In an unprecedented display of skill and dominance, Stuti Kashap clinched the Caribbean U15 Girls Singles Champion title at this year’s Caribbean Table Tennis Championships recently held in the Dominican Republic.
Representing Antigua and Barbuda, Kashap did not drop a single game throughout the event, securing a perfect 3-0 score against all competitors.
This victory is monumental, as it marks Antigua and Barbuda’s first appearance at the games after a hiatus of over 30 years. It is also the nation’s first-ever title or podium finish at these championships, as well as the first championship title at the games for any territory within the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS).
Additionally, Kashap showcased her versatility by achieving third place in the U15 Mixed Doubles with partner Andy Maqueira of Cuba and replicating this success in the U15 Girls Doubles alongside Shatal Charles of St Lucia.
Charles ‘Chucky’ Bellot, President of the Antigua and Barbuda Table Tennis Association (ABTTA) and Treasurer of the Caribbean Regional Table Tennis Federation (CRTTF), who attended the championships as a delegate and coach, expressed immense pride in Stuti’s performance.
“Stuti’s historic win not only brings glory to our nation but also reinvigorates our commitment to table tennis,” he remarked. “We are hopeful that in the near future, Antigua and Barbuda will be able to field a full contingent in all categories, including Men and Women Seniors, and Boys and Girls U15 and U19 in Teams, Individual and Doubles”
ABTTA also plans to intensify its talent identification drive and expand its categories to include U11 and U13. This initiative aims to foster more sporting opportunities for the nation’s youth and continue bringing sporting glory to Antigua and Barbuda.
The Antigua and Barbuda Table Tennis Association (ABTTA) thanks the Antigua and Barbuda National Olympic Committee (ABNOC) for their support and sponsorship, which was crucial in enabling our participation in this year’s Championships. Their commitment was key to our historic success, and we look forward to continued partnership.
