Over 168 players from 26 countries are taking in the four-day tournament at the National Badminton Centre, Lisburn, where they will battle to gain ranking points to improve their world positions.
Speaking at the event, Minister Poots said: “I am pleased to be here at the official opening of the International Badminton Championships and particularly pleased to welcome the array of international visitors who have come to our region. I wish them all the very best in the competition ahead.
“Northern Ireland is fast becoming a serious contender for hosting international sporting events and what a wonderful venue to help showcase what we have to offer. The standard at the National Badminton Centre is extremely high and is an excellent example of what can be achieved for the benefit of the entire community.
The Minister continued: “In October I launched the draft Sports Strategy for Northern Ireland. This is a very important consultation as it sets out the vision for sport over the next 10 years. Sport affects us all and I would encourage you all to consider how you would like to see sport developed throughout the region in the lead up to London 2012.”
Notes to Editors
- The event consists of the five disciplines; Men’s Singles, Women’s Singles, Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles. Play starts on Thursday 6th December with the Qualifying Rounds and concludes with the showpiece of the tournament on Sunday 9th December with the finals and prize-giving.
Over 20% of the players competing in the event are in the top 100 in the World Ranking system and many are highly ranked in Europe. - All media enquiries to DCAL Press Office on 028 9025 8901 or email: press.office@dcalni.gov.uk or after hours duty press officer pager number 07699 715440.
