Shuttle star chases Scottish Open glory
MacHugh aims for more special Emirates memories
Patrick MacHugh has fond memories of competing at Glasgow’s Emirates Arena.
Now the Kinross shuttle star is planning to light up the court when he goes for glory at the Scottish Open Grand Prix this month.
Patrick and partner Martin Campbell will be fronting up the Scottish charge in what is set to be a hotly contested men’s doubles tournament.
The 25-year-old can’t wait to return to the Emirates following special previous experiences at the Commonwealth Games and World Championships.
Former Kinross High School pupil Patrick said: “The Emirates Arena has some good memories for us, having played the Commonwealth Games and World Championships there.
“The worlds was another great event and the support was really good for us so we hope for the same.
“And the win against the Dutch pair was great, especially as it gave us the chance to compete against a very strong Russian pair.
“The Emirates is a great hall to play in and I’m sure as things stand it will continue to attract large sporting events, which is superb for sport in Scotland.”
Patrick admits recent form has dipped below expectations but he is hoping that can all change at the Scottish.
He told the Perthshire Advertiser: “I think since the worlds we have had two competitions which haven’t quite gone to plan.
“Just now is quite busy as we had the French super series and then went straight to Switzerland for a club match.
“Then it was Germany for another competition so a lot of travelling currently. After this period we have two weeks of training so it is coming around quickly.
“We are hoping that we can produce a good result as in training things have been going well.
“In past years at the Scottish we have never had the luck of the draw, so to say, but I think with the way things are going we are looking to make some strong in roads in to the competition.
“It always seems to attract a good list of players so for Scotland to host another strong event, I think it’s great.”
The Scottish Open Grand Prix takes place at the Emirates Arena in Glasgow from November 22-26.
Anne Smillie, chief executive of BADMINTONscotland, said: “We are delighted to be hosting such a strong international field in Glasgow for this year’s Scottish Open Grand Prix.
“Following the triumph of the TOTAL BWF World Championships in August, I am confident we will witness even more world-class badminton at the Emirates Arena.
“I know Glasgow will welcome every single player with open arms and we can’t wait for the action to begin.” Patrick MacHugh and partner Martin Campbell