Scottish Athletes Shine at UK Para Badminton Championships
Written by Sofia Mazzoni
Last weekend, five members of the Scottish Para Badminton Squad, Andrew Davies and Owen Carmichael (SH6), Colin Leslie and Logan Welsh (SL3), and Sofia Mazzoni (SL4), competed in the annual UK Para Badminton Championship in Sheffield. Accompanied by coaches Kirsty and Bruce Flockhart, the team tested their mettle in the group stages, ultimately coming away with six medals across their respective categories.
Sofia Mazzoni came away with three medals: a Gold in the SL3-SU5 Women’s Doubles alongside England’s Emma Stoner, a Silver in the SL4 Women’s Singles, and a Silver in the Mixed Doubles, paired with Colin Leslie in a tough final against the top-seeded pair.
Sofia remarked: “This was my second UK Championship, and I am proud to have improved upon my achievements from last year. This year, we were accompanied by coaches, which I felt made a huge difference, and I really appreciated the support from both Kirsty and Bruce. Now I have a lot to focus on and work towards as I prepare for my next international competition in Egypt in January”.
Colin Leslie ended the Championship with two medals, a Silver in the SL3-SU5 Mixed Doubles and a Gold in the SL3-SL4 Men’s Doubles, paired with long-time partner and friend Antony Forster from England. Colin also competed in the SL3 Men’s Singles and stepped up into the SU5 Men’s Doubles, making for a very busy weekend and some excellent matches.
In the SH6 Men’s Singles Quarter Final, Owen Carmichael put up a tough fight as he faced teammate Andrew Davies. It was Davies who advanced and, after a dramatic Semi Final against Paralympic medallist Jack Shephard, secured the bronze medal.
Andrew Davies said, “The UK champs was a great weekend, it was good to play against up and coming players, but also Jack and Krysten and test myself against them. It was helpful having Kirsty and Bruce there to help with my on court performance”.
Both Scottish players then faced each other again in the SH6 Men’s Doubles, but were outmatched by Jack Shephard, who brought extensive tactical knowledge and experience.
Owen said: “The UK champs was a brilliant and great opportunity for some of the younger athletes to gain new experience. Having the likes of Krysten and Jack to play against, I felt was very inspiring. Getting to watch and play against players of their skill and calibre, set a new challenge that as an athlete which I don’t usually face. My game was enhanced by having coaches Bruce and Kirsty there behind us on court, offering their support during tough games.”
Logan Welsh delivered strong performances in both the SL3 Men’s Singles and the SL3–SL4 Men’s Doubles. Logan was successful in getting to the Quarter Finals in SL3 Singles, and he demonstrated significant determination and grit throughout the competition.
Despite the challenges and fierce competition, the squad showed exceptional progress, professionalism, and team spirit throughout the weekend. Their performances in Sheffield highlight the continued growth of Para Badminton in Scotland and set a strong foundation for an exciting year ahead.
