Bongani Siqoko
There was a time when all the Letlake twins knew about squash was that it was a flavoured drink mixed with water. Now they have become national stars in the game.
James and Jonathan Letlake, from Chiawelo in Soweto, have been playing for more than 10 years, winning many trophies and medals. They have played in Zimbabwe, Zambia, Tanzania and Botswana.
Jonathan Letlake was the first to play the sport, and he introduced it to his twin. Now his brother is the best player in the country.
The highlight of the twins’ careers was when James Letlake was ranked among the top three players in the country and selected for the United States Schools Team in the All Africa Games in Zambia in 1996.
Last year was “James Letlake’s year”, says Liz Addison, development and coaching co- ordinator for Squash South Africa.
His best moment was when he and his brother competed in the final of the Transvaal under-19 championship, which he won. He finished second and his twin third in the United Schools Sport Association of South Africa under-19 competition, which was won by Gauteng.
James Letlake has now graduated to the under-23 side and he represented South Africa in Dar es Salaam in December.
Addison has high praise for the twins: “They have earned that place. They are good players and will go far in this game.”