A Landmark Week for Para Badminton in Oceania
This week marks a significant milestone for para badminton, not just globally, but especially within Oceania. The VICTOR Oceania Para Badminton Championships 2025 have officially begun, bringing together athletes from across the region in a celebration of skill, resilience, and sporting spirit.
This fifth edition of the continental championships is historic for two reasons:
- It’s the first time a continental para badminton event is being held alongside a Grade Three tournament, creating a unified stage for both able-bodied and para athletes.
- It also marks the international debut of Vanuatu, Oceania’s newest BWF member nation, adding another proud flag to the lineup.
The atmosphere was one of quiet pride and shared purpose; players focused on their matches, teams supporting each other, and moments between games filled with laughter, reflection, and a sense of camaraderie. It was the icing on the cake for a region that’s been steadily building momentum.
Foster Makes His Mark in International Debut
Among the standout stories of the day was Remi Foster of Australia, who made a memorable entrance into international competition. Facing top seed Rishi Venu of New Zealand in the SL3 men’s singles, Foster showed remarkable composure and tactical adaptability.
After dropping the first game, Foster recalibrated his strategy, targeting Venu’s backhand corner and gradually gaining control of the match.
“First set I was a little bit tentative, especially with some of the shots—I was playing into his hand,” Foster said. “Second set I tried to hit towards his backhand corner a bit more and get an advantage, more points, and that’s how I won I guess.”
Final score: 18–21, 21–11, 21–13.
Maiauka’s Masterclass in Placement
Another highlight came from Laho Maiauka of Papua New Guinea, who delivered a clinical performance against Chad Campbell of New Zealand in the WH1 men’s singles. With pinpoint accuracy and intelligent shot placement, Maiauka controlled the pace and rhythm of the match from start to finish.
His ability to exploit space and anticipate Campbell’s movements was evident throughout both games, earning him a straight-sets victory.
Final score: 21–18, 21–9.
