Sport as a tool for cultural diplomacy has already recorded many successes, both at the regional and international level. So hosting the first inaugural Diplomatic tennis tournament at the Pretoria Country Club was deemed to be a success.
Hosted by the Embassy of Chile , H.E. Julio Pedro Fiol welcomed Heads of Missions, distinguished guests and players warmly. The tournament engaged representatives from the embassies of the United States, Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, the European Union, Thailand, the United Nations and Chile.
The tournament was sponsored by Embassy Direct, Pretoria Country Club, BMW, Nedbank, Outsurance and CatVip. It was attended by 23 teams including several Ambassadors, from various embassies, diplomatic missions and international institutions, and CEOs or executives from the private sector.
Kennith Groenewald and Vinayak Mangalmurti emerged victorious as the ultimate winners. The eventful day was concluded with the awards ceremony and reception while listening to music performed by the SAPS band.
by Marion Kate
