167 entries for first ABA Cup shuttle tourney

The Etisalat Academy will host the first ABA Cup UAE Open Badminton tournament in seven categories and the organisers expect to donate the money raised to help children with special needs and other charitable organisations.

"In the UAE, about 500 badminton players regularly play and practice at various avenues. ABA Cup is conceptualised to showcase the game in its best form and vigour," said Geethalaxmi R, Chief Executive Officer and Partner, ABA Management Consultants and Associated Business Attorneys.

"The ABA Cup will be focused on enhancing the game's popularity in the UAE. The first tournament will be held at the Sports Hall, Sports and Leisure Club, Etisalat Academy, Muhaisna. Players will vie in seven categories: men's single's, doubles, veterans singles, veterans doubles, mixed doubles and boys singles in two categories."

Geethalaxmi said between 150 and 200 players from across the UAE?will participate in the tournament. All residents in the UAE can participate in the tournament, which will start on April 23 and end with a gala dinner and prize distribution ceremony on May 1.

"We are providing a chance for the girls to play badminton. There will be teams from different nationalities, the UAE, India, Indonesia, China, the Philippines, Pakistan, Syria, Lebanon, Iran and other countries. There are already 167 entries for the tournament," said Geethalaxmi.

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