There’s one tremendous thing about our national tv station, they do try to support most activities and sports at some time during the year. Although much of today’s sport is only shown on paid viewing channels, the marginal ones still get a look in. Badminton for example does get a showing in the schedules when there are major tournaments and world competitions. It is very popular in fact. Looking at the coverage of last year’s national open competition, the network had a big write up on their sports pages – they give a very thorough history and how it has evolved to the major international sport that has reached olympic level. Take the all England Open for example, it is described as the world’s oldest and definitely the most famous. It has a clearly defined slot at a very large venue and features the five disciplines which are demonstrated in 155 matched over six days. Now that is a lot of coverage for a sport that does not involve massive player salaries or agent fees! Last year saw the 125th all England badminton open championships as they were played live across their sports broadcasting network and took place in the spring. There is a great deal to be said for a national tv network. The players in last year’s championship were working towards selection for the olympics in the summer. The publicity and support available really boosts a sport.
