Former champion Kim Wah aims to impart experience at National Championships

Lim Kim Wah said his National Championships participation this year was more about giving back to the sport, rather than targeting a podium finish.

With almost two decades of experience, the 34-year-old proved his worth by teaming up with Khoo Kwang Yean to beat Penang’s Eizariff Eiznish-Tan Kean Wei 21-11, 21-19 and move into the second round on Wednesday.

“This year it’s just about enjoying it, I have not set any target. Playing here also gives the juniors an opportunity to pair with the seniors and test themselves.

“The National Championships used to be made up of only national shuttlers. But now there are state shuttlers involved as well. It’s good for them as it gives them exposure.

“The elite shuttlers only compete when they are not playing in tournaments, but it’s obviously not the same without them,” Lim said.

A highly regarded showcase, the event boasted high profile winners like Lee Chong Wei, who won it 10 consecutive times from 2002-2011.

Lim himself bagged a men’s doubles title with Chan Peng Soon in 2008, two years after competing for the first time as a 17-year-old.

These days, the Penang-born is competing at BWF World Tour events with Goh V Shem, whom he won the Malaysia Open title with in 2014.

“V Shem is the most ideal partner for me, as he’s an experienced shuttler who is also an Olympic silver medalist. I’m proud to play with him again.

“We cannot compete with the younger pairs on the world stage anymore, but it’s all about having fun and giving my best at this age,” he added.

Teo Ee Yi was another high profile shuttler who was due to feature at the Stadium Juara on Wednesday, but the Asian Championships runner-up was forced to concede a walkover after his partner Lim Tze Jian failed to show up.

Gandingan Goh V Shem-Azriyn Ayub mengalahkan Chang Yee Jun-Ooi Yi Keat 21-12,21-11 dan mara ke R16Azriyn melihay kejohanan badminton kebangsaan ini sebagai medan pemanas badan terbaik menjelang saingan Terbuka Korea bersama Tan Wee Kiong@ASTROARENA pic.twitter.com/TvgfDs7A5k
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