Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: he Republic Cup Badminton 2026 delivered a thrilling day of competition as Samarth Kamat, Mukesh Gauns, Kanika Pai Vernekar and Shreekrushna Sakpal emerged as the standout performers, each clinching two titles at the prestigious All Goa Badminton Tournament. The event was organised by Whirlwinds Sports Club and Evening Badminton Group in association with the Goa Badminton Association at the Indoor Stadium, Campal, as part of Republic Day celebrations.
The one-day tournament witnessed intense matches across multiple age groups, senior categories and veteran events, drawing enthusiastic participation and strong crowd support. With packed stands and closely contested games, the Republic Cup once again lived up to its reputation as a celebration of badminton excellence and sporting camaraderie in Goa.
Shreekrushna Sakpal delivered a commanding performance by winning the boys under 19 singles title and pairing with Aman Prasad Singh to claim the boys doubles crown. Samarth Kamat also enjoyed a memorable outing, securing the mixed doubles title alongside Dakshita Bandhopadhyay and later adding the men’s doubles trophy with Shivam Prabhu Desai.
Mukesh Gauns proved his consistency by winning the men’s singles title and teaming up with Umesh Gauns to triumph in the parent-child category. Kanika Pai Vernekar impressed in the girls under 13 singles event and followed it up with a women’s doubles victory alongside Aditi Dhargalkar.
Young talent was on full display with winners emerging across junior categories, including Priyansh Sawant Dessai, Viaan Redkar, Neil Punjani Bakshi, Gaurang Kudav and Pihoo Redkar. The senior and women’s sections also saw strong performances, with Kavya Borkar winning the women’s singles title and veterans like Nilesh Dhargalkar and the pair of Pradeep Bhatt and Sanjib Hazra claiming top honours in their respective categories.
Family and parent-child events added a festive touch to the tournament, reinforcing the inclusive spirit of the Republic Cup. With competitive matches, emerging talent and experienced players sharing the spotlight, the tournament successfully showcased the depth and growing popularity of badminton in Goa.
