The 2019 Lagos International Badminton Classics will serve off on July 24, and run through July 27, at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Onikan, Lagos.
According to the Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC), about 34 countries have registered to take part in the tournament, which is expected to feature top badminton teams across the continent.
Speaking to newsmen on Monday, July 22, the Director-General of LSSC, Oluwatoyin Gafar, said that previous editions of the tournament have attracted high-ranking players from within Africa, and the LSSC is hoping to take the games further with the new edition.
Gafar also said the badminton classics will go a long way to help players gain more exposure as well as wide recognition.
The prize money for the competition is $25,000.
“The Lagos International Classics is the highest-ranked Badminton Championship in Africa with the prize money of 25,000 dollars.
“Players from at least 34 countries, including hosts, Nigeria are expected to compete for honours at the five-day championships.
“Lagos State is very ready to host another successful tournament because the knowledge gained from the competition will help the players to understand the game and will also help the officials to do their job better.”
Gafar
The Director of Public Relations, LSSC, Titi Oshodi, said that the Badminton World Federation in partnership with the Nigeria Badminton Federation have organised a two-day course for the umpires before the tournament serves off.
“The Umpires course aimed to update the knowledge of participants will not only improve umpiring at the Badminton Classics but also assist officiating officials who wish to become international umpires.
“The success or otherwise of any tournament to an extent depends on the umpires who are expected to show fair judgment, good management and situation control.”
Oshodi
Source:
Vanguardng
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