Walker thumps four opponents in exhibition tourney

Thato Kala | Monday June 30, 2014 06:59

 

Botswana Squash Racket Association (BSRA) held the exhibition match in honour of the achievements of the 31-year-old star who won the All-Africa Squash Championships title.

Walker took on Tapologo Motshubi and effortlessly dismissed him 2-0 before facing Pako Lionjanga in the second match. He won the two games with identical 11-5 scores.

His next challenger was Sheldon Erasmus from South Africa, who started well but fizzled out as the New York based star raised his game.

This was perhaps Walker’s most intriguing match as his opponent put up a good fight. But the 16-time tour finalist won 11-4. The second game seemed much easier for Walker although scores were kept close in the early stages.

His tactical superiority saw him wrap up the game 11-7 to complete his third straight win in the exhibition tournament. His final game was against Ian Wilson whom he downed him 11-4 in probably the shortest game of the tournament. Walker then won the final game 11-3. After the match, he was presented with his Sportsman of the Year trophy and signed a banner designed in honour of his contribution to the Botswana game. BSRA also gave away mugs with a congratulatory message to Walker. “I knew stuff was going on in the last few years and to be here, to see it and be part of it is breath- taking. I am really excited about some of the ideas that were shared today.” Walker granted the BRSA the green light to run the Alister Walker Junior Open and the association said it would release details of the tournament soon. BSRA president, Tiego Rabasha praised Walker for being a role model to Botswana’s young players.

“If this event has inspired the kids, it has served its purpose. We also wanted to celebrate Alister for the work he continues to do for Botswana squash,” he said. Meanwhile, Walker said it was good to be back on the court. He looks forward to the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland from July 23 to August 3. “Mentally I am ready; the preparation starts now because we are a month away. I will be in the United States with my trainer for 10 days, and then 10 days in England with my coach.”

The African champion carries Botswana’s hopes for a squash medal at the Games.