WELCOMING REMARKS BY PREMIER
The other day I overheard two tennis players discussing about
the game.
“I am getting disillusioned about tennis. I always dreamed I'd be playing
Wimbledon by now.
“Travelling round the world on the ATP Tour and everything” the one said.
“You know, your trouble is you aim too high. What you need is some realistic
short-term goals,” came the answer.
“Really? Like what?
“Well, try getting to the baseline without tripping over your shoelaces!”
Mr. Gordon Forbes and your executive
Distinguished guests
Ladies and Gentlemen,
We are honoured to welcome you to our Province, the “Place of the Rising Sun”.
A very warm welcome to our own tennis players. And to our friends from Yugoslavia: "Dobrodosli u Mpumalanga. "
Some of us have met in the past, but today we meet in a different setting - as sportspeople and as sportslovers.
Our thanks are due to the organisers of this tournament and they can be as confident as we are that Mpumalanga will fully utilise the opportunity created in this way.
To Wayne and the team you lead, as young men and women you are role models for our youth, black and white. You have, in your own way, contributed to the reconciliation processes so necessary in the building of a nation.
We are very proud of you.
As you go into the game against Yugoslavia, remember that all the people of the province and the country – black and white – are united behind you.
As government, on whose behalf I speak here today, we will be present to spur you on. We wish all of you all the success. But remember, even if you don't win – which is very unlikely - the essence of the games is to enjoy.
So go out there and enjoy yourself.
As thy say: SRESHNO.
On my way here I asked a very good friend of mine: “What are South Africa's chances in the tournament? Don't sit on the fence like you usually do. What do you think?” I prompted.
“I don't sit on the fence”, came the reply. “All right. What are our chances then? I asked .“Fifty-fifty!”
I thank you.