All Africa Individuals

Walker takes men’s title for Botswana

Botswana claimed a historic first title success in an international squash event when Alister Walker beat Zambian Kelvin Ndhlovu in the Men’s Individual final of the All Africa Championships at the Wanderers Club in the Namibia capital Windhoek.

New York-based Walker, the world No14, was representing the country of his birth for the first time as a senior – and had earlier led Botswana to fourth place in the team championships.

“Coming to Windhoek to play the All Africa Championships was a real pleasure,” said 30-year-old Walker after his straight games title triumph over third seed Ndhlovu. “It has been over 15 years since I left Botswana to pursue a professional squash career. To come back and win the title for Botswana was an absolute dream!

“Unfortunately we did not medal in the team event – just missing out with fourth – but we are bullish about winning a medal in the coming years.

“I’d like to take the opportunity to thank TK Rabasha, the President of Botswana Squash Rackets Association, and his committee, for the hard work and energy they have out into squash over the last few months. Long may it continue!

“Finally I’d like to thank my mother and father for all their backing over the last 20 years I have played squash. Without them I’d never have achieved any of what I have this far.”