Three Goan badminton pairs have qualified to represent India at the Badminton Asia Senior Championships 2026 in Gwangju, South Korea, following national-level qualification benchmarks.
Parag Chauhan and Kamlesh Kanji, Dr. Sandeep Fowker and Kapil Kanji, and Tanaji Sawant and Pradeep Dhond secured their spots for the international tournament, which runs from November 16 to 22, 2026.
The qualification matches took place at the Yonex Sunrise 48th Indian Masters Veteran National Badminton Championships 2025-26 held in Goa in March. Dr. Fowker and Kapil Kanji, alongside Sawant and Pradeep Dhond, reached the quarter-finals to clear the minimum qualification criteria. Chauhan and Kamlesh Kanji advanced further by claiming a bronze medal in their category.
The three pairs will compete in doubles events across the 45+, 50+, and 70+ age categories in South Korea. Goa Badminton Association officials highlighted the broader competitive involvement of these Masters players.
“What is particularly commendable is that many of these Masters players also participate in Senior Men and Women tournaments, where they compete against much younger players and at times take the fight up to them. Their enthusiasm and competitive spirit are truly inspiring,” said Praveen Shenoy, Secretary of the Goa Badminton Association.
Association President Manoj Patil emphasized the lifestyle benefits demonstrated by the athletes’ sustained competitive longevity.
“Fitness is essential for both physical and mental well-being, and these players are excellent examples of how sport can remain an integral part of our lives at any age,” Patil said. “Their dedication to maintaining fitness and continuing to compete at a high level is something that others, irrespective of age, should emulate. We wish all three pairs the very best for the Asian Championships.”
The Badminton Asia Senior Championships 2026 are scheduled to take place from November 16 to 22, 2026, at Gwangju, South Korea, where the Indian contingent will feature the three Goan doubles pairs in their respective age divisions.
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