W

hile looking ahead to retirement, veteran shuttler Chandra Wijaya is helping badminton thrive by holding a unique competition.

The Chandra Wijaya International Men's Doubles Badminton Championship claims to be the first ever competition of only men's doubles.

The Rp 200 million championship features three group events - ages 16, 19 and adults - and will run from April 29 to May 2 at the Asia-Afrika Badminton Stadium in Senayan, Jakarta.

"Those are the crucial ages for shuttlers to hone their skills in tournaments," Chandra said Wednesday, referring the youth categories.

"My concern is regeneration in our men's doubles," said the 2000 Sydney Olympics gold medalist.

Indonesia may have produced world class pairs, but the country currently depends only on world No. 1 Markis Kido and Hendra Setiawan.

"Hopefully, the event will be included in the WBF *World Badminton Federation* calendar next year and can be on a par with other Super Series events," said Chandra, who has played pro for the last two years for Japan's Tonami Badminton Club.

Taking part will be singles ace Taufik Hidayat, who will partner with Flandy Limpele. Other pairs are Alvent Yulianto/Hendra A.G. and Joko Riyadi/Luluk Hadiyanto.

Players will also come from Japan, Malaysia, Singapore and India.

"I hope this event will also raise the prestige of the men's doubles, which is still regarded below the singles," said the 33-year-old.

Chandra also plans to build a badminton training center in Serpong, Tangerang.