Pool party in tavern  |
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On Friday evening everything was set for the pool party. Candlelight, bars, and tables around the big pool at the hotel Delfin in Poreč, Latino band, and animators who were supposed to entertained and teach how to move to the rhythm of Latino music. Unfortunately, just as the band started playing, due to the rain, the pool party went from pool to hotel’s tavern. However, although in a different surrounding the party continued in an equally good mood. Lead by the animators, the guest soon started dancing, and after a few Latino dance lessons, continued to enjoy the sounds of music played by the DJ and the band. |
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Two gold medals for Batinić and Bentsen |
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In front of the big crowd in the hall Žatika 8th European veteran table tennis championship was officially closed on Saturday. Saturday was the day for semi final and final matches – the whole program started around 11.00 am and by 5.00 pm, almost hundred matches had been played, and by 5 pm there were 32 new European veteran champions.
Croatian player Branka Batinić won two gold medals. After winning in doubles with her partner Larissa Farina, Branka beat Antonyan Elmira in the women’s 50-59 singles final.
- I played better and better from match to match. I am happy I won; medal was something I was hoping for before the beginning of the EVTTC. I knew my final opponent Elmira ANTONYAN of Switzerland from the professional period, so I was prepared - sad Branka.
Former Romanian triple European Championship, Olga Nemes played for Germany in Poreč and won two medals. This was my first veteran championships, and I have to say I am pretty happy with the result. At the same time, I was the first seed, so it was expected from me to win the tournament – sad Olga. Denmark’s Allan Bentsen took the title in the men’s 40-49 category. In the final match he beat his doubles partner Vandelbo. The tournament was quite easy. This is what I came for, and what I was going for, but of course I still had to play all the matches – said Bentsen. So after six days and around nine thousand played matches the 8th European veteran table tennis championships was brought to an end. Championships that broke the record by the number of the participants was closed in the same hall where it was opened, in Žatika. 2009 EVC PoreČ winners MS 40 – 49:Allan BENTSEN (Denmark) MD 40 – 49: Henrik VENDELBO, Allan BENTSEN (Denmark, Denmark) WS 40 – 49: Olga NEMES (Germany) WD 40 – 49: Olga NEMES, Szilvia KAHN (Germany, Germany) MS 50 – 59: DING Yi (Austria) MD 50 – 59: Gerd WERNER, Bernhard THIEL (Germany, Germany) WS 50 – 59: Branka BATINIC (Croatia) WD 50 – 59: Branka BATINIC, Larisa FARINA (Croatia, Russia) MS 60 – 64: Claus PEDERSEN (Denmark) MD 60 – 64: Karel SEKANINA, Jaroslav KUCERA (Czech Republic, Czech Republic) WS 60 – 64: Jutta TRAPP (Germany) WD 60 – 64: Christina LUBBE, Karin FLEMKE (Germany, Germany) MS 65 – 69: Dimitrije BILIC (Germany) MD 65 – 69: Jurgen LANGER, Horst LANGER (Germany, Germany) WS 65 – 69: Jarmila HUMMELOVA (Czech Republic) WD 65 – 69: Karin RAUSCHER, Rosi BERG (Germany, Germany), MS 70 – 74: Horst LANGER (Germany) MD 70 – 74: Peter STOLZENBURG, Valer LANGEHEGERMANN (Germany, Luxemburg) WS 70 – 74: Jean WHITE (England) WD 70 – 74: Marianne ERNST, Lilo WOLKMANN (Germany, Germany) MS 75 – 79: Jozsef MAYER (Hungary) MD 75 – 79: Georg MACH, Zdenek LHOTKA (Switzerland, Czech Republic) WS 75 – 79: Marianne BLASBERG (Germany) WD 75 – 79: Pamela BUTCHER, Marianne BLASBERG (England, Germany) MS 80 – 84: Toni BREUMAIR (Germany) MD 80 – 84: Terry DONLON, Geofrey BROOK (England, England) WS 80 – 84: Ursula KARESEIT (Germany) WD 80 – 84: Luise STOBER Ursula KARESEIT (Germany, Germany) MS 85+: Armin ECKERT (Germany) MD 85 +: Hubert LEVINGE, Leslie DARCY (Ireland, England) WS 85+: Ursula BIHL WD 85+: Inge Brigitte HERMAN, Ursula BIHL (Germany, Germany) |
Colum: I started my career in Croatia I should finish it in Croatia as well |
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One of the favourites who didn’t confirm their status in Poreč is Slevin Colum. An Irishman who won a gold medal at the last European veteran championships in Rotterdam lost at the beginning of the main tournament. After cruising through his preliminary group matches, Colum lost to Edward Smith in the second round of the main draw. I have to say I was a bit surprised, I didn’t expect my opponent to play as well as he did. Before I had a chance to do something it was already over. However, the defeat did not bring him down. Of course I am a bit disappointed, but not as much as I would have been if something like this happened for example fifteen years ago. This is not a professional tournament, so it’s not life and death situation. I am trying to look on the positive side, at least now I have time to prepare for ma doubles match and also enjoy some sun and the sea – says Colum who’s doubles partner Carsten Egeholt also lost his singles match. But the fact that he didn’t win should not come as a surprise – it was only after he realized that the EVTTC will take place in Croatia that he decided to participate. Poreč is fantastic. People here are very friendly and the whole atmosphere is amazing. So if I had won my matches it would only have come as a bonus, because I already am enjoying myself here in Poreč – says Colum who used to be a professional table tennis player for nine years before switching to the veteran category. What is the biggest difference between professional and veteran tournaments? The biggest difference is that veteran tournaments are a lot friendlier. Winning is not a priority, therefore the participants have a lot more time so enjoy themselves – says Irishman who’s only regret is that due to his defeat he won’t get a chance to play Allan Bentsen. There is at least a dozen good players here in Poreč, but Bentsen a on a different, higher level and I believe he will win the tournament. Unfortunately it seems that this tournament was also his only opportunity to play Bentsen… I played my first international tournament in Zagreb when I was ten, maybe this should be my last tournament. I started in Croatia; I may as well finish my career in Croatia. |
