Kota Kinabalu: The second edition of the Lightning Cup Badminton Championship concluded successfully at Resorts World Awana, Genting, from August 21 to 24 brought together over 600 senior players from 15 countries, celebrating athleticism and sportsmanship.
Organised by the Lightning Cup Group, led by Datuk Jack Koh, CEO of Sports Arena, the event continues to promote badminton as a lifelong sport.
Koh is son-in-law of Looi Suk, a well-known figure in Malaysian badminton and widely regarded as the godfather of national icon Datuk Lee Chong Wei.
Seniors who do not exercise regularly are discouraged from sports like badminton due to the sudden jerks and reflexes which are the hallmarks of the game.
There has been many cases of seniors suffering heart arrest and deaths.
Among other nations participating are Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Korea, China and Japan.
Among the standout was 75-year-old Johnny Yong from Sabah, a seasoned player who had competed in international tournaments for the past 15 years.
“This tournament was especially exciting because it included a category for players aged 75 and above, which is rare in most competitions,” said Johnny.
Representing Malaysia was Team Jesselton, a diverse group of players from Kuala Lumpur, Limbang (Sarawak), Labuan, and four from Kota Kinabalu.
The team delivered an impressive performance, bringing home a total of six medals: two gold, two silver, and two bronze.
Participant from Limbang emerged as a standout, winning both singles and doubles events while, Johnny earned a gold medal in the 150+ combined age group and a silver in the 75+ age category. Fellow Sabahan Nawawi secured a bronze medal.
The four Sabah contingent included Johnny Yong, Nawawi, Harry Yong, and David Yong, all of whom contributed to Team Jesselton’s success.
Also making an appearance was Bobby Ertanto, a former All-England champion from Indonesia who rose to fame in the 1970s and 1980s. His presence added excitement and energy to the tournament, especially among fellow badminton enthusiasts.
Local support came from Suria 7 Hotel in Kota Kinabalu, which sponsored T-shirts for the players. Owner Humphrey Tan Koon Yee, whose contribution was appreciated by the team, made the gesture possible.
Looking ahead, Johnny and his team are preparing for the next tournament in Chengdu, China, where over 3,000 participants are expected to compete.
“In a year, I usually join five international tournaments, but my participation is limited now due to age,” Johnny said with a smile.
Despite the challenges, he praised the tournament’s organisation, describing the games as well-arranged and enjoyable.
He also expressed hope for greater local involvement in future editions.
“With the third edition coming next year, I truly hope to see more Malaysians, especially Sabahans joining in.
It’s a great opportunity for seniors to stay active, connect with others, and compete on an international stage,” he added.
Organised by the Lightning Cup Group, led by Datuk Jack Koh, CEO of Sports Arena, the event continues to promote badminton as a lifelong sport.
Koh is son-in-law of Looi Suk, a well-known figure in Malaysian badminton and widely regarded as the godfather of national icon Datuk Lee Chong Wei.
Seniors who do not exercise regularly are discouraged from sports like badminton due to the sudden jerks and reflexes which are the hallmarks of the game.
There has been many cases of seniors suffering heart arrest and deaths.
Among other nations participating are Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Korea, China and Japan.
Among the standout was 75-year-old Johnny Yong from Sabah, a seasoned player who had competed in international tournaments for the past 15 years.
“This tournament was especially exciting because it included a category for players aged 75 and above, which is rare in most competitions,” said Johnny.
Representing Malaysia was Team Jesselton, a diverse group of players from Kuala Lumpur, Limbang (Sarawak), Labuan, and four from Kota Kinabalu.
The team delivered an impressive performance, bringing home a total of six medals: two gold, two silver, and two bronze.
Participant from Limbang emerged as a standout, winning both singles and doubles events while, Johnny earned a gold medal in the 150+ combined age group and a silver in the 75+ age category. Fellow Sabahan Nawawi secured a bronze medal.
The four Sabah contingent included Johnny Yong, Nawawi, Harry Yong, and David Yong, all of whom contributed to Team Jesselton’s success.
Also making an appearance was Bobby Ertanto, a former All-England champion from Indonesia who rose to fame in the 1970s and 1980s. His presence added excitement and energy to the tournament, especially among fellow badminton enthusiasts.
Local support came from Suria 7 Hotel in Kota Kinabalu, which sponsored T-shirts for the players. Owner Humphrey Tan Koon Yee, whose contribution was appreciated by the team, made the gesture possible.
Looking ahead, Johnny and his team are preparing for the next tournament in Chengdu, China, where over 3,000 participants are expected to compete.
“In a year, I usually join five international tournaments, but my participation is limited now due to age,” Johnny said with a smile.
Despite the challenges, he praised the tournament’s organisation, describing the games as well-arranged and enjoyable.
He also expressed hope for greater local involvement in future editions.
“With the third edition coming next year, I truly hope to see more Malaysians, especially Sabahans joining in.
It’s a great opportunity for seniors to stay active, connect with others, and compete on an international stage,” he added.