Badminton, which is played by both men and women, involves an equal amount of skill and physical commitment. It ensures equal opportunity for men and women to compete on the same court. A few other sports, such as tennis, table tennis, squash and horseback riding, attempt to do the same thing. Badminton is played as five different events: men's singles, women's singles, men's doubles, women doubles, and mixed doubles and has been called "The Fastest Racket Sport on Earth".
The current spread of badminton's popularity is indicated by the increasing numbers of players on any chosen continent; it is especially popular in Asia. Some say badminton is the fastest growing sport for individuals between the ages of 6 and 70. The game is played in 143 member countries of the International Badminton Federation or IBF.
Currently in Turkey, there are 60 university teams; Bilkent University's badminton court was constructed to meet International Badminton Federation Standards; Bilkent also provides the equipment needed to play. One opportunity to get to know badminton better is “The Rector's Cup Badminton Tournament”, which will be held onSaturday, April 27 at the Main Sports Hall. Those who want to register for the tournament can contact the Physical Education and Sports Center at ext. 1993 or 1325.

Ekin Pehlivan (IR/IV)