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Batinić, Bentsen and Ding Yi in semi-finals |
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Around three hundred matches were played on Friday at the European veteran table tennis championships in Poreč. As expected, Denmark’s Allan Bentsen reached semi-finals in both singles and doubles in the 40-49 category. Equally successful was Croatian player Branka Batinić, who thus made another step toward fulfilling her biggest wish – winning a medal. Favourites of the men’s 50-59 category, Austrian Ding Yi and Czech player Miroslav Cecava also made it through to the semi-finals. One player who lost his chance to defend the title from the last European Championships in Rotterdam is Slevin Colum. The Irishman lost his second round match to English player Edward Smith. Semi final and final matched will be played on Saturday starting at 11.00 am. |
Bentsen: When I play I play to win |
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There are over two thousand players at the European veterans’ table tennis championships in Poreč. However, one of the best is definitely Allan Bentsen. A Danish player who has been ranked 38 in the world professionally, was the winner of Danish national championships six times in singles and 12 times in doubles, and has won the team gold medal at the European championships in Arhaus 2005, had an easy job in Poreč so far. After he won all three matches in his preliminary group without losing a set, as the first seed was bye the first round, and then easily won the next two rounds of the main draw. - It has been easy so far, but I have seen some good players. However I am the first seed, and I have to defend my seeding. So, my main goal is to win a gold medal – says Bentsen, although admitting the tournament is not the main reason why he is in Poreč. - I am here because I am practically half Croatian - explained the Danish player, who married a former Croatian national champion Eldijana Aganović. Seeing that he recently played professional tournaments, plus he just turned 40, which is an important condition to play in veteran tournaments Bentsen is not used to the conditions in which the veteran tournaments are being played. At the professional tournaments there is no viewers or audience next to the tables, there is only a coach, and at the veteran tournaments there is audience everywhere. There is at least ten people around the desk at all times, so it’s a bit different, however, one needs to accept that in order to play. Apart from numerous viewers close to the tables, there is something else players have to accept in Poreč - the fact that the tournament is being played at four different locations. Žatika is definitely the nicest hall in Poreč with the best conditions, however, I have already played in Veli Jože and Intersport and I think those halls are good as well , players just need to adjust. I am happy with the way I have been playing. I enjoy playing, and when I play I play to win – said Bentsen. |
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Easy job for the favorites |
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After a day off on Wednesday, first and second rounds of the main and consolation draw were played in Thursday. Same as the preliminary matches, the main draw matches did not bring many surprises. Among the favourites, the easiest job had Austrian player Ding Yi. Although only 166 cm tall, the Austrian with the big forehand attack, who was one of the first Chinese players allowed to Europe, won the title of Austrian national champion many times, and at the moment holds the veteran world champion title played two matches on Thursday and easily won both. What’s even more interesting is the fact that it took him only little over ten minutes to win his second round match against the German Schwalfenberg. Only in third set did the German manage to win some more points, but it was not enough for a set. The competition continues on Friday with the third round matches. |
Ding Yi is enjoying the EVTTC in Poreč |
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Many records have been broken at the European veteran table tennis championships in Poreč. First of all, by the number of players – 2.500, and along with that comes the record for the number of matches played. The latest one was broken by Austrian player Ding Yi. Although, his one has not been officially recorded, it can definitely be placed in that category. It took him only ten minutes to win his second round match against the German player Schwalfenberg, which actually should not come as a surprise since Ding Yi is a veteran world champion (Rio de Janeiro). In spite of the outcome of his matches so far, the Austrian remains modest. I am not sure how the tournament will go, I watched some other matches, and I can say there are many good players here in Poreč – says Ding Yi. This is his first year in 50-59 category. - I have to say that the competition is a bit tougher in the 40- 49 category, but still, its will not be easy. The Austrian is also very pleased with the playing conditions. Žatika is the perfect hall, and it is really nice to play in here – says Ding Yi, who is not only happy with the hall but also enjoys his stay in Poreč. I am very pleased with the organization, but also with the City of Poreč. It’s a beautiful city, people are very nice, and the hotel is excellent. Sounds like a good recipe for success, and considering the way he has been playing so far, a good result should not be a problem for the Austrian. |
