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Tag: Canaan Table Tennis Club

  • Hope Udoaka of Canaan Table Tennis Club Emerges National Women’s Champion at 10th ELICRIS Invitational Tournament

    Hope Udoaka of Canaan Table Tennis Club Emerges National Women’s Champion at 10th ELICRIS Invitational Tournament

    …Thanks Chairman of Canaan Table Tennis Club, Rt Hon Orok Duke for his unwavering support

    By Kelvin Obambon

    Canaan Table Tennis Club of Calabar star, Hope Udoaka, has been crowned the National Women’s Champion at the 10th edition of the ELICRIS National Table Tennis Top 32 Invitational Championship organized by the Lagos State Table Tennis Association (LSTTA) in collaboration with the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF) and BAA Foundation.

    Udoaka defeated Sukurat Aiyelebegan 4-2 in the finals to retain her national championship title.

    Speaking shortly after the game, the star player attributed the success to the unwavering support and commitment of the Chairman of Canaan Table Tennis Club, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke towards grooming players in Cross River and pushing them up to compete in national and international competitions.

    “All thanks to God and Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, Chairman of Canaan Table Tennis Club for making it possible for me to attend this invitational championship. All thanks to him for his support so far in bringing up players from Cross River State. It’s a thing of joy to announce that I once again defended the title,” she said.

    Reacting to the win, Chairman of Canaan Table Tennis Club, Rt Hon Orok Duke, congratulated Udoaka and commended her for displaying uncommon athleticism throughout the competition.

    Read Also: Canaan Table Tennis Club of Calabar Star, Hope Udoaka, participates in 10th ELICRIS National Championship

    He said Udoaka’s triumph not only showcased her skill and determination but also represents a significant achievement for Canaan Table Tennis Club of Calabar.

    The 10th ELICRIS invitational championship which took place at the Sir Chief Molade Okoya Thomas Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, Lagos, brought together top table tennis talents from across Nigeria. Players arrived on Sunday, 22nd December 2024, and matches commenced on Monday, 23rd and concluded on Tuesday, 24th December 2024.

    The event featured Men’s Singles and Women’s Singles categories across two divisions: the Open category and the U-19 category. A total of 64 players (32 men and 32 women) were invited, alongside reserves. Matches were played in two stages: a group stage featuring round-robin games and a knockout stage.

    The round-robin matches and initial knockout rounds were decided over five games, while semi-final and final matches were played over seven games.

  • Canaan Table Tennis Club of Calabar Star, Hope Udoaka, participates in 10th ELICRIS National Championship

    Canaan Table Tennis Club of Calabar Star, Hope Udoaka, participates in 10th ELICRIS National Championship

    Lagos, Nigeria – The Lagos State Table Tennis Association (LSTTA), in collaboration with the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation and BAA Foundation, is poised to stage the 10th edition of the ELICRIS Cups National Table Tennis Top 32 Invitational Championship.

    This much-anticipated event will bring together top table tennis talents from across Nigeria, including Hope Udoaka of Canaan Table Tennis Club, in a thrilling competition to close the year.

    The championship is scheduled to take place at the prestigious Sir Chief Molade Okoya Thomas Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, Lagos. Players will arrive on Sunday, 22nd December 2024, with matches commencing on Monday, 23rd and concluding on Tuesday, 24th December 2024.

    The event will feature the Men’s Singles and Women’s Singles categories across two divisions: the Open category and the U-19 category. A total of 64 players (32 men and 32 women) have been invited, alongside reserves. Matches will be played in two stages: a group stage featuring round-robin games and a knockout stage. The round-robin matches and initial knockout rounds will be decided over five games, while semi-final and final matches will be played over seven games.

    Read Also: Presidency berates Obi for allegedly politicising death of over 70 Nigerians in stampedes

    The championship offers a total prize pool of 83,000,000. Winners in both the Men’s and Women’s Singles categories will receive N500,000 each, while runners-up and other finalists will also earn substantial rewards. Additional prizes include 850,000 each for the Most Valuable Players (MVPs) and the Best Dressed Players (Male and Female).

    The championship will feature Nigeria’s top-ranked players, including Matthew Kuti from Lagos, Hope Udoaka from Canaan TTC, and several other stars representing states and clubs nationwide. The U-19 category will showcase emerging talents such as Abdulqudus Abdulsalam from Kaduna Club and Aishat Abdulwaheed, also from Kaduna Club.

    Participation is free, but players must confirm their availability with the Competition Manager and the Referee by 16th December 2024. Failure to confirm or attend after confirmation will attract sanctions.

    For inquiries, participants can reach out to Dayo Abulude (Secretary), Olalekan Okusan (Media Officer), or other designated officials.

    The 10th ELICRIS Cups promises intense competition and a grand celebration of Nigerian table tennis. Enthusiasts and fans are encouraged to witness this showcase of skill and passion in Lagos.

