Navy commander takes gold at SANDF table tennis champs

IT MUST be in the genes.

Just like World tennis champions Venus and Serena Williams, Cape Town sisters Monique and Genevieve Lentz are recognised both internationally and nationally for table tennis.

Not only are they successful in sports, but also in their careers.

Monique is a commander in the SA Navy and plays table tennis for the SANDF.

This month, she made waves when she competed at the SANDF National Championships in Bloemfontein and walked off with a gold medal for the Women’s Singles and the Women’s Team Silver Medallist, Women’s Doubles Silver Medallist and Mixed Doubles Bronze Medallist.

The 36-year-old was selected by the SANDF to compete in the SA National Senior Table Tennis Championships which will take place in Durban this month.

Brigadier General Andries Mahapa said Monique had been playing table tennis since she was a little girl and joined the SANDF team12 years ago.

Genevieve was the first African woman to be deputy referee at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics for table tennis.

The event was held last year due to the global pandemic.

She is a lecturer, public relations officer and the technical convenor at Cape Town Table Tennis.

Genevieve is no stranger to international games and was once selected to umpire at the First Youth Olympics including the world Table Tennis Championships.

Genevieve said she hoped her experience could inspire other women.

“Be the best version of yourself in everything you do, whether it be work, sport, socially or your personal life, living your dreams and making your goals a reality is the essence of life.

“Never give up, irrespective of the outcome, your potential will in due time be recognised and appreciated.”

Genevieve said the seed had been sown by their mother, who helped shape them into the professional, dedicated women they are today.

“As a family we are extremely proud of Monique’s achievements, especially since the sport of table tennis is in our genes,” she added.

“I hope many women, especially women in the SANDF, will draw inspiration from her success by getting involved in sports.

“I think it’s a feather in my mom’s hat. Her dedication and devotion to raising my siblings and I shaped the successes we enjoy today.”