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Favorites confirmed their status |
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Tuesday was the last day of the preliminary matches at the European veteran table tennis championships in Poreč. Two days of preliminaries brought over a thousand matches, but there were no major upsets – the favorites confirmed their status. Irish player Slevin Colum, the winner of the gold medal at the European Championships in Rotterdam two years ago in the 40-49 category, had an easy job in his preliminary group winning all of his matches. Even easier job had the former player of Croatian team Večernji list, Denmark’s Allan Bentsen who didn’t lose a single set in his three preliminary matches. A Croatian player, Branka Batinić who plays in the 50-59 years of age category also won all three matches in her preliminary group, thus ensured the appearance in the main draw. Batinić’s doubles partner, Russian Larissa Farina was also successful, and so was the Austrian Ding Yi, who is one of the biggest favorites in the men’s 50-59 category. Wednesday is a day off, the competition (main draw and consolation) continues on Thursday. |
Branka Batinić between problem and players deskk |
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There are 2.500 table tennis players at the European veteran table tennis championships in Poreč. Exactly 87 are from the host county – Croatia, and out of those 87 one player deserves special attention – Branka Batinić. A lady who was once one of the physically best prepared female players in the world, played for Croatian club Mladost Zagreb, and in German Bundesliga, and won numerous European and world medals. After her professional career, she continued to compete at the veteran tournaments with the same success. She was second at the World veteran championships in Yokohama in singles, and won both singles and doubles gold medals at the World Championships in Bremen. Branka came to Poreč on Friday, three days before the beginning of the European Championships. But not so she could practice, but so she could help with the organization. From Friday until Monday she exchanged her racket for a pen and paper and in stead of table tennis table, she was behind the problem desk. There were some very interesting problems and questions, but I enjoy helping and working behind the problems desk, because I love table tennis – says Branka. - I was a part of the organization team at all the major table tennis events in Croatia, from World Championships in Zagreb to Pro Tour tournaments, so I knew what was getting into. Croatia is known for the good organization, of course there are always some problems, but they can all be solved. After three days of dealing with the problems at the problems desk, she had a different desk to attend – the table tennis desk. And, apparently this task was even easier for Branka. She played three matches in her preliminary group, won all three of them, and easily fought her way into the main draw. - There are a lot of good players here and there will be a lot of good matches. It will be tough, but I would really like to win a medal, and I think the medal would be the biggest reward not only for me but also for the organizers – says Branka who is, along with the singles also competing in the doubles tournament. I am playing doubles with Larissa Farina, who is a really good player and we already won a gold medal at the World Championships in Bremen, so I am hoping to reach at least semi-finals. It will be a really tough competition, however I believe Larissa and I can repeat the good result from Bremen. |
European veteran table tennis championship started Monday |
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European veteran table tennis championships started on Monday at 9.00 am in Poreč’s four sport halls – Žatika, Veli Jože, Intersport and Diamant. The championship that broke the record by the number of participants (2.500) will be played on 95 tables, and during the qualifications over 2.500 matches will be played. Monday and Tuesday are reserved for qualifications; Wednesday is a day off, while the main and consolation matches will be played on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. There are 32 categories - eight in men’s singles, eight in men’s doubles, and eight in women’s singles as well in doubles. The category with most players is the one from 50 to 59 years of age, with over 500 players, however there is another category that is getting a lot of attention, the one over 85 years of age – there are six players in Poreč who are over 90. |
Opening ceremony of the 8th European veterans table tennis championships |
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In front of the big crowd in the hall Žatika, the 8th European veteran’s table tennis championship in Poreč was officially opened on Sunday. Along with the welcoming speeches, the opening ceremony, also offered various forms of presentation, from folklore to the performance of klapa, through which the organizers tried to introduce the participants to the natural and historical beauties as well as cultural heritage of Istria and Croatia. Furthermore, the ceremony was used as an opportunity to present CTTA with the 85.900 euros check raised to help Croatian table tennis player Sandra Paović who was seriously injured in a car accident five months ago. With this check we showed and proved that we are a big family, and if any of you ever need any help, we as a family would be there for you – sad the president of the Organizing committee EVTTC 2009, Ivo Goran Munivrana. Sunday was also the second day of the accreditation, and most of the players and accompanying persons, around 3.200 of them were accredited. |
