New Zealand’s para-athletes return to the international stage, competing at the 4th Fazza Dubai Para Badminton International from the 23rd - 30th May. With over 200 athletes from across the globe expected to descend on Dubai, the competition will provide an insightful benchmark for the New Zealand athletes.
Hawke’s Bay’s Marinda Jones and Ben Hasselman will make their mark across singles and mixed doubles events. Jones enters the Women's Singles WH1 category, with Hasselman competing in the Men's Singles WH2 event. Having only previously competed at Continental Championships, both players will be keen to get a gauge of the international level of competition. The Hawke's Bay pair will partner for mixed doubles for the first time, with only experience to gain from each match.
Waikato’s Wojtek Czyz rounds of the trio of athletes competing in Dubai, with Czyz undertaking his international classification at his maiden event. Having previously competed internationally in athletics, Czyz’s training ethic and competitive nature will no doubt shine through on the SL3 court.
New Zealand Para coach, Michelle Au accompanies the players to the UAE, "Dubai is the first time they've been able to compete outside of the Oceania region, it's going to be a real turning point for these athletes and their badminton goals. I'm excited for our athletes and hope they can ruffle a few feathers amongst the competition."
Draws and International classification take place on Monday May 23rd, with opening rounds commencing on Tuesday 24th May.
Follow the results from NZ’s athletes here: Tournament Software Results