IT was a badminton tournament in Penang with a difference. While trophies and cash prizes are normally offered to the winners of most championships, the Youth Open badminton championships held in Bandar Baru Air Itam (better known as Farlim) saw part of the profits given to charity.
Bukit Gelugor MP Ramkarpal Singh, who gave away the prizes to the winners at the badminton hall located at the uppermost floor of the multi-storey car park at Medan Angsana in the Farlim Business Centre today, presented a cheque for RM2,000 to Penang Hospice Society on behalf of the organisers.
Another cheque for RM2,000 would be given to a children’s protection society.
The tournament, which was supported by the service centres of Ramkarpal as well as Paya Terubong assemblyman Yeoh Soon Hin, who is also the state Tourism Development, Heritage, Culture and Arts Committee chairman, attracted a total of 400 players ranging from 9 to 17 years old.
It also had Asian flavour as some of the participants came from China, Thailand, Indonesia and Singapore.
The organisation of the tournament was run smoothly by Kam Fook Badminton Academy with the assistance of tournament referee Richard Wong and his team.
“From the entry fees and sponsorship, we are able to give some money to charity,” said Ng Kam Fook, a former national player before he turned to coaching in the 90s.
Another highlight of the tournament was the father-and-son (under-11) event which drew 13 pairs. Coincidentally, Kam Fook, 44, and his son, Weng Joe, 11, emerged as champions.
Ramkarpal was pleased with the response for the competition.
“I’m very happy to be a part of this tournament. Sporting event is something that is close to my heart. It encourages sports for youth … take them away from the streets and inculcate healthy habits among them.
“I’m very happy that this initiative is just round the corner from my service centre. So, we hope to continue supporting such programmes in the future.”
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Chan Kok Kuan