Top-ranked Maurice Looby promotes badminton for all in Westmeath

Badminton is a growing sport in Westmeath, thanks to its being "inexpensive and accessible," according to Maurice Looby from Killucan, who is now the top-ranked player over 50 in Ireland.

He achieved the badminton "grand slam" this year by winning each of the four top provincial tournaments and has qualified for the European Masters Championships in Belgium this August.

Mr Looby is keen to promote the sport in Westmeath, noting that it can be enjoyed by all ages and abilities.

"You can do it later in life, no problem; they have age groups every five years up to 35s and more, right up to over 70s," he said.

"Many men and women in their mid-70s still compete in badminton at a good level, which you wouldn’t see with the GAA.

It’s a skill like riding a bike; once you learn it, you never forget it, and it cross-pollinates well with other sports."

A former international long-distance runner, Mr Looby added that badminton compliments other sports.

"Our season starts when the GAA season finishes, and historically, GAA players would play badminton in the off-season.

“It’s great for building and maintaining fitness, and it’s indoors, so you don’t get wet!

“It’s also an inexpensive sport; you just need a racket and a shuttlecock; you don’t need lots of gear."

Mr Looby also pointed out that badminton is the second most popular sport in the world.

"It’s huge in China, India, and all over Asia," he said.

"Around 30% of our players in Mullingar are Indian, which is great.

“Denmark leads in Europe, but the sport is also very strong in England, and you might be surprised at how popular it is in Ireland."

He emphasised the need for support to grow the sport in Westmeath, where it is often "overlooked".

"We need the sport to continue, so we need more kids playing, more coaches, and, most importantly, more volunteers," he said.

"Volunteers are needed to supervise and coach kids because a club is only as good as its coaches."

Mr Looby stressed that badminton offers something for everyone.

"We have singles teams, doubles teams, mixed doubles teams - you name it,” he said.

“It’s equally popular with men and women; there are groups for all levels of ability, and it’s great for socialising.

“It’s also a sport in need of local sponsorship, so if anyone is interested, it would be great."

Badminton clubs in Westmeath include Mullingar, Ballymore, Turin, and Loughegar, which can be contacted through their websites or on social media.