Badminton begin Commonwealth Games trials

The journey to the Commonwealth Games for Badminton Kenya begin this weekend at the Aga Khan Sports Club with the first of two tournaments that will be followed by two trials used to select the team that will represent the country in Birmingham. 

Kenya had been barred from sending a team to the Games due to a suspension, but National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOC-K) appealed the decision, with the Badminton World Federation (BWF) Council making the decision to allow the country to have a participating team.

The decision was made by the BWF Council on 27 February 2022. The Kenyan players will participate despite the suspension which is still in place.

The journey will include two tournaments and two trials. The first tournament is set for this weekend, on 21 and 22 May. The second tournament will be held on 28 and 29 May. 

Meanwhile, the first trial will be held on 11and 12 June while the second one is scheduled for 25 and 26 June.

"The two tournaments are open to all badminton athletes, with the match referee looking out for great performance, agility, coordination and balance. 

The top eight athletes both men and ladies, will then proceed into the trials where the final team will be selected from," NOC-K's statement on the same reads. 

All Africa Games bronze medallist and third round Commonwealth Games competitor in Glasgow Mercy Mwethya will be the Team Manager.

Meawhile, John Wanyoike, the National team captain, upon learning Kenya had been allowed to participate despite the ban, shared his excitement having never participated in the event before.

“I came in at a time when athletes were going for Glasgow Commonwealth Games. I have tried qualifying twice without going through. I actually once came second while only one slot was available. To get this window and news sounds like a golden opportunity. I have been training hoping to get this chance and I am hoping to head out and qualify to represent the country," said Wanyoike in a past interview.