Ian will not forgive me for publicising this next bit of news..... it was announced that he was a finalist for the TTE Pride of Table Tennis awards at the Newbury Tournament, but on Saturday the winners were announced...….
The Table Tennis England Pride of Table Tennis Awards 2024
Contribution to Table Tennis category
WINNER......our very own IAN WU !!
Ian went to Nottingham on Saturday to be presented with the award at a very prestigious gathering of TT dignitaries at the National Championships.
He was nominated because without him, none of us would benefit from the brilliant Jubilee Centre venue in Kintbury, which many feel is one of the best table tennis venues in Berkshire, & surrounding areas, & apart from being the home venue for 5 teams in the Newbury League, & the Newbury Tournament, it is now being used for high level competitions (including the Wilmott Cup) & County matches.
The amount of administrative work Ian does is massive, all behind the scenes, & the award also reflects his generosity in setting up the club initially, & often funding ongoing costs without even telling anyone.
Coaching anyone who asks, & lending us his robot, always there first to put up tables - just a few of the other reasons he was nominated.....good man!
Great philosophy too - everyone is welcome, & it is a first class venue now for aspiring players & high level players alike.
CONGRATULATIONS IAN, well deserved !!
Message from Ian: I greatly appreciate the nomination from Ian Langley and Jenny Tanner, though they both blame each other. We have a great club at Kintbury because of everyone who takes part and supports the activities, so part of the recognition should go to you all. For me the real reward happens every Thursday when I see a thriving table tennis club and lots of players enjoying a wonderful sport. Thanks all.