  • Editorial: Rt Hon Orok Duke and Offiong Edem: A Legacy of Talent and Dedication in Nigerian Table Tennis

    Editorial: Rt Hon Orok Duke and Offiong Edem: A Legacy of Talent and Dedication in Nigerian Table Tennis

    Offiong Edem stands as a towering figure in Nigerian sports, with a remarkable career in table tennis that spans nearly two decades. Her journey to international acclaim began at the 2004 Athens Olympics, where she first showcased her immense talent. Since then, she has represented Nigeria with distinction at the London Olympics in 2012, the Rio de Janeiro Olympics in 2016, and the Tokyo Olympics in 2020. Most recently, in 2024, Edem proudly carried the Nigerian flag at the Paris Olympics.

    In the current table tennis rankings, Offiong Edem holds the top position in Nigeria and is ranked 89th globally among female players. Her illustrious career is marked by a remarkable collection of 15 medals, including six Gold, four Silver, and five Bronze, attesting to her consistent performance and dedication to the sport.

    At the Paris Olympics, Edem competed fiercely in the women’s singles event. She faced a tough opponent in Brazil’s Takahashi Bruna during the round of 64. Despite her valiant efforts, Edem was defeated 0-4, with the match scores being 11-8, 11-4, 13-11, and 12-10. This result placed her 23rd in the women’s singles rankings at the Olympics.

    Beyond her sporting achievements, Offiong Edem has made significant contributions off the table. She established the Offiong Edem Foundation, a philanthropic organization aimed at fostering personal development for young Nigerians through table tennis. The foundation’s mission is to empower street children by providing them with opportunities to pursue their dreams through sport. It offers training, mentorship, and support to help these young individuals excel both in table tennis and in life.

    Edem is also a pioneer member of the Canaan Table Tennis Club, an institution dedicated to nurturing and developing table tennis talent.

    Orok Duke, the esteemed chairman of the Canaan Table Tennis Club, is a cornerstone of Nigerian table tennis. His unwavering dedication and strategic leadership have been instrumental in the club’s success. Duke’s visionary approach not only focuses on nurturing talent but also on ensuring that players have the necessary resources and support to excel.

    His efforts go beyond the confines of the club, securing accommodations and sponsorships for competitions both within and outside Nigeria. Duke’s commitment to the sport and his players has created an environment where athletes like Offiong Edem can thrive, making him a highly respected figure in the table tennis community. His passion and hard work have left an indelible mark, inspiring countless young athletes to pursue their dreams.

    Through her foundation and active involvement in the Canaan Table Tennis Club, Offiong Edem continues to inspire and mentor the next generation of table tennis players in Nigeria. Her legacy extends far beyond her achievements, as she plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of the sport and making a lasting impact on the lives of many young athletes.

    This journey of excellence and mentorship would not have been possible without the unwavering support and visionary leadership of Rt. Hon. Orok Duke. As a staunch advocate for young talent, Duke’s efforts in discovering and nurturing athletes like Offiong Edem have not only elevated the sport of table tennis in Nigeria but have also provided countless opportunities for young athletes to pursue their dreams.

  • You made Nigeria proud, Sports Minister tells Canaan Queens, 2024 African Club Table Tennis Championship Runners up

    You made Nigeria proud, Sports Minister tells Canaan Queens, 2024 African Club Table Tennis Championship Runners up

    By Kelvin Obambon

    The Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan-Enoh has congratulated Canaan Queens, players of the Canaan Table Tennis Club of Calabar, for making Nigeria proud in the recently concluded African Club Table Tennis Championship held in Benghazi, Libya.

    The Honourable Minister who extended his congratulation to the team via a telephone call with Chairman of Canaan Table Tennis Club of Calabar, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, said that Canaan Queens represented the country well at the international table tennis tourney.

    While commending Hon. Orok Duke for his unwavering support to the team, the Minister noted that his effort goes to demonstrate how individuals can contribute significantly to the development of sports in Nigeria.

    Read Also: Gov Otu congratulates Canaan Queens as they finish 2nd place in African Club Table Tennis Championship in Libya

    Canaan Queens who represented Nigeria at the continental competition won their matches against Benghazi Al Jahdida of Libya and Commercial Bank Club (Ethiopia) in the Women’s Team Semifinals to set up a finals with Petrojet Tennis Club of Egypt.

    They emerged runners up after losing to the Egyptian side, Petrojet 3-1, 3-1, 3-2 in the finals.

  • Photo News: Canaan Table Tennis Club departs Benghazi, Libya with farewell tribute

    Photo News: Canaan Table Tennis Club departs Benghazi, Libya with farewell tribute

    By Kelvin Obambon

    Canaan Table Tennis Club of Calabar, Nigeria’s representative at the just concluded 2024 African Club Table Tennis Championship in Benghazi, Libya, has wrapped up its participation in the continental tourney, having emerged second runners up in the star-studded competition.