Accreditation of players started on Saturdayay |
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Saturday was the first accreditation day for the EVTTC. And even before 10 o’clock there were already more than fifty players lined up in front of the accreditation hall. Within the first hour there were already around two hundred accredited players. And as soon as they were done with the accreditation, most players went to practice – all the players with accreditation had the option of using practice tables in the halls Žatika and Veli Jože.
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Eberhard Schöler believes in success of Poreč |
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Three days before the beginning of the European veteran table tennis Championships in Poreč the press conference was held in the hall Žatika in Poreč. At the conference were present the president of the organizing committee of the EVTTC 2009, Ivo Goran Munivrana; the tournament director, Viktor Vetturelli; director of the regional tour operator Uniline, Boris Žgomba; the Mayor of the City of Poreč, Edi Štifanić, and the deputy president of the ETTU Eberhard Schöler.
- As important as it is for Croatia and Croatian tourism, the European veteran table tennis championship is very important for the City of Poreč as well. What was once known as the championship of “freaks” is nowadays a very important tournament, enjoying big interest and popularity. And along with the organization of the veteran championships comes the same responsibility as with the professional championships – said the President of the organizing committee of the EVTTC Ivo Goran Munivrana.
- When we first started bidding for the organization of this event, it seemed as an illusion, but thanks to the Mayor of the City of Poreč, Edi Štifanić who recognized the importance of this event, we won the bid and hope to successfully bring the Championships to its end. Mayor of the City of Poreč, Edi Štifanić was of a similar opinion. - When we first talked about hosting the EVTTC, the president of ETTU, Stefano Bosi told us that the organization of the veteran tournament is more difficult than the organization of the professional World Championships. But I am sure we will maintain a very high standard. Our aim is to promote Poreč, and we want our guests to leave Poreč with very positive impressions. Furthermore, once the championship is over, Poreč will have 50 table tennis tables, which will enable us to organize more events – said Štifanić. With 2.500 participants, the European veteran table tennis championship in Poreč is the biggest European veteran table tennis event so far. In addition, it will be held in four different halls. In order for all the participants to find their way around Poreč as well as the halls, the regional tour operator Uniline, will provide the much needed logistic support in terms of transportation and accommodation. - This manifestation is of a big tourist and marketing value for Poreč, and we are glad we have the chance to support the whole event Pleased with what he saw was also the deputy president of ETTU, Eberhard Schöler. As a person who participated in many professional and veteran events, Schöler knows how difficult it is organize such an event. - I have to admit, I was a little bit sceptic before I came to Poreč. But now that I have seen the halls and the City of Poreč, I have to say I believe the participants will be very happy. The halls are great, the weather is nice, the environment is beautiful and I am sure everyone will love it here in Poreč – said Schöler. |
Official draw of the EVTTC 2009 |
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The official draw of the EVTTC 2009 was held on Wednesday, June 3rd. The draw was held in the presence of the ETTU competition manager Roman Pleše, president of the organizing committee Ivo Goran Munivrana, tournament director Viktor Vetturelli, head of the IT sector of EVTTC 2009 Alen Ivančin, and the general secretary of CTTA, Žarko Ratković. Due to a large number of participants, it is not surprising that the draw went on for seven hours. However, it all went smoothly. I am very please with how the singles draw was done, because it will give us a good base for the rest of the draw. In a few days, we will have to do the same thing for the doubles event, however, after the singles draw, I can say that the most difficult part is behind us, and everything else will be much easier – said the ETTU competition manager, Roman Pleše. Everything is ready for the EVTTC 2009. There has been an opponent, hall, table and time table set for each participant. In addition, the number of qualifying matches that will be played is 941; the number of matches that will be played is around eight thousand, depending on a number of players who will enter the consolation draw. The consolation draw can enter each player who came third of fourth in the group. The winner and the runner-up of the group will proceed to the main event. |
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Pool Party |
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Pool Party will be held in the beautiful ambient of hotel Delfin at the Plava laguna resort. Located close to the sea, the terrace of the hotel Delfin offers a breath taking view of the beach. The guest will be entertained by Latino band Alvarez, and those willing to learn how to dance will have a chance to do so with the help of hostess’.
