Amersfoort, Netherlands – The Juliana van Stolberghal played host to the culmination of the 2026 Dutch Senior Badminton Championships this past weekend, with Sunday’s action focused entirely on the doubles disciplines. Several new champions were crowned, adding to the titles awarded on Saturday in the singles and mixed doubles events. The tournament showcased a high level of competition among veteran players from across the Netherlands.
The men’s doubles events saw victories for several different age groups. Dennis Steenland and Tim Vaessen emerged victorious in the MD 40+/45+ category, capping off a successful tournament for Vaessen with an additional title. The MD 55+ title went to brothers Edwin and Jeroen van Dalm, while Ron Michels and Marcel Rietberg proved strongest in the MD 60+ division.
On the women’s side, Ilja Bakker and Xandra Stelling claimed the VD 40+/45+ title. In the more experienced 55+/60+/65+ category, Petra Landmeter and Ineke Lotgering secured gold, defeating last year’s champions, Sandra Kroon and Jeannette van der Werff, in a hard-fought final.
Men’s Doubles Results – March 29, 2026
| Category | Champions (Gold) | Runners-up (Silver) |
|---|---|---|
| MD 35+ | Nick Smaling / Dennis van Bekkum | Ronald Dekker / Kevin Krips |
| MD 40+/45+ | Dennis Steenland / Tim Vaessen | Stephan van Houtem / Roy Rouwhorst |
| MD 50+ | Gerben Bruijstens / Stan de Lange | Max Lie / Stephen Tjoa |
| MD 55+ | Edwin van Dalm / Jeroen van Dalm | René Kaandorp / Erwin van der Sluis |
| MD 60+ | Ron Michels / Marcel Rietberg | Mike van Daal / Philip Oei |
| MD 65+/70+/75+ | Ton Linders / Jan Molenkamp | Paul de Laak / Arthur van Riel |
Women’s Doubles Results – March 29, 2026
| Category | Champions (Gold) | Runners-up (Silver) |
|---|---|---|
| VD 35+ | Sandra van Rooijen / Kim Willemsen | Esther Kuilman / Mandy Lenderink |
| VD 40+/45+ | Ilja Bakker / Xandra Stelling | Bianca Bergmans / Simone Snel |
| VD 55+/60+/65+ | Petra Landmeter / Ineke Lotgering | Sandra Kroon / Jeannette van der Werff |
The Dutch Veteran Badminton Championships, held annually, continue to be a popular event for players of all skill levels. The Juliana van Stolberghal in Amersfoort provided an excellent venue for the competition, and the event was considered a success by organizers and participants alike. The tournament’s focus on age-group categories allows for competitive matches and celebrates the enduring passion for badminton among veteran athletes.
Notably, Tim Vaessen’s performance throughout the tournament has been particularly strong, securing multiple titles and demonstrating consistent skill. The victory for Petra Landmeter and Ineke Lotgering in the VD 55+/60+/65+ category was also a highlight, as they overcame the defending champions to claim the gold medal.
The championships represent a significant event in the Dutch badminton calendar, fostering camaraderie and competition within the veteran player community. The event’s success underscores the growing popularity of badminton as a lifelong sport.
Looking ahead, badminton enthusiasts in the Netherlands will be following the progress of these athletes as they prepare for future competitions. The Dutch Badminton Federation continues to support and promote the sport at all levels, ensuring its continued growth and accessibility.
What did you think of the results? Share your thoughts in the comments below!