Argyll Junior League singles tournament showcases exceptional talent

With a total of 37 entries, the event saw fierce competition and exceptional performances across all divisions.

Notably, for 16 of the players, this was their first regional tournament, marking a significant milestone in their budding careers.

The tournament featured participants from various regions: Bute (6), Glasgow (1), Mull (5), Oban (7), and Kintyre (16).

Unfortunately, two entries from Lochgilphead had to pull out before the event. This event marks the fifth in our series since we started a year ago, reflecting the growing interest and dedication to badminton in Argyll and Bute.

Division 1 crowned Freddie Harris, Glasgow, as the champion. Harris delivered a series of dominant performances, defeating David Simpson, Oban, (15-4 and 15-5), Euan Dods, Oban, (15-1), and Joris Hutton, Mull, (15-5).

Despite a single loss to Hutton (10-15), Harris’s consistent victories secured his top spot.

In Division 2, Finn Turnbull, Mull, emerged victorious with impressive wins over Ryan Campbell, Oban, (15-3 and 15-9), and Ruairidh Newiss, Oban, (15-13 and 15-7). Campbell’s efforts earned him second place with crucial wins against Newiss (16-14) and strong performances throughout the tournament.

Division 3 saw Murray Mackay, Kintyre, clinch the title in a thrilling final against Hamish Caskie, Mull, (15-12). Mackay’s journey to the final included victories over his twin brother Millar Mackay, Kintyre, (15-11) and Heathcliff Thomas, Bute, (15-11).

Division 4 featured Lewis Macqueen, Bute, who claimed the championship by defeating Finlay Ramsay, Kintyre, in the final (15-12). Other strong contenders included Fraser Macgregor, Bute, and Gracie-Anne Whittaker, Mull, with Macgregor winning the consolation final against Lewis Binnie, Oban, (15-11).

Division 5 champion Thomas Millar, Kintyre, emerged victorious in the final against Harry Ronald, Kintyre, (11-6). 

Division 6 crowned Robbie Cox, Kintyre, as the champion. Cox showcased his skills in a gripping final against Robbie Ramsay, Kintyre, winning with a score of 11-10.

Reflecting on the event, Ryan McCuaig of the Argyll and Bute Badminton team, stated: "I was very impressed by how our players have developed in such a short period of time, which is a testament to the clubs and regional coaches in Argyll and Bute working hard.

"I wanted to add that I am very grateful for all the volunteers and parents. Without them, we wouldn’t be able to run tournaments like these."

The tournament highlighted the exceptional talent and competitive spirit of young athletes from across Argyll, promising a bright future for badminton in the region.