Newly formed table tennis club in Mayo stages highly entertaining opening night

The newly formed Foxford Table Tennis Club staged a highly entertaining opening night recently, and has confirmed that membership has already reached 52 in number.

On the night, national champions David and Michael McDonnnell, two brothers from Ballina, challenged Eddie Jnr and Martin Ditchburn, also brothers and national champions, over four singles and one double event.

The Foxford players were victorious on the night but the Ballina players intend to stage a rematch in the coming weeks.

To show the Foxford duo appreciation for all their time and commitment in the past in getting the premises prepared for the opening night and coaching the members in the future, Foxford Table Tennis Club has decided to stage a major open tournament over two days on November 28 and 29 next.

The event will be named the Eddie Ditchburn Memorial Tournament in memory of Eddie Jnr and Martin's father, who passed away in 2023. Eddie Snr was an excellent player and coach who coached at many clubs in the area before his untimely passing.

The tournament will be open to everyone and will consist of three divisions – junior, senior and elite. Entries are now open and can be made by contacting (086) 837 3646.

Meanwhile, adult training takes place at Belgarrow, Foxford, on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, with Under 18 training on Sunday afternoon. New members are welcome to attend.