VIENTIANE: More than 500 players from 26 clubs in Vientiane and eight provinces on Thursday (Aug 27) took to courts for the start of the 25th Beerlao Badminton Championship, taking place at the Lao-Thai Gymnasium Indoor Stadium in Vientiane from Aug 27-30.
This year’s tournament is a celebratory event with a fun-filled atmosphere as it marks the 25th anniversary of Lao Brewery Co, Ltd.’s support for badminton in Laos.
The Lao Badminton Federation will use the results to give the participating players a formal ranking.
The opening ceremony was attended by Deputy Minister of Education and Sports Kingmano Phommahaxay, other ministry officials, Lao Brewery Company staff, federation officials, and other individuals associated with the sport.
The Secretary General of the Lao Badminton Federation, Dr Xaybandith Rasphone, said this year marks the 25th anniversary of the company's support, which goes beyond mere financial backing—it represents a partnership to "build the future" and elevate the standard of badminton in Laos to the next level in a purposeful and sustainable manner.
Dr Xaybandith said he hoped the partnership between the Lao Badminton Federation and Lao Brewery Co., Ltd. would continue to grow and develop in the future.
This year’s championship comprises 21 events in the U13, 15, 17, 19 and open categories, featuring men’s and women’s singles, men’s and women’s doubles, and mixed doubles.
Throughout this year the Lao Brewery Company is providing sponsorship and other support in the form of cash and products worth 766 million kip.
The funding will be used to support badminton competitions at various provincial venues, with players accumulating points to determine their national ranking. - Vientiane Times/ANN