Party will be held on Friday, June 19th at 9.00 pm. The entry fee is 25 euros and includes two free drinks. Tickets for the party will be available at the info desk in the hall Žatika and Intersport.
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Accreditation |
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The accreditation for participants and accompanying persons will be done in the sports hall Žatika on: - Saturday June 13th 2009 from 10.00 – 18.00 hours - Sunday June 14th 2009 from 10.00 – 19.30 hours - Monday June 15th 2009 from 08.00 – 12.00 hours Organizing committee may also ask for identity proof. |
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Free entry for children under 12 |
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Spectator tickets will be available for purchase at the info desk at the following locations – Intersport and hall Žatika. The price of tickets will be 50 kunas per day which is approximately 7 euros, however free entry is secured for children under 12 years of age. Tickets also include free shuttle rides between the halls for the day. Since there will be many interesting matches and popular players at the European Championship, this way even those with out accreditations will have a chance to enjoy best that European veteran table tennis has to offer. |
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Medal winners and famous players among the participants |
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In Poreč there will be a lot of former national team members from many countries, even a dozen medal winners from European and World Championships. To mention some of them; from Czech Republic to Poreč are coming former national team players Miroslav Cecava and Jindrich Pansky. From Luxemburg are arriving, Valentin Langehegemann, from Bulgaria Svetoslav Gerdzikov, former Bulgarian champion. Quite special are some players from Switzerland, Janosz Takacs, Vera Bazzi, former Austrian national team member, Elmira Antonyan, former Sowiet Union champion, Theresa Földy. In Austrian team we will meet again the Austro-Chinese Ding Yi, World Veterans Champion 2008 and 7 times Austrian national champion as well as Stanislaw Fraczyk. From Italy is coming evergreen Edith Szantifaller. The most famous name on the Russian list of participants is Andrej Mazunov. Denmark list is full of well-known names - Allan Bentsen, Claus Pedersen and Nils Ramberg, Susanne Pedersen and Annie Ramberg. From Germany as coming Toni Breumaier, Margit Trupković, Karl-Heinz Russy, all former national team players from different generations. And from Croatia Branka Batinić, Jasenka Roth-Vukušić, Dragan Rakić, Croatian disabled champion. |
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Exhibition area in Žatika |
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During the 2009 European Veteran Championships in Poreč, the main hall Žatika will provide the exhibition area, where players will be able to purchase full table tennis equipment. Starting with the main sponsor Donic, who provided tables, nets, and balls for the Championships, the exhibition area will also offer the equipment from other table tennis equipment manufacturers such as Andro-DHS, Stiga, Joola, Butterfly, Dr Neubauer, Stag i Tibhar. Although the other halls will not provide the exhibition area, players who won't be competing at Žatika will also have a chance to purchase the equipment using the free of charge shuttle busses that will be driving between the halls. |
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Easiest way to find your way around Poreč |
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Since the matches will be played at four different locations, there will be a free of charge shuttle bus driving between the four locations that will be available for all the participants. However, there will also be shuttles available to transport the participants from their hotels and private accommodations to the sport facilities. The price of the tickets will be 49 euros per week for the unlimited number of rides, and the participants will be able to purchase the shuttle tickets at the accreditation office.