    After receiving their medals, the team is  now set to depart the north African country for Nigeria.

    Chairman of Canaan Table Tennis Club, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke who led the team to Libya, in a brief tribute said:

    “As our dalliance comes to an end:
    We turn the bend
    And the sun stings my eyes,
    We turn and say our goodbyes,
    Here in Benghazi,
    As Cairo beckons.
    African Table Tennis,
    Nigerian Table Tennis,
    Canaan Queens of Calabar;
    With their silver medals in tow,
    We greet you all.
    Thank you, Benghazi.”

  • Gov Otu congratulates Canaan Queens as they finish 2nd place in African Club Table Tennis Championship in Libya

    Gov Otu congratulates Canaan Queens as they finish 2nd place in African Club Table Tennis Championship in Libya

     

    Cross River State Governor, Prince Bassey Otu, has congratulated Canaan Queens, players of the Canaan Table Tennis Club of Calabar, for giving a good account of themselves in the just concluded African Club Table Tennis Championship in Libya.

    The governor who congratulated the team via a video call, lauded them for their doggedness and determination which saw them through to the finals and subsequently emerging second runners up in a competition brimmed with stars from across the continent.

    He said their performance in the continental tourney exemplifies the unwavering spirit of Nigerians, adding that the Queens beyond flying the country’s flag in the international competition, are worthy ambassadors of Cross River and that the state is proud of them.

    Read Also: Benghazi 2024: Nigeria’s representative at African Table Tennis Club Championship, Canaan Queens of Calabar, qualify for finals

    Gov Otu therefore promised to support Canaan Table Tennis Club of Calabar, and as well as the two Olympians among them that will represent Cross River, Nigeria and Africa at the 2024 Olympics Games in Paris, France.

    Canaan Queens who represented Nigeria won their matches against Benghazi Al Jahdida of Libya and Commercial Bank Club (Ethiopia) in the Women’s Team Semifinals to set up a finals with Petrojet Tennis Club of Egypt.

    They emerged runners up after losing to the Egyptian side Petrojet 3-1, 3-1, 3-2 in the finals.

  • Benghazi 2024: Nigeria’s representative at African Table Tennis Club Championship, Canaan Queens of Calabar, qualify for finals

    Benghazi 2024: Nigeria’s representative at African Table Tennis Club Championship, Canaan Queens of Calabar, qualify for finals

     

    By Kelvin Obambon

    The team representing Nigeria at the ongoing 2024 African Table Tennis Club Championship in Benghzi, Canaan Queens of Calabar, have made it through to the finals after eliminating the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia Table Tennis Club 3-0 in a thrilling encounter in women’s semi finals today 26th June, 2024.

    Canaan Queens who are players of the Canaan Table Tennis Club of Calabar, founded by Cross River’s seasoned sports administrator and veteran, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, have qualified for the finals alongside Petrojet Table Tennis Club of Egypt.

    The final showdown between Petrojet Table Tennis Club of Egypt and Canaan Table Tennis Club of Calabar is slated for Thursday 27 June, 2024 by 10:00am Nigerian time.

    The showpiece is taking place in the city of Benghazi, Libya.

  • Canaan Queens of Calabar arrive Benghazi for African Club Table Tennis Championship

    Canaan Queens of Calabar arrive Benghazi for African Club Table Tennis Championship

    …To face Libyan Ladies in the quarterfinals by 5PM today

    Canaan Queens of Calabar, the star players of the Canaan Table Tennis Club Team from Nigeria, has landed in Libya to participate in the African Club Table Tennis Championship in Benghazi. The team is led by Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, the Cross River State representative in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), who is also the founder and grand patron of Canaan Table Tennis Club of Calabar.

    The tournament, featuring top talents in Africa, promises to be a thrilling display of skill and competition. Canaan Queens, known for their exceptional agility and strategic play, is expected to be a strong contender. Their participation highlights the growing prominence of Nigerian sports on the international table tennis stage.

    Hon. Orok Duke expressed his optimism about the team’s prospects, stating, “Canaan Queens’ participation is a testament to their hard work and a beacon of hope for young athletes in Nigeria.” His support emphasizes the importance of sports development in the Niger Delta region and Nigeria as a whole.

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    The Canaan Table Tennis Club Team has prepared rigorously for the tournament, and their presence in Benghazi, Libya demonstrates their commitment to excellence. As the games unfold, all eyes will be on Canaan Queens, whose performance could inspire a new generation of Nigerian table tennis players. The Canaan Table Tennis Club Team is poised to make a memorable impact in the tournament.

    As the African Club Table Tennis Championship in Benghazi, Libya kicks off today, Canaan Table Tennis Club will face the Libyan ladies in the quarterfinals by 5PM Nigerian time.

    The tournament serves as a qualification for the World Club Championship.