Hundreds ba le in badminton tournament hosted at Uni of Reading
MORE than 135 teams participated in an equal opportunities open badminton tournament which was hosted at the University of Reading.
The tournament attracted a diverse range of participants, including former England player Ben Muir.
The tournament aims to provide equal opportunities for all players which saw student players studying in the UK from Malaysia, Indonesia and Hong Kong all compete.
Previously held at Rivermead, This year’s event was the fifth edition of the tournament and was the first time that it was held at the University of Reading’s Sports Club.
The event is becoming ever popular within the student community who have the chance to showcase their talents across a variety of different categories including: men’s and ladies singles, mixed doubles, ladies doubles and men’s doubles.
There was also a family event where parents were able to compete alongside their children (aged eight to 13).
The men’s doubles event attracted 64 entries which included Muir, who was previously ranked number four in the country, who partnered alongside badminton scholar from Brunei Darren Chai who is studying at Portsmouth University.
With participants travelling from Portsmouth, Birmingham and London to take part, the youngest player was just 10 and the eldest was 64.
Nandan Sant, who organised the tournament alongside Jai Komagiri and Smitha A, said:
“Our long term vision is to make Reading Open a calendar event which is supported by the local councils to make it a flagship sports event for the town.
“It is an excellent opportunity for people to connect and participate in a fun-filled event.
“Due to the high volume of participants, the tournament runs from 8am to 8pm to ensure we have maximum games.
“Many people within the community participate, contribute and support us to run a packed event seamlessly.
“We take pride when people say they are coming to Reading to participate in our tournament.”