Badminton. Young international talents in Saint-Louis all weekend

They are between 16 and 19 years old but their level of play is already impressive. Some are also among the best badminton players in their country in their age category. They are preparing to do battle all weekend at the Sportenum in Saint-Louis, during the Yonex 3Borders U19 international badminton tournament open to cadets and juniors and organized by the local V3F club. The competition is on the calendar of the international badminton federation and on the European circuit. Participants therefore have the opportunity to score valuable points to climb the world rankings.

An African delegation for the first time

For three days, 159 players are expected in the different tables: women’s and men’s singles, women’s and men’s doubles and mixed doubles. A total of 18 countries will be represented, including several Asian teams (Thailand, Chinese Taipei, United Arab Emirates) and, for the very first time, an African delegation from Equatorial Guinea. “This is the first time that we have welcomed players from so many countries”, rejoices Thierry Stempfel, the president of the V3F, who specifies that the most numerous will be the Germans, ahead of the Swiss… and the French, who only come in third place in terms of the number of registrants.

“They will be a little less numerous than usual because many have decided to skip before the French youth championships, which will take place in Mulhouse the following weekend”, regrets the president of the border club. Too bad, because this tournament, where the competition is fierce and above all unique, could have been a good preparation for these national championships, which will take place a few kilometers away a week later… “It is, by far, the competition of best badminton in the area”, emphasizes Thierry Stempfel.

Four local players in the running

But the smaller presence of French representatives has at least a positive effect since it has freed up places for the players who follow in the standings and in particular some Alsatians. The regional clubs will thus have a few players engaged in the Yonex 3Borders U19 and in particular the two clubs in the border sector: the V3F with Iliana Gilbert and Leelou Oswald and the ASLB Kembs , who can count on Elisa Hess and Léana Laurent. A great opportunity to shine at home, even if they know that it will take a very good day to reach the finals.

GO Yonex 3Borders U19 international badminton tournament, Friday May 12 and Saturday May 13 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday May 14 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (finals from 12:30 p.m.), at the Sportenum in Saint-Louis. Price: €5 to €10 depending on the day, free for children under 15. Snack bar and snacks on site.