Badminton Scotland Supports Inaugural Qeltic Games LGBTIQ+ Multi-Sport Event
On Saturday 31st August, we gathered in Perth to support the inaugural Qeltic Games event, organised by LEAP Sports Scotland.
The Qeltic Games is a grassroots multi-sport event bringing together LGBTIQ+ sports teams, athletes and allies from across the UK and Ireland. There is no other event like this in the UK, and as such, presented a unique opportunity for Badminton Scotland to be involved in it’s inception and create a lasting legacy for future editions, building a commitment towards LGBTIQ+ inclusion in Scottish badminton.
Frazer Robertson (Glenearn Badminton Club President & Equality Advisory Group Member) said:
“We’re really delighted to have Badminton Scotland on board, and proud to be flying the flag for Glenearn Badminton Club. If it wasn’t for volunteers like Ross Paterson and others, we wouldn’t be able to deliver this tournament. It’s about showcasing LGBTIQ+ inclusion in sport, and creating positive role models. You don’t have to be the best, you can just come along and take part.”
With 40 players taking part, it was an exciting day of badminton with some fierce competition. There were two group stages, followed by two semi-finals and a final. Despite there being some experienced players involved, the event accommodated people of all playing abilities, and everyone got a lot of game time.
Lyndsey (Edinburgh Racqueteers LGBTIQ+ Badminton Club) commented:
“It’s nice to see people we know from other clubs, but also meet new people. We’ve never experienced the Euro Games or anything similar before, so this is a small taster of what that probably looks like. Events like these are necessary to bring visibility to LGBTIQ+ inclusion in sport and to meet likeminded folk.”
Congratulations to all involved, especially those who finished in medal positions!
1st place/ Gold: Cameron Orchard & Jordan Ritchie
2nd place/ Silver: Steven Duncan & Lewis Hann
3rd place/ Bronze (2 pairs): Gary Brabender & Tyler Williams/ Amitabh Bhattacharjee & Eko Sijabat
