during the low season. He said the council wants to bring tourists to the island by promoting activities beyond traditional tourism, and this is part of that effort.

Former TT Association president Latheef said a tournament held in a setting like Thoddoo would offer a different experience compared to a tournament in cities in other countries. Activities are planned for players to experience Maldivian culture and local beauty.

He said the tournament will help gain more international attention and hoped it would be held annually.

Ten Maldivian players will take part in the Thoddo Masters TT Tournament.

Ihaa Academy Managing Director Afnaan Ibrahim said the tournament will give them good exposure and will also provide opportunities for those interested in the sport in Thoddoo. A special training program has been conducted for Thoddoo School.

Ihaa Academy, founded four years ago by (Seaweed) Ibrahim Latheef (Ibbe) and (Thaalhafili) Ali Adam Maniku (Alibey), has trained over 250 players so far. Some have gained experience abroad, and several academy players are now competing at the national level.