Jamaica Badminton Association (JBA) President Vishwanauth Tolan expressed delight at the high level of competition, enthusiastic participation, and support for the just-concluded All-Jamaica Badminton Championships.
Tolan believes the event, which took place at the YMCA at the weekend, showcased the growing strength of badminton in Jamaica.
“We are very pleased with the outcome of the tournament. Our players came out strong and put on some exciting matches, which kept the fans and all in attendance engaged throughout the weekend,” Tolan said.
“The All-Jamaica Championships has really given us a good premise to plan for key activities to be executed in 2025, including training programmes and regional championships,” he added.
The tournament served as a celebration of excellence, not only on the court but also off it.
This, as special awards were reintroduced this year, highlighting the contributions of individuals who have propelled the sport forward.
Honorees included Audley Astwood and Marcia Williams, who have organized the schools’ badminton league competition for over three decades.
Outstanding players were also recognized, including Tahlia Richardson and Joel Angus, who were named Female and Male Players of the Year, respectively.
Meanwhile, rising sensations Amir McBean picked up the Most Outstanding Junior of the Year award, while Justin Dillon was named Most Promising Junior, as both exemplified the sport's bright future.
Other awardees included Neil Lewis (Coach of the Year), Rusty Rust Academy (Club of the Year), and Brianna Burke, who received the President's Award for her exemplary service and ardent commitment as a council member for the past year.
On the court, the competition was fierce, as Tahlia Richardson was a standout performer, claiming the Women’s Open singles title. She also claimed the women’s doubles crown alongside Breanna Bisnott, as well as the mixed doubles with Anthony McNee, capping a stellar tournament.
McNee himself secured the men’s doubles title with Kemar Valentine.
In the Men’s Open final, Joel Angus displayed resilience to edge out Craig Allison to claim the coveted crown.
The Rising Shuttler category, introduced to spotlight emerging talent, saw Brianna Burke and Samuel Smith take top honours.