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Once a competitive badminton player, Dr Dinesh Karawgoda of Perth’s Kalamunda Dental Care now plays for the fun and skill of the game.
“I used to play in tournaments organised by the Badminton Association of Western Australia. I was a reasonably good player but haven’t competed in the past four years. The problem was that I didn’t start playing badminton until I was in my 30s so I was a bit limited in how proficient I could become.
“Competitive badminton requires excellent physical fitness, stamina and flexibility. Some games are fast-moving with players strategising two or three shots ahead. It’s definitely a young person’s sport at a competitive level.
“These days, I play socially around four times a week at three different badminton clubs. They’re friendly games but can get very competitive.
“I first played badminton at high school for a bit of fun, then didn’t think about it until I started again in 2016.
“One of my friends was in the WA state team and encouraged me to play. As I developed more interest in the game, I was quite fortunate to be coached by some seriously good players. I’m glad I played in high school, so I didn’t come to badminton cold as an adult. It’s funny how those sports you play at school stick with you.
“Badminton is the fastest racket sport in the world. A shuttlecock can reach speeds in excess of 400 kilometres per hour. It’s a multi-faceted game and not all about strength and power, although there’s nothing like delivering a thundering smash.
“While power shots are an essential part of the game, so is the ability to play delicately and accurately. Some shots require finesse and fine control as well as deception. It’s a game where physical strength may not necessarily make you the best player.
“Badminton is very popular in Asian and Scandinavian countries but not as well-known in Australia. Good players at high levels need to be physically fit with the ability to change direction quickly. It’s a great workout mentally and physically. It’s also a great way to unwind after a busy and stressful day at work.
“I like that badminton is an adrenaline-packed game that can be played in any weather. The strategic gameplay makes it similar to chess. I’ve started voluntary coaching and I’m training my eight-year-old son on the weekends. He really likes it and it’s a great way to do some father-and-son bonding. I’m hoping to play badminton for years to come and hoping to see many older players in the clubs.”
