Mangaluru: Baptist Sports Foundation organised the Independence Cup 2026 – Dakshina Kannada & Udupi Inter-District Badminton Tournament in memory of Dr Kishore Kumar C.K. The two-day tournament was held on August 15 and 16 in Mangaluru, attracting more than 200 players from various parts of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts.
Tournament inaugurated in Mangaluru
The inaugural ceremony was held on August 16 at 10 a.m. Mr Pradeep D’Souza, Deputy Director, Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports, was the Chief Guest, while Adv. Mrs Aruna Kishore inaugurated the event by lighting the ceremonial lamp.
The programme was attended by several personalities associated with badminton and sports, including Mr Ivan Pinto, sports promoter; Mr Santhosh, President, Dakshina Kannada Badminton Association; Mr Ravindra Bhandary, President, Mangaluru Badminton Association; Mr Sudheesh P.K., International Badminton Player; Dr Ramesh H.N., Mangalore University; and Ms Nishkala Poojary, Sports Nutritionist.
Mrs Jennifer Barretto compered the programme, while Mr Arun Baptist delivered the welcome address.
Floral tribute paid to Dr Kishore Kumar
The tournament was organised in memory of Dr Kishore Kumar C.K. As a mark of respect and remembrance, dignitaries, organisers and players paid floral tribute to him during the inaugural programme.
The tribute added a commemorative dimension to the sporting event, with participants coming together to honour his memory.
Sports nutrition session conducted
Following the inauguration, Ms Nishkala Poojary, Sports Nutritionist, conducted an educational and awareness session on “Importance of Nutrition for Badminton Players.”
The session highlighted the role of balanced nutrition in supporting physical fitness, athletic performance, recovery and overall health among badminton players.
The interaction also provided players with an opportunity to understand the importance of nutrition alongside regular training and competition.
More than 200 players participate
The two-day tournament witnessed enthusiastic participation from players representing Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts.
The matches were conducted in a competitive yet sporting atmosphere, with players displaying discipline, enthusiasm and sportsmanship throughout the tournament.
The event provided participants with an opportunity to compete against players from across the two districts while gaining valuable experience in a structured inter-district tournament.
Collective effort ensures smooth conduct
The tournament was successfully conducted with the collective efforts of the Baptist Sports Foundation team, organisers, officials, technical staff, volunteers, parents, coaches and players.
Their cooperation contributed to the smooth and timely conduct of the matches and other activities associated with the tournament.
Platform for emerging badminton talent
The Independence Cup 2026 provided a competitive platform for badminton players from Dakshina Kannada and Udupi while contributing to the promotion of the sport and development of sporting talent.
The tournament also created greater opportunities for young athletes to gain competitive exposure and participate in organised sporting events at the inter-district level.
The successful completion of the tournament served as a meaningful tribute to Dr Kishore Kumar C.K. and reflected the Baptist Sports Foundation’s commitment to promoting grassroots sports and providing quality sporting opportunities to young athletes in the region.
