What can be more fun than playing badminton in Sydney, Australia?  The fierce badminton competition between the Malaysians and the British consisted of a mixture of overhead smashes and lunges for soft net play.  During the volleys the crowd was quiet, and the only sounds that could be heard were the soft thwack of the shuttlecock hitting the racquet.   During the most exciting moments, each match the spectators displayed a reserved enthusiasm as is appropriate for this sport. 

Approximately 174 matches were played with 140 participants, of whom 59 were women and 81 were men.  The countries with the highest number of participating athletes were Great Britain, Hungary, USA, The Netherlands, France, Australia, and Germany.  Gold medals in the men's competition went to Germany, Malaysia, and Great Britain.  Sweden, The Netherlands, Canada, Malaysia, and Great Britain took home the gold in the women's competition.   All the athletes and spectators had a great time! 

Listen here to an interview with Holly Pontious of Team USA. 

 

Listen to an interview with Martina  Schmidt of Team Germany:  English or Deutsch

 

Listen here to an interview  with Dr.Phaibul of  Team Thailand:  English or Thai