Shuttle stops will be in the areas of hotels Zelena Laguna, Plava Laguna, Brulo, Meterada, Pical plus the private accommodation stop which will be assigned at the beginning of the tournament. Shuttle schedule: Monday, Tuesday and Thursday – every 30 minutes starting from 8 am to 8.30 pm Wednesday - every 90 minutes from 9 am to 6 pm Friday- every 60 minutes from 8 am to 8.30 pm |
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RACKET COVERINGS AT EUROPEAN VETERANS CHAMPIONSHIPS IN POREČ |
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According to an unanimous decision of the ETTU Executive Board with regard to the
racket coverings at the forthcoming European Veterans Championships, the ETTU
stick to the valid ITTF regulations |
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Competition hint |
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If the body looses too much water it can result in serious circulatory disturbance While summer can not be hot enough for some people, others groan because of such heat. Everybody longs for cold drinks. As the body looses a lot of water through perspiration it is very important specially in summer to drink enough. Even on cold days we need 1,5 to 2 litres of liquids. As we feel thirst only after the body is already short in supply with water we should get used to take a refreshing draught in between. The following hints give information about the correct drink behaviour in summer: Refreshing drinks containing sugar stop the water on the way to the cells and cause additional thirst. Mineral water is refreshing and without calories. To replace the consumed mineral substances water with lot of minerals is recommended. It pays of to compare mineral content of different products! Beer, wine and other alcoholic drinks develop their effect on heat mostly even faster than usual. As such drinks even deprive the water from the body they are not suitable to quench the thirst. |
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Help for Sandra Paović |
 On the 30th January 2009 our olimpian Sandra Paović had a severe car accident, which happend on her way to the Paris airport, together with other players of the team.In this accident Sandra has been injured very seriously and these days she is figting for her bare life in a french hospital. According to the statement of french doctors (which has also been confermed by german doctors) her chances for full recovery are extremely minimal. But to be able to recover in any sense, and to keep living, there is a need to put Sandra in a special clinic for a tretman which requires enormous amount of money (about 300 € for 9 mounths of treatment). The operation itself and Sandras therapy till today (which will continue for a while) are also huge additional financial problems , which we hope will be covered up by the insurance (altough we doubt it will be sufficient even for this purpose). Croatian Olympic Comittee and Croatian Table Tennis Association have decided to form a special fond of solidarity for our Sandra, and this fond will be also constituted by the Europen Table Tennis Union for International Help. That's why we would like you dear friends of table tennis and sport in general, to recognise this generous action and support it with your financial help (donation), and in this way to contribute Sandras recovery. Sandras recovery and her future life depend on us and our help! In this aim we have opened a giro account in «Privredna banka»: Owner of the account: Hrvatski stolnoteniski savez -HUMANITA Number of the account: 2340009-1510372912 For payment on account comming from foreign countries, its obligatory to point out next: HR14 2340 0091 5103 7291 2 PRIVREDNA BANKA ZAGREB D.D. 10000 Zagreb, Račkoga 6, Croatia SWIFT CODE: PBZGHR2X |
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Your team |
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The team that handles the big rush!!!
In the period from 05.01.2009 - 15.01.2009 there were over 700 applications for the EVTTC 2009. The ladies and gentlemen from the official tour operator Uniline worked around the clock, so that the data of the participants as quickly as possible were recorded Uniline is also your first point of contact for all questions about tourism in Poreč and its surroundings.
Tel: +385 52 390 039 Fax: +385 52 215 036 Mail: online.booking@uniline.hr
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Table Tennis in Aging Population |
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Science Congress "Table Tennis in Aging Population" Science Congress on theme "Table Tennis in Aging Population" accompanying European Veteran Championships will be held in hotel Dijamant in Poreč from 12 - 14th June 2009. European Table Tennis Union, Croatian Table Tennis Association, Faculty of Kinesiology Zagreb and the Sports Faculty Ljubljana are the co organizers of this Congress, the first of its kind in the world. World Table Tennis Association (ITTF) has a long lasting tradition in holding science congresses on table tennis themes. Already ten of such congresses have been held, the tenth jubilee congress during World Championships in Zagreb in 2007. At that time the idea was born to hold a science congress during Veteran Championships in Poreč in 2009, which would deal exclusively with the specific issues regarding table tennis in aging population. Table tennis is one of the rare sports which popularity and usefulness is the same during lifetime, table tennis players use to say it is a sport that people practice from the age to 7 to 77. Even that is not accurate, as one should remember that on veteran world and European championships there is a category from 85 years of age and older! In last two decades the number of veterans practicing table tennis has grown significantly, a great number of players practice regularly and take part on numerous veteran championships. This is absolutely a very good reason to deal with all issues regarding veteran table tennis from scientific point of view - from health aspect to sociological, organizational and sport-technical issues. Reports held by numerous scientists from various colleges from all over the world as well as table tennis coaches and organizers are expected on the Congress. Congress will start three days prior to the beginning of the European Veteran Championships in Poreč, therefore all the interested Championships participants will have the opportunity to come to Poreč earlier, and participate in interesting presentations of scientists regarding the issues of table tennis in aging population.
