Walker eyes first continental squash medal for Bots

THATO KALA
Correspondent | Saturday May 18, 2013 00:00

 

Walker makes his debut in an international tournament for the country after transferring his international allegiance to Botswana from England. Walker represented England for several years in world and European championships. 'It's exciting because I have not represented Botswana in a long time; so it is nice to be on a team with guys I played with at junior tournaments,' Walker told Sport Monitor.

Walker finds himself in the same team with his childhood teammates Conrad Ntshebe and Lekgotla Mosope.He believes the country stands a chance to win medals at the tournament.'I think Botswana goes to the event with very good prospects, we have a strong chance. But South Africa and Zambia will probably be the toughest teams there.'

The All Africa Champs are his first tournament this year after an injury sustained last month sidelined him.He, however, said the back injury had cleared up and he is fully fit.Walker met Botswana National Sport Council (BNSC) and Botswana National Olympic Committee (BNOC) officials this week after landing from his United States of America (US) base. He is happy with the future prospects. 'It appears things are moving in the right direction, the sport council and Olympic committee have been in great contact with us.

Hopefully, bringing results from Namibia will get us more support.' Walker, who played most of his squash in England, is now based in the US. He said: 'It's been very different, it's some sort of culture change because when I was in England it was a bit laid back whereas in America it's a high class sport.'

Walker has set his sights on the World Championships set for France in June. Again, Botswana will participate for the first time and Walker is expected to lead the team. 'This is the biggest event in squash and for Botswana to send a team is more exciting. The All Africa championships are just a build-up to the World Championships,' he said. Ever since making his switch, Walker has won four PSA squash titles for the country.

The 30-year-old is convinced he still has five more years to play and added he was considering returning home afterwards to help with junior development. 'I want to be highly involved with the sport, bringing all the expertise and that should make more of a difference to the youngsters,' he said. Walker was born in Gaborone on September 19, 1982. He reached a career high world ranking of number 12 in September 2009.