Breaking: ASPTT Strasbourg Sweeps 41st Ostwald Tournament Amid Heat Wave
Unprecedented Heat Challenges Players and Spectators Alike
The 41st Ostwald Tournament, held this past weekend, was a test of endurance for the 295 registered players. Temperatures soared to 35°C at the sports and leisure center in Ostwald and 31°C with 70% humidity at the Maxime Alexandre gymnasium in Lingolsheim. The heat wave made for challenging conditions, but ASPTT Strasbourg emerged victorious despite the sweltering environment.
ASPTT Strasbourg Dominates the Major Series
ASPTT Strasbourg triumphed in the three tables of the major series (N2/N3). Hugo Constans, the sole N2 player in his group, won the men’s singles. Julien Killius, paired with ex-post Maximilien Lamblot, claimed victory in the men’s doubles with a 21-12, 21-12 score over Colmarians Jean Zipper and Mattéo Spieser. In the mixed doubles, Lamblot and Marine Feruzi defeated Zipper and Sophie Fleck 21-17, 21-12.
Expert Insights and Player Achievements
Maximilien Lamblot, who lives and works in Strasbourg, reflected on his success, “It’s been a year and a half that we’ve played together, and we’ve won almost all the tournaments we’ve entered.” Marine Feruzi, his partner, echoed this sentiment, “I had already imposed myself here several times in singles, but it’s hard to say how much.” Julien Killius, who returned to the sport last year after a three-and-a-half-year break, observed, “In 2024, I won the Mixed R6/D7 here. A year later, I won the double N2/N3. It’s been a remarkable journey.”
Tournament Organizers Reflect on Success
The president of BCO, Tiffany Number, expressed satisfaction with the event, “Amazing, we recorded more last-minute registrations than usual. We remain one of the few clubs to offer singles, which attracts more players. It’s because we have many volunteers that we can organize our tournament in this format.”
Results and Key Highlights
The tournament saw notable performances across all series. In the R4/R5 series, Léo Adam from Albi won the men’s singles, while Zoé Mack from Phalsbourg claimed the women’s singles. The mixed doubles final was a standout, with Bastien Creusot and Lou-Ann-Soucher from Strasbourg defeating their opponents 21-17, 21-19.
Looking Ahead: Future Implications and Tips for Players
With the success of this year’s tournament, organizers are already planning for next year. Players are advised to stay hydrated and prepare for challenging weather conditions. The tournament’s growing popularity indicates a bright future for badminton in the region, attracting more players and spectators each year.