DOROTHY De Low downed her table tennis bat just long enough to celebrate her 103rd birthday recently.
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Mrs De Low, of Hurstville, is the world's oldest competing table tennis player and marked her milestone at a surprise birthday party organised by members of the Kogarah RSL Table Tennis Club.
Mrs De Low plays at the club every Thursday night and was presented with a cake by the club's life member and former president Steve Eggleton on October 3 — two days before her October 5 birthday.
Mrs De Low has travelled the world for many years to compete in World Table Tennis Championships, winning numerous medals.
Her prowess and endurance saw championship organisers create an over-80s category to accommodate her.
Her table tennis playing has gained world recognition. After one tournament she was invited to appear on the David Letterman Show in New York, but she turned down the offer to get home to her garden.
Mrs De Low, who is about to become a great-grandmother for the third time, also likes to play scrabble at Ramsgate Senior Citizens' Centre.
Mrs De Low was born in England and came to Australia with her family when she was two.
"We came here the same year the Titanic went down. We could have been on that ship," she said.
"I wouldn't be here playing table tennis today."
Mrs De Low said she doesn't have any trouble finding a partner.
"The sport has definitely kept me fit," Mrs De Low said.
"I'm still in competition but I don't mind if I come last.
"I'm not ambitious any more. I just play for the enjoyment.
"I break all the rules. I hold onto the table, which I am not supposed to do.
"Everyone is nice. Even the kids show respect."
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