ITTF Foundation Partners with Parkinson's ZA to Create Lasting Legacy for World Championships Durban 2023

The ITTF Foundation is excited to announce its partnership with Parkinson's ZA to create a lasting legacy for the local community on the occasion of the ITTF World Table Tennis Championships Finals in Durban 2023, marking the first time the African continent has hosted the prestigious event in over 80 years.

Scientific research has demonstrated that regular table tennis practice improves balance, coordination, and flexibility, all of which are critical aspects of Parkinson's disease management. The ITTF Foundation and Parkinson's ZA are proud to be part of this historic occasion to make a positive impact on the local community.

The partnership aims to increase the number of table tennis halls that welcome people with Parkinson's disease and train caregivers to provide a safe and supportive environment for players. The ITTF Foundation will host a workshop in Durban for caregivers of people affected by Parkinson's disease. Participants will also have the opportunity to attend the ITTF World Table Tennis Championships Finals and receive equipment donated by the event organisers.

"Establishing early exercise habits is essential to overall disease management for people with Parkinson's disease. That's why at Parkinson's ZA, we are thrilled to partner with the ITTF Foundation and integrate weekly table tennis active sessions as part of our programme," said Rakesh Harribhai, Founder of Parkinson's ZA.

The partnership also aims to raise awareness across the continent about the benefits of table tennis to the lives of those affected by the disease.

"The World Championships in Durban marks a historic occasion for Africa," said Ramon Ortega Montes, ITTF Foundation Programmes Coordinator. "We are even more excited about our partnership with Parkinson's ZA because we are planting a seed on the African continent that has the potential to grow and benefit more people."

The ITTF Foundation is committed to creating a better future for all and to promoting the health benefits of regular table tennis practice. The sport of table tennis can change lives and drastically improve social, mental, and physical well-being of every player.

As part of this commitment, the ITTF Foundation created the World Table Tennis for Health Festival, which will be held on the island of Crete, Greece, in November. The festival will feature the World Parkinson's Championships, the World Alzheimer's Championships, and other events promoting healthy lifestyles. More information is available here.