Aklil Haynes and Mishka Beharry dominates Independence Badminton with gold in two categories

May 19, 2026 Sports

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Kaieteur Sports – The Guyana’s 60th Independence Anniversary Badminton Tournament concluded in spectacular fashion at the National Gymnasium, as the finals delivered high-quality badminton, national pride, and outstanding individual performances to mark Guyana’s Diamond Jubilee Independence celebrations. The event brought together the country’s leading senior and junior athletes across multiple categories, showcasing the continued growth of the sport locally.

The standout performers of the tournament were Akil Haynes and Mishka Beharry, who each captured two gold medals in their respective categories. Haynes demonstrated excellent teamwork and consistency to secure gold in both the Men’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles events, while Beharry was equally impressive, dominating the Under-23 Women’s Singles and Women’s Doubles categories to emerge as one of the tournament’s most successful athletes.

In the other featured finals, Sheraz Nabbie claimed the Men’s Singles title after a strong campaign marked by disciplined shot-making and composure under pressure. Ashley Khalil secured the Women’s Singles crown following a determined and well-executed performance throughout the competition. In the Under-23 Men’s Singles category, Frank Waddell emerged victorious, highlighting the next generation of emerging badminton talent in Guyana.

The presentation ceremony was held immediately following the finals, bringing the tournament to a formal close. In her closing remarks, the Vice President of the Guyana Badminton Association informed athletes and officials of an important upcoming change in the sport’s international scoring system.

“The Badminton World Federation has officially approved a new scoring system consisting of 2 out of 3 games played to 15 points, which will take effect internationally from January 2027. The decision was made following trials and discussions aimed at making matches more fast-paced, exciting, and appealing for players, spectators, and broadcasters worldwide.

All clubs were encouraged to begin practicing and familiarizing themselves with this new format, as several international tournaments will gradually start implementing the system prior to its official introduction.”

Mrs. Watson on behalf of the Guyana Badminton Association expressed sincere appreciation to the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and the Government of Guyana for their invaluable support and contribution toward the success of the tournament.

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson commended the Guyana Badminton Association for successfully staging the tournament, noting that several sporting disciplines across the country were also hosting events in celebration of Guyana’s Jubilee Independence Anniversary.

Minister Ramson further highlighted the upcoming commissioning of the new badminton facility at the Racquet Centre, describing it as an Independence gift to the badminton fraternity and a significant step in strengthening sports infrastructure in Guyana.

Medals and cash prizes were presented by Minister Charles Ramson, Kashif Mohamed, Chairman, National Sports Commission, and Melissa Dow-Richardson, Asst. Director of Sports.

The tournament concluded on a high note, blending national celebration with sporting excellence, and reinforcing the continued development and future promise of badminton in Guyana. Two special prizes were also awarded to the oldest and youngest registered participants in the tournament, with Mr. William Holder recognized as the oldest player and Ms. Lucy Leo recognized as the youngest player.Top of Form

WINNERS

Under 23 Men’s Singles

1^st Place – Frank Waddell

2^nd Place – Christopher Jordan

3^rd Place – Yonneil Benjamin

• Caleb Tan

Under 23 Women’s Singles

1^st Place – Mishka Beharry

2^nd Place – Alimah Eastman

3^rd Place – Menishki Jaikissoon

• Anya Manickchand

Men’s Singles

1^st Place – Sheraz Nabbie

2^nd Place – Akili Haynes

3^rd Place – Frank Waddell

• Tyrese Jeffrey

Women’s Singles

1^st Place – Ashley Khalil

2^nd Place – Mishka Beharry

3^rd Place – Alimah Eastman

• Asiyah Eastman

Men’s Doubles

1^st Place – Akili Haynes + Tyrese Jeffery

2^nd Place – Daniel Tan + Nkosi Beaton

3^rd Place – Percival Chester + Ronit Gulchand

• Troxley Cutting + Grandison Robinson

Women’s Doubles

1^st Place – Mishka Beharry + Leshaunte Berkley

2^nd Place – Asiyan Eastman + Menishki Jaikissoon

3^rd Place – Abosadie Cadogan + Ashley Khalil

• Amande Low-Lewis + Anna Perrerria

Mixed Doubles

1^st Place – Akili Haynes + Asiyah Eastman

2^nd Place – Nkosi Beaton + Mishka Beharry

3^rd Place – Frank Waddell + Leshaunte Berkley

• Amande Low-Lewis + Grandison Robinson

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• Aklil Haynes, Badminton, gold, Mishka Beharry

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