Cornwall Badminton new season feature, 2018/19

The new badminton season is about to begin for the world’s second most popular sport after football – over 975,000 adults play badminton every week in the UK, taking part in the sociable, healthy activity. Badminton is the fastest racket sport where shuttles can reach speeds of over 200mph at the top levels, although it can also be enjoyed at a slower pace.

In Cornwall, there are ten league clubs offering social and competitive badminton in two leagues across the county, many with junior sections, and there are also several social clubs, as well as all the casual play in sports and leisure centres.

Cornwall Badminton Association oversees the competitive and league play, and runs several tournaments for all players throughout the season – all details can be found on their website www.cornwallbadminton.co.uk

The new County Chairman is Bob Bell, from Callington, an England senior international and 2015 world masters champion at men’s doubles. Bob, who plays in Cornwall’s veteran teams, says – “there are many opportunities to take part in our fantastic sport in Cornwall, we welcome people to our clubs and tournaments and encourage you to join us”.

Bob Bell, Chairman and World Champion

Apart from an active, thriving Cornwall Youth Badminton organisation, the county has three senior teams who completed a very successful season last year, with two teams winning promotion in Badminton England’s regional senior county championships against teams from across the south and west, and all the players look forward to the new challenges this season.

Cornwall’s 1st team win promotion

Not to be outdone, there are also two veteran teams of over 50 and over 65 competing against other south west counties from September to March, and battling through an enjoyable weekend of inter-county play in January, held usually in Bournemouth.

Over 50s in action

The season kicks off with the prestigious Duchy Tournament on September 22nd and 23rd at the Sir Ben Ainslie Sports Centre in Truro – this event attracts top players from all over the country for a weekend of quality, exciting play. The following weekend at St Austell Leisure Centre is the Senior County Championships to find the latest champions – always a keenly fought, much anticipated tournament – again, spectators are very welcome.

During the season there are also events for all social and league players, such as the well-established Bonanza series, the Newquay mixed doubles tournament and the newer Kernow Team Cup – keep an eye on the website for up to date details, there is something for everyone!

The Kernow Cup final 2018