Exciting and intense competition is expected at the 10th Annual College Badminton Tournament today, from 9am to 2pm, where schools from Rarotonga and Aitutaki’s Araura College will battle at the National Sports Arena in Nikao.

The schools competing include Tereora College, Titikaveka College, Apii Nukutere, Apii Avarua, Apii Nikao, Apii Te Uki Ou, Apii Arorangi, Papaaroa Adventist School and Araura College.

According to Thomas Ngauru, president of Badminton Cook Islands, the tournament will include students from years 7 to 10 in junior and senior singles and doubles divisions for boys, girls and mixed teams.

“It is an all-day event, competing in singles, doubles and mix doubles,” Ngauru said.

According to Ngauru, this year’s tournament is a huge initiative for Badminton Cook Islands, as it marks the 10^th year that colleges have competed.

“It’s monumental for us being the 10^th College Tournament, 10 years since we began our junior development programmes in the school, 10 years since becoming president.”

Badminton Cook Islands is also excited that a team from Araura College will compete with the other schools in Rarotonga.

According to Ngauru, this is their second-year competing, which is a significant achievement for both Badminton Cook Islands and Araura College.

The Araura College badminton team attended a church service at the Arutanga CICC Church yesterday morning before landing in Rarotonga later in the afternoon.

Ngauru said: “It’s important to hold these events for our kids and an opportunity for us to provide a memorable experience for them. At the same time identify potential athletes who would like to take the sport further.”

“A big thank you to the schools for again allowing us to continue our school programme and supporting badminton development.”

Ngauru would like to acknowledge the tournaments sponsors, Vodafone Cook Islands, Vonnias, Brian Mason and Primefoods.

“Meitaki maata for your generous support.”