Smashes, rallies and community spirit shine at first Mayor's Badminton Cup

Ninety-four enthusiastic players showcased their badminton talents at Mile End Leisure Centre on Thursday 23 July, as part of the inaugural Mayor’s Badminton Cup tournament.

The first ever Mayor's Badminton Cup featured past paced rallies throughout the day and highlighted both experienced players and rising stars from across the borough.

The open age women’s event was well represented, with 26 participants playing doubles and showcasing their court craft. The winners in two categories were Onyinye Nkemdirim and Phuong Phuong and Farzana Sheikh and Momota Hussain.

The junior (boy’s & girl’s) doubles event was equally exciting, featuring 14 teams in high energy matches.

After much shuttlecock action, Ismail Ahmed and Md Shipar claimed the title. Md Shipar was also named young player of the tournament.

Twenty teams competed for the open age men’s title, highlighting great local talent. After an amazing round of tightly fought matches, Tarek Ahmed & Jahed Ahmed become the first open age men’s champions.

Councillor Minara Khatun, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Culture and Tourism, said:
“We are committed to providing opportunities for people in Tower Hamlets, especially women and girls, to keep active and engage in sports and physical activity.
The first ever Mayor's Badminton Cup has laid the foundations for what we hope will become a flagship annual sporting event, bringing together residents, celebrating local talent and inspiring more people to get involved in badminton. Congratulations to all participants. We look forward to another exciting tournament next year.”