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List of participants The current list of participants will be published from the 15th of January 2009 in regular intervals under the link "list of participants". Visa Applications Each participant is responsible for his own travel to Croatia as well as arranging a visa in advance (if necessary). A passport or some other identification document recognized by the international agreement is required. For some countries an identity card will be enough. Usually foreign visitors do not need a visa to enter Croatia – if you are not sure whether you need one or not, visit the Croatian Ministry of Foreign Affairs' web page (www.mvpei.hr). If you need a visa invitation, you must request this in writing no later than 1 February 2009 from: Uniline d.o.o. S. Dobrića 16 HR - 52100 Pula Telefon: +385 (0)52 / 390 039 Telefax: +385 (0)52 / 215 036
An
invitation will be provided as soon as the registration fee for the
EVTTC 2009 has been paid in full to the organisation. |
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Andrej Mazunov entered for EVTTC 2009 |
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Russian, born in 1967, won 1984 at European Championships bronze medal in singles and became European vice-champion in 1988. Mazunov participated in all eight Worldchampionships in the period between 1983 and 1999. With Soviet team he won 4th place 1989, with his brother he won bronze medal in doubles at World Championships 1991. In that period he qualified himself for three Olympic Games (1988, 1992, 1996) and seven times for Europe Top 12 ranking tournament.
In 1991
Mazunov moved from Russia to the club TSV Milberthofen in German
Bundesliga and has become first ever Russian player in Bundesliga. |
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World Champions |
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Women's Singles (40-49 Years)
Men's Singles (40-49 Years) 1. DING, Ding Yi (AUT) 2. EGEHOLT, Carsten (DEN) 3. SAVELYEV, Alexander (RUS) 3. SLEVIN, Colum (IRL)
Men's Singles (50-59 Years) 1. CECAVA, Miroslav (CZE) 2. YUXIANG, Li (USA) 3. KALINIC, Zoran (SRB) 3. ORLOWSKI, Milan (CZE)
Men's Singles (60-69 Years) 1. KUNZ, Jaroslav (GER) 2. RAMBERG, Niels (DEN) 3. PEDERSEN, Claus J. (DEN) 3. MATEJICEK, Milos (CZE)
Men's Singles (65-70 Years) 1. SCHMIDT, Wolfgang (GER) 2. BILIC, Dimitrije (GER) 3. VOTIPKA, Emanuel (CZE) 3. FRIEDLÄNDER, Daniel (SUI)
Men's Singles (70-75 Years) 1. LIPPELT, Dieter (GER) 2. RAKOSNIK, Josef (CZE) 3. STEINKÄMPER, Konrad (GER) 3. SEIDL, Josef (CZE)
Men's Singles (75-80 Years) 1. LOCKWOOD, Fred (ENG) 2. STEPANOV, Stepan (RUS) 3. MERIMAA, Kai (FIN) 3. SVENSSON, Nils-Erik (SWE)
Men's Singles (80-85 Years) 1. RUZHA, Lumir (CZE) 2. LUAN YEAN, Tan (MAL) 3. BERG, Carl Bertil (SWE) 3. CHROUST, Rudolf (CZE)
Men's Singles (Over 85 Years) 1. JOING, André (FRA) 2. D´ARCY, Leslie (ENG) 3. CHRISTIAN, Georg (ESP) 3. LEVINGE, Hubert (IRL)
Men's Doubles (40-49 Years) 1. FEJER-KONNERT, Andreas (GER) / CIOCIU, Trajan (LUX) 2. STARK, Andreas (GER) / BERANEK, Peter (GER) 3. KAHARA, Chan (JPN) / TOKAI, Masataka (JPN) 3. BONDARENKO, Anatoly (RUS) / SAVELYEV, Alexander (RUS)
Men's Doubles (50-59 Years) 1. KALINIC, Zoran (SER) / YUXIANG, Li (USA) 2. LINDMAE, Rein (EST) / SEGAL, Leonid (UKR) 3. CECAVA, Miroslav (CZE) / VOJTEK, Jiri (CZE) 3. JIANGUO, Xie (CHN) / SHENGLI, Tong (CHN)
Men's Doubles (60-64 Years) 1. PEDERSEN, Claus J. (DEN) / RAMBERG, Niels (DEN) 2. LING, Sik (MAL) / KUNZ, Jaroslav (GER) 3. THEILLOUT, René (GER) / PLEYER, Gerd (GER) 3. KUCERA, Jaroslav (CZE) / REMES, Zdenek (CZE)
Men's Doubles (65-70 Years) 1. NEUBAUER DR., Herbert (SUI) / SCHMIDT, Wolfgang (GER) 2. LE, Van Inh (AUS) / KLAF, Igor (AUS) 3. IFFLAND, Horst (SUI) / FRIEDLÄNDER, Daniel (SUI) 3. GRUMBACH, Manfred (GER) / HAASE, Friedrich (GER)
Men's Doubles (70-75 Years) 1. MACH, Georg (SUI) / STEINKÄMPER, Konrad (GER) 2. ARNDT, Erich (GER) / KRÜGER, Klaus (GER) 3. GÄSSLER, Hansjörg (GER) / LANGEHEGERMANN, Valentin (LUX) 3. HOLODA, Julius (SVK) / WESTLING, Hans (SWE)
