Queer clubs descend on Manchester for annual badminton tournament
The National Cycling Centre hosted players from up and down the UK for a day of competition
It was buzzing in Manchester over the weekend, as LGBT+ badminton clubs from across the country took over the city’s Velodrome for their annual Spring Tournament.
Players descended on the city's National Cycling Centre from as far as Aberdeen and London for the event, hosted by local badminton group, the Northern Cocks.
The iconic venue saw players from Wycombe, Leicester, Bristol, London, Aberdeen, Glasgow, Ledbury and Nottingham - who were all promised a chance to showcase their skills, enjoy camaraderie, and immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of competitive sport.
'It's great to bring LGBTQ+ clubs all together'
Pete Barnes, Chairman of the Northern Cocks, told Hits Radio Pride how the event was one of the biggest they've held.
He said: "In the International Tournament's eight-year history, this by far is our most attended one yet, with over 100 people deciding to spend their Saturday here in Manchester's Velodrome.
"It's such a great thing - I had a chat with some people from one of the visiting clubs, who told me it's the first tournament they've come to which had a positive and inclusive vibe.
"Most major cities have an LGBTQ+ badminton club, so it's great to be able to bring them all together.
"My mission now is now looking to next year - it'd be great to have even more groups represented in 2026."
'I'm not this competitive with Connect 4!'
Julian Kelly was one of those taking part.
He's been involved in the sport for just over half a year, and decided this weekend was his chance to put his skills to the test.
The bronze medallist reflected: "It's great - and more than anything, it's fantastic to see that there are so many queer badminton clubs all over the country.
"What's even better is what I've seen in how everyone's just been supporting one another.
"Today has brought out a competitive side in me that I didn't know was there... I'm not like with with Connect 4, let's put it that way!
"We're exhausted - but it's very invigorating as well.
"I'm 53, and I only started last summer, so all things considered, I think it's been a pretty successful day!"