Table tennis challenge sees father and son raise thousands for Rainbows

An 11-year-old whose passion for table tennis began on the dining room table during lockdown has raised £3,715 for Rainbows.

Adam Kocsis, of Glen Parva, loves the sport so much he persuaded his dad, Laszlo (56), to join him for a 12 hour table tennis marathon.

The event took place at Knighton Park Table Tennis Club, where Adam and Laszlo are members. To both their surprise, they have almost doubled their target for our hospice.

Adam said: “It was the best day of my life. We can’t believe how much we have raised, we thought we would struggle to get £2,000, so thank you to everyone who has donated. I hope to go along to Rainbows one day to see everyone there.”

Throughout the 12 hour day, the pair were supported by other players from Knighton Park Table Tennis Club, as well as friends.

Adam added: “I got to eat lots of sugar without being told off! Around the nine to 11 hour mark was the hardest and it felt like my arm was going to fall off, but then the last hour was great. I would definitely do it again but I am not sure Dad would.”

Laszlo said: “I am amazed by everyone’s generosity and kindness, we never thought we would raise so much money for Rainbows.”

Gary Farnfield, Rainbows Community Fundraiser, thanked the father and son team, along with the table tennis club, for their continued support. “This looked like it was a really enjoyable event for everyone,” he said. “Our charity relies on our fundraisers and events like this make such a difference to the work we do at Rainbows, in hospital and at home. Thank you so much on behalf of all of our families.”