Table Tennis Star Simon Heaps Makes History with Triple Medal Win
Table tennis star Simon Heaps made history by winning three medals at an international para tournament for the first time. Competing in the Jordan Para Open in Amman, Heaps secured a silver medal in the Men’s Singles event and bronze medals in both the Men’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles competitions.
Impressive Performance at Jordan Para Open
In the Class 4-5 category, Heaps dominated his singles group matches:
- He won both matches 3-0 against Meiirbek Otepov of Kazakhstan and Ibrahim Sabra of Jordan.
- Continued his impressive run by defeating Trivendra Singh of India 3-1 (11-2, 11-9, 7-11, 11-6) in the semi-finals.
- Clinched the silver medal by beating Muntadher Al Sarraji of Iraq 3-0 (11-9, 11-7, 11-7) in the final.
Doubles Events Success
- Heaps partnered with Awadh Alharbi of Kuwait in the Men’s Doubles, finishing in third place after winning two matches and losing two.
- Teamed up with Alexandra Stepanova of Kazakhstan to claim a bronze medal in the Mixed Doubles, mirroring their record in the Men’s Doubles.
Heaps, a 68-year-old player who lost both his legs in the last five years, expressed his delight and pride in this historic achievement, stating, “I’m very pleased and proud to have won three medals for the first time in an international para tournament, and very grateful to both my partners.”
“I’m very pleased and proud to have won three medals for the first time in an international para tournament, and very grateful to both my partners.” – Simon Heaps
Acknowledgements and Gratitude
Heaps acknowledged the crucial support from his coach, Matt Ware, as well as his wife, Pauline, and daughter, Charlotte, whose love and support have been instrumental in his success. He also extended his gratitude to the sponsoring companies:
- MACRON
- WMS Underfloor Heating
- MSC Cruises
- Will Stone Gas Plumbing & Heating
- Everton Hyundai
- The Douglas Bader Foundation
- #Dream it, Believe it, Achieve it
Inspiring the Table Tennis Community
Simon Heaps’ remarkable performance not only showcases his exceptional skills and determination but also serves as an inspiration to the entire table tennis community.
🔗 Source
