The Badminton Europe Circuit kicks back into action after the 2012 Polish Open in Lubin with a trip to Presov for the Victor Slovak Open. Many of Europe’s young hopefuls have made the trip to Presov in an effort to gain the world ranking points that are on offer for this Future Series rated tournament. But also for the home players, the biggest badminton tournament in Slovakia offers perfect stage to present their skills to the local crowd.

In the women’s singles, Alesia Zaitsava of Belarus is the top seed but local star Monika Fasungova (pictured) wants to use her home tournament to get a perfect start in the new season. The Slovakian top female shuttler and Olympic Games participant is the second seed in Presov and is likely to meet Ukrainian Natalya Voytsekh the semi final.

Top seed and main contender for the men’s singles event is Iztok Utrosa. But the 24-year old from Slovenia will have tough opponents which include Maxime Michel (France), Henrik Toth (Hungary, local Michal Matejka  or the young Austrian Matthias Almer.

Alongside the tournament, the Slovak Badminton Federation have its 50 year celebration. Therefore BEC President Poul-Erik Høyer, BWF Vice President Torsten Berg and BEC General Secretary Brian Agerbak are in Presov to officially congratulate one of Badminton Europe's Member Association.

The Victor Slovak Open commencing with qualification rounds today.

CLICK HERE for the draws of the tournament.

Photo by BadmintonPhoto