Urbana Table Tennis Player Takes Top Honors in Seniors Competition

A year after claiming a silver medal, an Urbana woman has returned to an international competition to claim the top prize in table tennis.

82-year old Phyllis Hughes took the gold medal over the weekend in singles competition at the Huntsman World Senior Games in St. George, Utah. Hughes had quit playing for more than 50 years as she worked as a psychologist and raised a family. But she only started in competitive play three years ago. Hughes says having a supportive husband and network of friends plays a big role. "It's a very, very good feeling to be able to compete at this point," said Hughes. "We have open tennis night here at the home every Thursday night, and usually all men come to play. I usually enjoy playing their game."

Aside from table tennis, the now-retired Hughes stays active as an artist, musician, and gardener. She was the lone Illinois representative at the senior competition in Utah, which concludes this weekend.

(Photo Courtesy of Phyllis Hughes)