MACKAY’S Emma Widdup came within points of realizing a dream in the Mackay Open table tennis championships on the weekend.
However it wasn’t to be as she narrowly lost the women’s open final to Townsville’s Paralympics representative Andrea McDonnell, who has won numerous regional, state and national titles.
“She’s a true champion,” Widdup said.
“Since I first played in 1987 it’s been my dream that perhaps one day I might beat Andrea McDonnell. I tried to bring my best game to the final.
“She’s amazing, she had a seven-game semi before our game, had a little rest and was back at it again.
“I’m 47, she’s in her sixties – I’d love to be at that level when I’m 60.”
McDonnell had a tough road to the final, fighting out a tough seven-game semi-final against Rockhampton’s Ann Louise Stewart in which she prevailed -12, -9, 9, -11, 13, 5, 9.
Widdup said her father Michael brought her and her sister Patricia and brother Ben to Mackay in 1987 because he had heard of its table tennis program under then-coach Mr Chen.
“This hall is magnificent for table tennis, it’s just got such a vibe about it,” she said.
“Table tennis offers so many opportunities in terms of fitness and health no matter what your age is. It’s a sport for all age groups.”
Townsville players Timothy Young and Brendan Gaeta fought out the men’s open final, Young taking out his first regional title with a five-game win.
Young earlier had to withstand a tough challenge from Townsville veteran Morrie Bligh in a six-game semi.
By Charlie Payne
Emma Widdup serves in the Mackay Open women’s table tennis final against Townsville’s Andrea McDonnell. Photos: Charlie Payne
Mackay Open men’s table tennis champion Timothy Young hits through the ball
