Inaugural West Wales Graded competition attracts over 100 top badminton players

Over 100 elite badminton players flocked to Pembrokeshire for the inaugural West Wales Graded competition.

The largest badminton tournament ever to grace Pembrokeshire, the competition was hosted by Haverfordwest Badminton Club at the Pembrokeshire Sports Village.

This tournament is the first of four graded competitions held throughout Wales, where Badminton Wales, the national governing body, identifies the top players.

These players are invited to compete in the prestigious annual Four Nations Graded International contest against opponents from England, Scotland, and Ireland.

Huw John from Badminton Wales, a former All England Masters singles champion with over 50 years playing experience, was thrilled with the competition.

He described it as "truly fantastic, a super tournament", and appreciated seeing new competitors. Huw currently coaches emerging talents Miya Pan and Janis Leung.

Both players made it to the Women's singles final, with Pan ultimately clinching the title.

Jamie Noble was the event's standout male performer. Noble, who began playing badminton at age seven, has battled injuries this year.

Mr Noble said: "This is the first time I’ve won all three events at a single competition, and it feels good — quite surreal, to be honest. I’m exhausted though, and my legs are still hurting 48 hours later! I really enjoyed the day; it was a great event with a good standard of play, and I had some tough but fun games."

Stephen Thornton, Valero’s manager of public affairs, said: "Hosting this event is a fantastic achievement for Haverfordwest Badminton Club and for the sport in the county. Valero’s ethos is all about promoting inclusivity and excellence, and this event encapsulates both."

The West Wales Graded competition represented his first competitive play in over two months. Not only did Noble participate, but he dominated his category, winning three titles in men's singles, men's doubles, and mixed doubles.