Figeac, France – The Club Badminton Figeacois (CBF) wrapped up its 14th annual Spring Tournament on March 22nd, marking a successful weekend of competition for players of all levels. The tournament, officially sanctioned by the Fédération Française de Badminton (FFBad), drew 119 participants from across southwestern France, including competitors from the Lot, Aveyron, Tarn, Haute-Garonne, Dordogne, and Cantal departments.
The Cosec gymnasium was filled with a positive atmosphere as players battled it out across various disciplines – men’s and women’s singles, men’s and women’s doubles, and mixed doubles – totaling 180 matches over the two-day event. From beginners taking their first steps in the sport to regionally-ranked athletes, the tournament provided a platform for skill development and spirited competition.
Laurent Ferragutti, a federal-level judge and umpire from the Lot department, ensured the smooth running of the tournament. The event’s success was as well a testament to the dedication of the CBF’s volunteers, parents, and members, who contributed to all aspects of organization, from welcoming players and managing the hospitality area to keeping score and setting up the venue.
The CBF community extended the camaraderie beyond the courts, with a group gathering at the Calvaire stadium clubhouse on Saturday evening for a social event. This sense of community is a hallmark of the club, which currently boasts over 100 members, ranging from young players in the Minibad program (ages 6-9) to veterans, according to a recent report from Archysport.
On the competitive side, several Figeac players achieved success, often partnering with athletes from other clubs. Lisa Boissy and Marin Costes (Rodez) emerged victorious in the mixed doubles series 2. Benjamin Soutiras and Mylène Verlaguet (Capdenac) took the title in the mixed doubles series 3, whereas Cédric Meilhan and Alice Loubet secured the win in the mixed doubles series 4. Axelle Detcheverry and Maxime Neuville (Rodez) were finalists in the mixed doubles series 2, Swann Jeanjean and Pauline Delroux (Le Monastère) reached the final in the mixed doubles series 5, and Pierre-Elie Brandli finished as a finalist in the men’s singles series 3.
The tournament represents an important milestone in the CBF’s season. The club continues its regular schedule of training sessions – held on Mondays, Thursdays, and Sundays – alongside ongoing tournament participation and interclub matches. The CBF is also preparing to host a stage of the departmental youth doubles circuit (DH/DD) on April 5th, and a club hiking trip is planned for early June.
The Club Badminton Figeacois, established for 38 seasons, emphasizes both athletic development and a welcoming environment. Co-presidents Michel Fourgous Jimenez and Matthieu Gardou, along with coaches Lisa Boissy, Pauline Chaintron, and Cédric Meilhan, are focused on fostering a positive atmosphere and improving the level of play within the club. The recent resurfacing of the Cosec gymnasium courts has also been a welcome improvement for players, providing a more enjoyable playing surface.
For those interested in learning more about the Club Badminton Figeacois, the club is located at the Cosec gymnasium (avenue Flandre Dunkerque, 46100 Figeac) and can be found online at figeac-badminton.jimdofree.com. The club welcomes recent members of all ages and skill levels.
The CBF’s next confirmed event is the departmental youth doubles circuit on April 5th. Keep an eye on the club’s website for further details and updates on upcoming events.