Men's Doubles (75-79 Years) 1. ECONOMELLIS, Anthony (GRE) / MORRIS, Charles (RSA) 2. MERIMAA, Kai (FIN) / SVENSSON, Nils-Erik (SWE) 3. DONLON, Terry (ENG) / KRAUSS, Guenter (GER) 3. WOOD, Mervyn (ENG) / LOCKWOOD, Fred (ENG)
Men's Doubles (80-84 Years) 1. ENGLMAIER, Johann (GER) / JUNKER, Ernst (GER) 2. RUZHA, Lumir (CZE) / FORSBERG, Rune (SWE) 3. CHROUST, Rudolf (CZE) / HLAVAC, Jan (CZE) 3. MOTULEVICH, Vladislav (RUS) / SCHMID, Adolf (GER)
Men's Doubles (Over 85) 1 .LEVINGE, Hubert (IRL) / D´ARCY, Leslie (ENG) 2. JOING, André (FRA) / CHRISTIAN, Georg (ESP) 3. MOREAU, Antonin (FRA) / D'ARCY, Leslie (ENG) 3. SIITONEN, Oiva (FIN) / HENRIKSSON, Paul (SWE) |
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Stefano Bosi in Zagreb |
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| The president of the European Table Tennis Federation Stefano Bosi, Mayor of the City of Poreč- Edi Štifanić, honorary president of CTTA - Ivo Goran Munivrana, president of the Board of Directors Uniline - Boris Žgomba, as well as the tournament director-Viktor Vetturelli gathered in hotel Aristos on 15 May, 2008 in order to give information to the press regarding the European Veteran Table Tennis Championship 2009 in Poreč. We were informed about the significance of these happenings for Poreč as well as for Croatia in general, and were given a few organizational and technical details. |
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In Hamburg I was with Branka Batinić, present world veteran champion in singles and doubles, whose photo is printed on me. Branka is an outstandig athlete and longs for the best competition she can get, that is why she herself promoted European Veteran Championships in Poreč. Response was great, and many were satisfied that the |
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organizors of the Championships offered arrangements for Poreč at favorouble prices which included night´s accomodiation, shuttle transport from hotel to hall, as well as entry fee. By the way, Torben Wosik became German champion in singles for the second time. As he will be very soon a veteran, the saying that there are no young and old players, but only good and bad ones, is confirmed ones more. From Hamburg I went to Nantes, at the Atlantic coast. There I met Colum Slevin, present European champion in category over 40. Colum is already preparing himself intensly for Rio and Poreč, that is why he was in Nantes after all, wishing to see in action his potential opponents who might play in Poreč, as eg. Yang Min (Italy), Frenchmen Patrick Chila and Damien Eloi, in order to study their game and prepare himself for a successful defense of his title in Poreč. Looking forward to next time! Sincerely yours Rolli |
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Poreč |
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Viktor Vetturelli, director of the Championships, Radivoj Hudetz from the Organizing Committee and Dijana Vetturelli - marketing, briefed Arnd Heymann on the subject, and conducted substantial talks in order to make full success of the European Veteran Championships. |
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Making of „the Logo“ |
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Blue
Istria makes the eastern and Green Istria represents the inland of Istria, the area deep in the green of nature, and surrounded by the ancient of the cities and medieval villages. All these things have influenced the growth of rural tourism, where it is possible to have a quiet vacancy, such as being in one of the farmhouses and discovering the culture, customs, and typical foods of the Istrian inland. There you can visit small cities and medieval villages located on the hilltops. |
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and bad ones, is confirmed ones
more. |
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