The Celtic Challenge 2025 took place at Bangor University (Canolfan Brailsford) on 29th & 30th March. Wales welcomed Leinster, Ulster and Lothian to North Wales to compete in an exciting weekend of U13’s badminton.
The event consisted of 3 rounds with the order of play being Boys Doubles 1,2 & 3, Girls Doubles 1,2, & 3, Boys Singles 1, 2, & 3, Girls Singles 1,2 & 3 and to finish Mixed Doubles 1,2 & 3.
The first round of the event on Saturday morning saw Leinster take on Wales & Ulster take on Lothian.
Round 1 Results:
Leinster- 13 : Wales- 2
Lothian- 12 : Ulster- 3
Round two which took place on Saturday afternoon saw Leinster vs Lothian & Ulster vs Wales.
Round 2 Results:
Leinster- 15 : Lothian- 0
Ulster- 8 : Wales- 7
Saturday night the teams enjoyed some social time, where they all had dinner together and enjoyed playing some social badminton all together.
Round three was the last and final round on Sunday morning, also Mother’s Day! Leinster player Ulster & Lothian player Wales.
Round 3 Results:
Leinster- 15 : Ulster- 0
Lothian- 10 : Wales- 5
The Welsh Coach Joshua Hart said ” It was an honour as always to coach the Young Welsh Celtic Challange Squad, even more so on home soil!
The atmosphere from all the players, parents and supporters was just fantastic and it was amazing to see everyone have an amazing weekend of competition.
I can’t wait to see what awaits these young Welsh players in the near future!”
Sharon, the Welsh team, Team Manager added “Brilliant play from all players, and they all showed a brilliant attitude all round, across the whole weekend”.
The final results of the weekend meant that “Leinster” where the overall Champions of the Celtic Challenge 2025.
Our runners up where “Lothian”
3rd place went to “Ulster”
4th place went to “Wales”
Badminton Wales would like to say a huge congratulations to all teams for competing and showing so much enjoyment for the event.
Thank you to all Team Managers & Coaches who travelled with the teams and helped make the event such a success. Also, to the parents who supported all weekend & made a lovely environment for the children playing.