Awards & Recognition News
A Legacy in Motion: The Story of Mrs. Mar Kwok Lin Ying
Mar062026
At ninety five years young, Mrs. Mar Kwok Lin Ying is far more than a member of our community; she is a living testament to the transformative power of sport and social connection. Her journey began in 1930 in Guangdong Province, China, where she first displayed the academic and athletic drive that would define her life. In 1975, seeking a stable future for her family amidst student riots in the Philippines, she immigrated to Canada with her children who were already teenagers at the time. Her transition to a new culture was marked by the same grit we see on the courts today, famously teaching herself to type business orders letter by letter using an English dictionary to support the family.
That same relentless spirit led her to pick up a badminton racket in her fifties, beginning a four decade passion for the game. Today, Mrs. Mar is a fixture at the Vancouver Racquet Club, arriving three to four times a week at eight am sharp. While her grandson now helps with her commute, she remains fiercely independent, living alone without hired help and maintaining the sharp cognition required to keep a perfect score for every match she plays. When asked about her radiant health, she credits badminton for keeping her blood flowing well and her body healthy, but she places equal importance on her community of friends. She firmly believes that seeing her friends multiple times a week is what truly keeps her happy and youthful.
Her competitive legacy is just as impressive as her stamina. A former women’s doubles tournament winner at the Vancouver Lawn and Tennis Club, she still possesses the energy to play five consecutive games without needing to rest. Beyond the scores, she is the matriarch of a vast family including eleven children, thirty six grandchildren, and over forty great grandchildren. Her generosity is legendary, as she was the very first person to donate toward the club’s defibrillator and remains a dedicated supporter of all member functions. Living by her favorite motto that love is patient and kind, Mrs. Mar continues to inspire us all, proving that the secret to a long life is a heart full of grace and a consistent love for the game.
Mrs. Mar and her eldest son Keng Sun Mar
Nominate a Living Legend
The story of Mrs. Mar reminds us that our courts are filled with remarkable individuals who define the spirit of Badminton BC. We are looking to honor other members who have made a lasting impact through their long term dedication, their resilience in the face of challenges, or their exceptional sportsmanship.
If you know someone who represents the heart of our community, we invite you to nominate them for a future feature. Please email members@badmintonbc.com with a summary of why your nominee should be recognized. While we may not be able to feature every nomination, we are eager to celebrate the people who make our sport so special.