World-class badminton comes to Markham

Top badminton players from around the world will compete this summer at the Yonex Canada Open from June 30 to July 5 at the Markham Pan Am Centre.

“The level of competition and play for international players will inspire and entertain fans of all ages,” says Badminton Canada executive director Bryan R. Merrett.

Canada will be strongly represented throughout the tournament, featuring some of the country’s top badminton talent. Among the athletes competing are Victor Lai, Canada’s first-ever World Championship medallist; Michelle Li, a four-time Canada Open champion and a four-time Olympian; and Brian Yang, a two-time Olympian in men’s singles.

Members of the Next Gen team will also be competing. These aspiring players will challenge their skills against emerging international talent. The team includes: Timothy Lock, Joshua Nguyen, Rachel Chan, Chloe Hoang, Eliana Zhang, and Jacueline Cheung. Members of the Senior National team will also be competing.

“The YONEX Canada Open is broadcast globally to over 200 million people, showcasing Canada. The power of the sport globally attracts a diverse population of fans who embrace the speed, power and precision of the sport,” says Merrett.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit yonexcanadaopen.ca.

Photo: Top badminton players from around the world will compete this summer at the Yonex Canada Open from June 30 to July 5 at the Markham Pan Am Centre. (Photo courtesy of Yves Lacroix)

*Story submitted by Christina Manserra.