Para-Badminton is a form of badminton adapted specifically for people with physical disabilities. It has been a Paralympic sport since 2004 and is growing in popularity all over the world. But where is para-badminton actually played?
Para-Badminton in the Paralympics
The first time para-badminton was featured as a Paralympic sport was at the 2004 Summer Paralympics in Athens, Greece. Since then, it has been included in every Summer Paralympics, and the 2020 Tokyo Games will be no exception. During the Paralympic Games, para-badminton is divided into five classes based on the players’ disabilities. These classes are: Standing Lower, Standing Upper, Wheelchair-A, Wheelchair-B, and Wheelchair-C.
The International Para-Badminton Federation
The International Para-Badminton Federation (IPBF) is the governing body for the sport of para-badminton. It is responsible for the promotion, development, and regulation of the sport worldwide. The IPBF is also involved in organizing international para-badminton tournaments and encouraging the sport among people with disabilities.
Para-Badminton in Asia
Para-badminton is especially popular in Asia, which is home to some of the world’s best para-badminton players. India is the most successful nation in para-badminton, with over 30 international titles. Other countries in the region with a strong para-badminton presence include Japan, China, Thailand, and Indonesia.
Para-Badminton in Europe
Europe is also home to a thriving para-badminton community. The European Para-Badminton Championships have been held every year since 2004, and the European Para-Badminton Games were first held in 2018. The European Para-Badminton Championships are open to players from all over Europe, and the European Para-Badminton Games are open only to players from European countries.
Para-Badminton in the Americas
Para-badminton is also growing in popularity in the Americas. The first Pan American Para-Badminton Championships were held in 2018 in Guatemala, and the tournament has been held every year since then. The Pan American Para-Badminton Championships are open to players from all over the Americas.
Para-Badminton in Africa
Para-badminton is gaining popularity in Africa as well. The first African Para-Badminton Championships were held in 2018 in South Africa, and the tournament has been held every year since then. The African Para-Badminton Championships are open to players from all over the continent.
Conclusion
Para-badminton is a growing sport all over the world, and it is particularly popular in Asia, Europe, the Americas, and Africa. The International Para-Badminton Federation is responsible for the promotion, development, and regulation of the sport, and it is also involved in organizing international tournaments. The Paralympic Games have featured para-badminton since 2004, and the sport is growing in popularity every year.