Kota Kinabalu: The recently concluded World Chinese Masters Badminton Championship (Lighting Cup), held from December 12 to 15 in Kuala Lumpur, showed exceptional talent, with Sabah’s Johnny Yong (70), Bruni Garip (74), and Pahat Galan (69) emerging as champions.
The prestigious tournament, organised by Petaling BC under the leadership of Datuk Jack Koh, drew participants from across the globe, including players from Hong Kong, Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia, Singapore, China, Korea, Thailand, and others.
Pahat triumphed in the Men’s Singles category, while the Men’s Doubles title was claimed by the dynamic duo of Johnny and Bruni.
Their outstanding performances earned thunderous applause from the audience, with their success serving as a proof to their dedication, skill and enduring passion for the sport, despite their advanced age.
Adding to the event’s significance, Malaysia’s National Badminton Coach and Director of Coaching, Rexy Mainaky, attended the tournament.
He extended his congratulations to the winners and offered encouragement and support to all participants.
Johnny was overwhelmed with his victory and expressed his delight at the achievement, particularly at his senior age.
“I am utterly delighted with this achievement despite my senior age.
“I couldn’t be happier knowing that an international coach like Rexy was around to witness the game,” said Johnny, the Sabah-born player now living in Perth, Australia.
“It was very encouraging to see Coach Rexy there. We were thrilled and excited at the same time.
The tournament celebrated the spirit of competitive sportsmanship and further solidified Malaysia’s reputation as a premier destination for world-class badminton events,” he said.
