The activity of Ping Pong or Table Tennis in community facilities is sweeping the country in the latest initiative to engage with over 65s in our communities and encourage activity in later life.
To help promote this campaign a film has been produced which will be screened at The Hayling Island Community Centre on Tuesday 25th February at 4pm. Admission is free and spaces are limited so book early at the office on 02392 467562.
The film is funny and emotional and follows eight older people as they prepare to compete in the World over 80s Table Tennis Championships in Inner Mongolia. After the film there will be a table tennis demonstration and a hands-on session to have a go if you want to.
Councillor Yvonne Weeks responsible for Economy and Communities said; This is an activity which older people with limited mobility can enjoy. It is an Olympic Sport too which follows on from the 2012 Olympic Games legacy.
The objective of the campaign is to generate interest in the sport within the older community and run tournaments with a final being held at Fleming Park Leisure Centre in Eastleigh in the autumn next year.
Richard Wood community officer for leisure and sport at Havant Borough Council said: It is such an accessible easy game to play. A lot of older people played it when they were younger. There are different variations of the game that you can play depending on whether youve got good or poor mobility. You can play seated or standing and you can play with or without a net. The game can help people with mobility issues by improving their balance and even learning how to hold the bat steady can really improve peoples confidence. The Council wants to encourage people to stay active and lead independent lives.
The Community Centre will also be starting a weekly table tennis club a fortnight later on Tuesday 11th March from 3.30-5.30pm. People of all ages and ability are welcome to join in the fun and the first week is free. Please call Keith Weeks on 02392 466882 for more information or to book your place.
