2023 Northumberland Masters Silver: Round Up

By Laura Muir

Northumberland Badminton Association hosted their annual Masters Tournament from 3-5 November 2023 at their purpose-built venue, Tyneside Badminton Centre, in the west of Newcastle.

Preceding the main tournament was an international match for most age groups 35+, with players either representing English Counties or Ireland Select.

A number of Scottish players were recruited to fill both teams in the spirit of just trying to give players as many games as possible.

Matches started at 12 noon and a buffet lunch was put on for the players keeping them fed and watered all afternoon for their doubles and mixed games. It was English Counties that prevailed with a scoreline of 67-33.

Players were mini-bussed to the venue from the official hotel on a frequent basis.  The atmosphere was very relaxed and 2 social evenings were organised at a local restaurant.

Beautiful hand-painted plates were used as an alternative to traditional trophies. Each player in the international match received a wristband and a coaster as a souvenir.

Friday around 7pm saw the start of the singles tournament with most age groups from 35+ to 75+.

Many matches went to 3 sets and some of the finals finished around 1am.  There were staggered starts for the level doubles on Saturday, which again saw entries from most age groups.

Play finished at a respectable time allowing players to socialise with others.  The tournament concluded on Sunday with the mixed doubles matches.

Badminton England has now confirmed the Northumberland Masters tournament 2024 for Friday 1 November to Sunday 3 November 2024.

Medal Summary:

• WS O35 Laura Muir – silver
• MS O45 Mark Mackay – gold
• MS O50 Craig Lamb – gold
• MS O60 Ross Gladwin – bronze
• WD O35 Laura Muir – silver
• MD O40 John Durrand – silver
• MD 045 Mark Mackay and Craig Lamb – silver
• MD 060 Ross Gladwin – silver
• XD O50 Danny Smith and Myrna Crooks – silver
• XD 050 Frazer McCulloch – bronze
• XD O60 Ross Gladwin – bronze

Find out more

• Scottish Badminton Masters Group
• Matches – 2023 Northumberland Masters Silver
• 2023 Northumberland Masters Silver – Winners