The National Gymnasium in Georgetown pulsed with energy from November 27–29 as the Guyana Badminton Association hosted the 2025 Gokarn Ramdhani Memorial Tournament—three days of spirited competition that showcased not just winners, but the growing strength of a sport steadily carving out its space in Guyana’s athletic identity.
Across every division, athletes displayed a level of discipline, technique, and mental resilience that speaks to the legacy of Gokarn Ramdhani, the late coach and pioneer whose life’s work helped build the foundation of today’s badminton programme. This year’s tournament, more than a medal chase, became a demonstration of how far his influence continues to reach.
In the Under-23 Men’s Singles, Frank Waddell rose above a competitive field to claim the top podium spot, signaling the arrival of another young player with the potential to shape Guyana’s future in regional play. Christopher Jordan finished second, while Ruel Rambiriche and Yonneil Benjamin tied for third—each contributing to a bracket defined by pace, precision, and youthful hunger.
The Under-23 Women’s Singles was equally compelling. Mishka Beharry delivered a commanding performance to secure first place, followed by Alimah Eastman in second. Anjaneysa Godette and Gabrielle Felix, both finishing in third, underscored the depth of emerging female talent. For observers, the women’s matches revealed a generation not only ready to dominate locally but capable of representing Guyana with pride abroad.
Doubles competition added another layer of dynamism. In Men’s Doubles, the pair of Nkosi Beaton & Daniel Tan took the top honours, demonstrating chemistry and calculated aggression. Meanwhile, Akili Haynes & Tyrese Jeffrey secured second place, and two teams—Vereendra Bhagwandin & Jason Stephney and Waddell paired with Rambiriche—shared third.
The Women’s Doubles category saw Mishka Beharry return to the top of the podium alongside Leshaunte Berkley, asserting a partnership defined by steady control and coordinated movement. Second place went to Amande Low & Anna Perreira, while third place was shared by Asiyah and Alimah Eastman, and Menikshi Jaikissoon & Gabrielle Felix.
Mixed Doubles, often the most unpredictable field, did not disappoint. Akili Haynes & Asiyah Eastman clinched first place with a strong display of strategy and synergy. Nkosi Beaton & Mishka Beharry followed in second, and two pairs—Grandison Robinson & Amande Low, and Ruel Rambiriche & Gabrielle Felix—rounded out the third-place finishers.
Beyond the medals, the tournament symbolised a broader national movement: the rise of youth athletics in an era where local sporting infrastructure, support systems, and athlete development are gaining renewed attention. Many spectators noted that the high level of play reflected improved coaching, better grassroots engagement, and a growing sense of purpose among young competitors.
As the tournament closed, gratitude flowed to sponsors Sol Guyana, Massy Distribution – Blue Waters and Ocean Spray—partners whose support helped make the event possible and provided athletes with a platform to hone their craft.
Ultimately, the Gokarn Ramdhani Memorial Tournament served its highest purpose: not merely honouring a legacy, but inspiring the next generation to advance it. At the National Gymnasium over those three days, Guyana’s badminton future felt not only bright—but inevitable.
