University of Johannesburg squash stars Elani and Lumé Landman will represent South Africa in a weeklong exhibition tournament at the Indian Ocean Island Games in Réunion from August 1.
This is the first time South Africa has been invited to participate in the event, which takes place every four years.
The Landman sisters, who are identical twins, were chosen to represent their country on the basis of their outstanding performances at various national and international tournaments.
Earlier this month, they were part of the team that claimed the fourth consecutive gold medal for UJ at the University Sport South Africa tournament.
Elder sister Elani said it was a very emotional win for them, particularly as it was their last outing for their institution.
“We knew Tukkies were our strongest competition and we had to bring everything to the table as it was the last time we were able to do it for UJ,” she said.
Both Elani and Lumé are in their final year of study for a Bachelor of Education degree.
Originally from Port Elizabeth, the sisters now turn out for the Central Gauteng senior women’s A-team.
At the recent Jarvis and Kaplan Cup interprovincial tournament in Potchefstroom, they saw off Western Province in the final to secure the national champions’ title.
Despite their identical appearance, the 21-year-old students each have their own playing style. Elani is a three-time national U19 champion, while Lumé previously held the honours in the U16 age group.
“We know each other’s game and emotions very well. It is also very important to support each other on and off the court and give advice when needed,” said Elani.
“When we have to play against each other, we remove all emotion from the game and just concentrate on playing the best we can regardless of the outcome,” she added.
The pair are no strangers to international competition and are busy honing their fitness and skills under the guidance of coach Mike Bester ahead of the games.
“Our strategy is to stay sharp and work on the small things on the court before we leave,” said Elani.
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