Badminton’s Unstoppable Force: 88-Year-Old coach Still Going strong
An 88-year-old badminton coach continues to inspire players, proving that age is just a number when it comes to passion and dedication.
Decades of Dedication to Badminton
Colin Bedford has dedicated many years of his life to teaching badminton. Bedford expresses immense happiness from his work, highlighting the positive impact it has had on his life.
Inspiring Players of All Ages
Bedford’s continued involvement in badminton serves as an inspiration to players of all ages, demonstrating the enduring power of sports and the value of lifelong engagement.
Badminton: More Than Just a Game
For Bedford, badminton is more than just a game; it’s a source of joy, purpose, and connection. His story underscores the importance of physical activity and social interaction in maintaining a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle, irrespective of age.
Badminton Legend Celebrated for 65 Years of Coaching
MARCH, Cambridgeshire — A badminton coach from Cambridgeshire was recently honored for an incredible 65 years of teaching the sport. Current and former players gathered at Neale-Wade Academy, in a hall named after him, to celebrate the milestone.
Cambridgeshire Coach Marks 65th Year
Colin Bedford, who hails from March, Cambridgeshire, began playing badminton at the age of 11. He is considered one of the sport’s longest-serving coaches in the UK.

No Plans to Retire
Bedford started coaching at 23 and stated that he has taught “thousands and thousands to play” and has no plans to retire.
Badminton Legend Celebrates Milestone: still Coaching after Decades
A dedicated badminton coach, recognized as the oldest in the country, recently celebrated a special milestone, marking decades of service to the sport and his local community. He continues to inspire players of all ages and abilities.
A Lifetime Dedicated to Badminton
The coach expressed immense pride and excitement on his special day, stating it was a great honor to have everyone present. He hopes to continue coaching for many years to come.
Thousands Taught, Fitness Promoted
Over the years, he estimates he has taught thousands of people to play badminton. While at his peak, he coached multiple times a week, he now coaches once a week. He emphasizes the sport’s benefits for physical fitness and the enjoyment he gains from the company of fellow players.
More Than Just a Game
Beyond the sport itself, the coach values the social aspect of badminton, enjoying the camaraderie and connections he has made throughout his career. His dedication has not only improved the physical health of many but also fostered a strong sense of community.
badminton Community Honors Octogenarian for Decades of Dedication
MARCH,UK – Colin Bedford,an octogenarian from March,was celebrated by the badminton community for his unwavering commitment to the sport. A sports hall was named in his honor several years ago. The recognition highlights Bedford’s important contribution and enduring legacy within the sport.
Badminton World Federation Representative inspired
dianne Pierre, 41, representing the Badminton World Federation based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, attended the event and expressed her admiration for Bedford. She noted the remarkable turnout, reflecting the high regard the community holds for him.
Focus on Human Interest Stories
Pierre, whose work typically involves interviewing Olympic and World Champions, said she found Bedford’s long standing involvement in badminton particularly inspiring. She emphasized the importance of recognizing human interest stories like Bedford’s, showcasing dedication and commitment over many years.

Community Festivity
The event served as a testament to Bedford’s impact on the local badminton scene, bringing together numerous individuals to acknowledge his contributions to the sport. His dedication continues to inspire players and officials alike.
Badminton Keeps Loneliness at Bay for 88-Year-Old Coach
An 88-year-old badminton coach has revealed how his dedication to the sport has helped him combat loneliness following the loss of his wife. His passion for badminton and coaching provides a sense of purpose and community.
Finding Solace and Purpose on the Court
The coach, who will soon turn 89, expressed his love for badminton and coaching, emphasizing the joy and anticipation it brings to his life. Since the passing of his wife, Margaret, a few years ago, he found that being with his badminton community has significantly eased his loneliness.
A goal to Coach Thru 90 and Beyond
With unwavering enthusiasm, the coach aims to continue coaching until he is at least 90 years old, viewing any additional time beyond that as a welcome bonus. His commitment underscores the profound impact of badminton on his well-being and his desire to remain actively involved in the sport he loves.
How has coaching badminton helped Colin Bedford maintain his own well-being, notably after experiencing personal loss?
Badminton’s Enduring Legacy: A Q&A with Colin Bedford
This article series celebrates the remarkable dedication of Colin Bedford, an 88-year-old badminton coach, highlighting his decades-long commitment to the sport. Let’s delve deeper into his inspiring story.
Q&A: Unpacking colin Bedford’s Badminton Journey
Who is Colin Bedford?
Colin Bedford is an 88-year-old (soon to be 89) badminton coach from March, Cambridgeshire, UK.He has dedicated over six decades to the sport, coaching thousands of players and inspiring generations.
how long has Colin Bedford been coaching?
Colin Bedford has been coaching for an notable 65 years, starting at the age of 23. He began playing at 11.
What impact has badminton had on Colin Bedford’s life?
Badminton has provided Bedford with joy, purpose, social connections, and a way to combat loneliness after the loss of his wife. It has substantially contributed to his physical and mental well-being.
Where does Colin Bedford coach?
while the exact location isn’t specified in all articles, he is based in March, Cambridgeshire, and the Neale-Wade Academy has a sports hall named after him.
What is the key to Colin Bedford’s longevity in coaching?
Bedford’s passion, dedication, and the social aspect of badminton are key. He finds fulfillment in teaching others and enjoys the camaraderie within the badminton community. He also has no plans to retire.
What is the badminton World Federation’s (BWF) involvement with Colin Bedford?
Dianne Pierre, a representative from the BWF based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, attended an event celebrating bedford. She expressed admiration for his dedication and the human interest story his life represents.
What is the name of the sports hall named after Colin Bedford?
The sports hall is named the Colin Bedford sports Hall.
Does Colin Bedford have any plans to retire?
No, he has no plans to retire and aims to continue coaching until at least the age of 90.
Colin Bedford’s story is a testament to the enduring power of passion, community, and the positive impact sports can have on a person’s life at any age. His dedication inspires us all to stay active and connected. Read about how Badminton keeps Loneliness at Bay here.