Tournament Committee

24 Countries

I was truly fascinated and pleasantly surprised when I was told that players from some 30 countries may make the trip to Manama for the Bahrain International Challenge. Even to have half that number arrive at the Keraleeya Samajam Diamond Jubilee Hall for the tournament, would be a great achievement for the organizers when it is considered that this is only an International Challenge with US15,000 offered as prize money. Probably there must be something really exciting and interesting to attract players to this part of the world where badminton is more likely viewed as a social pastime than a serious sport. But whatever the reasons for players like Charmaine Reid, Nicole Grether, Sho Sasaki, Tommy Sugiarto and Sanave Thomas to have graced the event through the years, speak well of a tournament that is highly valued and well organized. For this I must extend my congratulations to Mr. Ashley George and the Council of the Bahrain Badminton & Squash Federation. Your deep desire to ensure that the sport takes a strong footing in your country is best amplified in the close relationship you enjoy with the Indian Badminton Club in Bahrain and Badminton Association of India. I believe both parties have been contributory in making this annual event a success with their experience, technical assistance and financial support. I take this opportunity to extend the warm wishes of the Council of Badminton Asia Confederation to the players, officials and organizers to this International Challenge.

Katsuto Momii, President, Badminton Asia Confederation