The second edition of the Otumfuo Smash Table Tennis Tournament has drawn to a successful close after two thrilling days of competition in Kumasi. The event brought together a mix of Ghana’s most promising young talents and its experienced, seasoned players for a weekend dedicated to skill, determination, and true sportsmanship.
Organized under the guidance of the Ghana Table Tennis Association (GTTA), the tournament provided a platform for competitors across a range of categories.
From the senior men and women to the youth and mini cadet divisions, every match added to the excitement of the event, showcasing the depth of talent present in the country.
In the men’s singles final, James Marfo delivered an impressive performance to claim the title. He secured his victory after a hard-fought match against Francis Antwi. Meanwhile, the joint third-place position in the men’s category was shared by Emmanuel Commey and Samuel Hagan.
The women’s singles event was equally compelling, with Augustina Baidoo putting on a strong display to become the champion. She outperformed Cynthia Kwabi, who finished as the runner-up. The joint third-place spots in the senior women’s division went to Eva Adom-Amankwaa and Joanita Borteye.
One of the standout performers of the tournament was Joanita Borteye, who demonstrated remarkable form in the youth division. In the Girls’ Under-19 category, Borteye clinched the title after a exciting final match against Emmanuella Yaa Kyere.
Diana Bortelley Quaye and Emerald Bortey finished as the joint third-place winners in that category.
Borteye’s achievement in the U19s was made even more impressive by her simultaneous success in the senior women’s event, where she secured a podium finish. This double feat marked her as one of the tournament’s most promising players.
In the Boys’ Under-19 category, it was Israel Aklie who emerged as the champion. He delivered a powerful performance in his final match to defeat Frederick Mensah and secure the title. Michael Agyapong and Joshua Kotei Nii Quaye rounded out the podium as joint third-place winners.
The tournament also served as a valuable platform for the youngest competitors, showcasing the future of Ghanaian table tennis. In the Boys’ Under-12 category, Emmanuel Azu played his way to the championship position, with Ransford Antwi finishing as the runner-up.
The Girls’ Under-12 event saw Lovelyn Akua Yeboah emerge as the winner, while Sheila Akolgo took the runner-up spot. The energy and promise displayed by these young athletes were a clear highlight of the two-day competition.
Following a successful maiden edition, which saw players like Felix Lartey and Joanita Borteye claim titles, this second edition has further strengthened its reputation. It continues to offer young players valuable exposure to high-level competition while also attracting some of the country’s top talent.