Around 200+ juniors will feature in the Yonex Sunrise Gautam Thakkar Memorial Maharashtra State Junior Badminton Championship, to be hosted at the Bombay Gymkhana from January 21 to 24, 2025. Singles competition will be held for boys and girls in the age groups of under 11, under 13 and under 15 and in doubles for boys and girls under 15.
“As a close friend of Mr. Gautam Thakkar, I am honored to sponsor this event and continue his legacy. Mr. Thakkar has won the Junior Asian Badminton Championship. This tournament is a wonderful initiative to nurture young talent and strengthen the foundation of badminton in Maharashtra. I am committed to helping the sport grow and flourish, and I believe events like these play a vital role in shaping future champions,” said event sponsor Shyam Bhatia.
Ayaz Bilawala, Tournament Committee, Bombay Gymkhana said, “Bombay Gymkhana is proud to host the Yonex Sunrise Gautam Thakkar Memorial Championship in association with Mr. Shyam Bhatia. This tournament provides a wonderful platform for junior and sub-junior players to showcase their talent. We hope to witness future champions of Maharashtra and India take their first big steps here.”
Supriya Devgun, Founder & MD, Badminton Gurukul, the event promoters said, “At Badminton Gurukul, we aim to nurture young talent and build a pipeline for future champions. The Yonex Sunrise Gautam Thakkar Memorial Championship provides an excellent opportunity for juniors to compete, gain exposure, and enhance their game. We are happy to be part of a tournament that upholds the spirit of sportsmanship and promotes grassroots badminton in Maharashtra.”
Shailesh Daga, the Badminton Secretary of Bombay Gymkhana, stated, “After a gap of several years, we are thrilled to revive this prestigious tournament. Mr. Gautam Thakkar was a passionate badminton player who represented Maharashtra and India with distinction. His dear friend, Mr. Shyam Bhatia, has generously committed his sponsorship for the next five years, ensuring this event’s success and growth. We hope this tournament encourages children to play with passion and determination.”
