Pics: Abhijith N Kolpe
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Nov 25: The annual sports day 2024 of Lourdes Central School, Bejai, was held on Monday, November 25, at Mangala Stadium.
The inaugural ceremony featured Ronald Silvan D’Souza, founder and executive director of Leksa Lighting Technologies Private Limited, as the chief guest. Other dignitaries present included manager of Lourdes Central School, Dr John Baptist Saldanha, principal Fr Johnson L. Sequeira, vice principal Belita Mascarenhas, Anitha Thomas, Bejai Parish Pastoral Parishad vice president Ashok Pinto, and secretary Cynthia Avitha Pinto.
The event began with a colourful march-past by students, followed by the hoisting of the flag by the dignitaries. In a symbolic gesture, students who had represented the school at national-level sports events were handed the burning torch by the chief guest. Ronald Silvan D’Souza then released balloons and officially declared the sports meet open.
Addressing the gathering, Ronald Silvan D’Souza remarked, “This is the best sports meet I have ever attended. You are fortunate to have excellent facilities, unlike my childhood when such opportunities were limited. Make the most of this chance at Lourdes. Be all-rounders, as only academics won’t take you far. Always have a never-give-up attitude.”
Manager Dr J B Saldanha shared his thoughts, saying, “Sports day is a thrilling experience, starting with early morning preparations. Two days ago, we celebrated our annual day, which was unique as it involved all students, leading to great success. I urge parents to encourage their children to prioritize physical activities and spend at least an hour daily on the ground or playing with others to maintain good health.”
The gathering was welcomed by Fr Arun Joseph, while the convener of the sports meet, Vishwanath Devadiga, proposed the vote of thanks.