October 20, 2021
In July, Badminton Pan Am Confederation organised its official continental AirBadminton launch in Acapulco, Mexico, alongside the XXIX Pan Am Junior Championships U19 2021.
Meant to create partnerships and networks to help the growth and implementation of future AirBadminton projects, and raise the profile of the sport and encourage more people to experience AirBadminton for the first time, it attracted eight participants (four male and four female).
Strategically, AirBadminton allows Badminton Pan Am to fulfil its goal of expanding the number of badminton enthusiasts, by putting a racket in the hands of as many people as possible, without the need for an indoor venue.
Mexican Badminton Federation, through its president, Javier Orozco, made the opening service and coordinated with authorities in Acapulco to host the launch, which was inaugurated by Badminton Pan Am Administration Chair Zarko Cukic.
The event was covered by local media company Noticiero En Vivo, whose note was reproduced on local television in Acapulco and Guerrero.
Highlights included exhibition matches of 3 vs 3 and 2 vs 2 mixed teams and also audience trying out the new outdoor game.
After the continental launch, a single elimination tournament was held involving athletes knocked out of the Pan Am Junior Championships. Good response – with participants from North America, Central America, South America and Carribbean countries – saw placing of two courts.
Feedback from those who took part include: “great experience”, “fun” and “felt good playing outdoors”.
Overall, the AirBadminton launch turned out to be a success and Badminton Pan Am is encouraged the enthusiastic participants will continue playing the sport in their countries, cities and communities.
Badminton Pan Am also plans to continue holding similar AirBadminton events as part of its future international tournaments and assist in the implementation of AirBadminton activities in the region.
