European Championship in Table Tennis for Veterans, held from June 16 to June 22 in Novi Sad, was more than just a sporting event for the 3,000 participants from 44 countries. It was a festival of friendship, experience, and competitive spirit, showcasing the timeless passion, dedication, and love for the sport among veterans.
The event featured competitions in 11 age categories, ranging from 40 to over 90 years old. The emphasis was clearly on camaraderie among former professionals as well as a large number of amateurs and recreational players who are fully devoted to ping pong. Participants engaged in exchanges of experiences, reminiscing about past duels, competitions, and tournaments.
This major table tennis gathering also attracted around 5,000 visitors, which is a significant figure for the Tourist Organization of Novi Sad. The Serbian representation included 90 veterans who achieved remarkable results. They brought home five medals from the European Championship for veterans: three gold and two bronze.
Among the highlights was Stanisava Dimanić, a table tennis player from Novi Sad, who secured individual gold in the 50+ category. In a decisive final match, she triumphed over her old rival, Russian player Čunikina, with a score of 3:1. Similarly, Aleksandar Karakašević and Dragutin Dado Šurbek from Croatia won gold in the 45+ category after a thrilling encounter against Polish player Kolodziječik and Austria’s Al Samhuri.
Gold medals were also awarded to Petar Đorđević and Oleg Basarić, who defeated German players Gesler and Henman in the 55+ category with a score of 3:1. Zvonimir Britka and Šandor Janković represented Serbia on the winners’ podium in the 60+ and 65+ categories, respectively. Both fought valiantly for the finals; however, they faced formidable opponents who ultimately claimed victory. Britka lost to Danish player Egeholt after five closely contested sets, while Janković was bested in three sets by Roldugin from Russia.
Slobodan „Boba“ Grujić, a 51-year-old table tennis star from Novi Sad now residing in Germany, was one of the event’s promoters. Although he did not compete due to concerns about a previous knee injury, he spent his days observing matches and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere at the venue, which hosted 150 tables. Grujić highlighted the importance of such gatherings for rekindling old rivalries and maintaining friendships among players, both amateur and professional.
Zoran Kalinić, a former Serbian and Yugoslav table tennis representative and a holder of numerous medals from European and World Championships, also participated in the event. He mingled with former rivals and provided support to some of the competitors, sharing his expertise. Kalinić expressed his admiration for the event’s organization, noting that it showcased a serious level of coordination, especially considering that the entire European veterans’ table tennis community had gathered in Novi Sad. He emphasized that the camaraderie and social interactions were the essence of such events.
The German Association of Recreational Table Tennis Players, which boasts over 2,000 members, sent 400 competitors to Novi Sad, making them the largest group present. The organizers noted their satisfaction with the event and the accompanying activities, which included trips to Fruška Gora, visits to the Petrovaradin Fortress, and tours of Novi Sad’s cultural and historical landmarks, as well as art workshops and demonstrations of traditional crafts.
Overall, the European Championship in Table Tennis for Veterans not only highlighted the competitive spirit of the participants but also reinforced the values of friendship and community inherent in sports. The event served as a reminder that age does not diminish passion or skill, and that the love for the game can unite people across generations and nationalities. This gathering in Novi Sad was a celebration of life, sport, and enduring connections among players, making it a memorable experience for all involved.
