Markham, Ontario – The 2024 YONEX Canadian International Challenge concluded with an exciting array of performances, crowning new champions at the renowned Markham Pan Am Centre. Held from December 3-8, 2024, this prestigious tournament, one of North America's premier badminton events, saw top-tier athletes from around the globe competing in an intense battle for the podium.
This year’s tournament brought together 87 players from Canada and athletes representing 20 countries, including Australia, Brazil, Canada, the USA, Thailand, Indonesia, and many more. The event was a testament to the exceptional skill and determination of these athletes, with the Markham Pan Am Centre providing the perfect stage for world-class badminton action.
"Markham is wonderful when you think of a location/destination for sport," said Neil Lumsden, Ontario Minister of Sport. "It’s a great facility, well-known for hosting events like this and bringing people from across the world. The location is convenient, and they have the best venue to showcase the athletes’ skills at this level."
MEET THE WINNERS:
Women's Singles:
- Gold: Juliana Viana (Brazil)
- Silver: Michelle Li (Canada)
- Bronze: Chloe Hoang & Rachel Chan (Canada)
Men's Singles:
- Gold: Brian Yang (Canada)
- Silver: Victor Lai (Canada)
- Bronze: Timothy Lock (Canada) & Simon Baron-Vezilier (Canada)
Mixed Doubles:
- Gold: Fabricio Farias & Jaqueline Lima (Brazil)
- Silver: Davi Silva & Sania Lima (Brazil)
- Bronze: Crystal Lai & Jonathan Lai (Canada) & Ty Lindeman & Jaqueline Cheung (Canada)
Men's Doubles:
- Gold: Chen Zhi Yi & Presley Smith (USA)
- Silver: Ty Lindeman & Kevin Lee (Canada)
- Bronze: Peter Briggs & Rasmus Fladberg (Canada), Danang Dwi & Rian Agung Saputro (Indonesia)
Women's Doubles:
- Gold: Lin Wan Chin & Liu Chiao-Yun (Chinese Taipei)
- Silver: Jacqueline Cheung & Catherine Choi (Canada), Crystal Lai & Jackie Dent (Canada), Jaqueline Lima & Samia Lima (Brazil)
- Bronze: Crystal Lai & Jackie Dent (Canada), Jaqueline Lima & Samia Lima (Brazil)
The tournament also featured strong performances from athletes representing countries such as Peru, Germany, France, Mexico, Scotland, Paraguay, Luxembourg, Uganda, Afghanistan, Netherlands, Singapore, Kenya, Trinidad and Tobago, and Chinese Taipei – Taiwan.
With its continued success, the 2024 YONEX Canadian International Challenge solidifies its reputation as a key fixture on the Badminton World Federation (BWF) calendar and a premier event in North America for badminton enthusiasts.
As the event wrapped up, organizers and fans alike celebrated the high level of competition and sportsmanship on display. The passion and dedication exhibited by all the athletes were a fitting reminder of why badminton continues to grow in Canada.