THE New Year has marked the start of a very busy tournament schedule for under-15s’ Scottish Badminton Development Squad members Annabel Young (West Linton) and Robbie Patterson (Eyemouth).
Last weekend started with Annabel making the long journey down to Macclesfield, to play in a Gold tournament. She surpassed herself by reaching the quarter-finals of the singles and level doubles against a very strong field of players.
Sunday saw the pair at the under-13s’ Midland tournament at Dundee.
Annabel started strong in the singles, playing some top-class badminton. Facing Shona Whillans in the semi-final Annabel was outstanding – she was a whisker off beating the Scottish No.1, 10-21, 21-16, 21-18.
Robbie came through his group stages and semi-final to meet No.1 seed Callum Attenbury in the final. A strong and focused Patterson came through to win the final 21-18, 22-20.
Robbie, with his doubles partner Lloyd Holland, narrowly missed out in the final to Attenbury and Lewington 22-20, 21-17.
This was a fantastic result for Patterson and Holland as this was the first time the pair had played together.
Both players are extremely grateful for the support they receive from their local sports councils and the Borders Athlete Support Programme.