Media Release
Mangaluru, Nov 16: The ICYM's Neermarga unit organized ‘Gadyanth Udkana’, a rural sports event on November 13, in which the parishioners participated with great enthusiasm and fanfare.
The sprawling paddy field at Kambla, Merlapadav wore a festive look with bunting decorations. The inaugural function was presided over by Fr Anil D'Mello, parish priest. Ravi Saldanha, vice president, Parish Pastoral Council, Jelroy, ICYM president, Sandeep Misquith, ICYM animator were present on the dais.
The event commenced with a march past depicting the theme, ‘The Present World Situation’ which was a thrilling sight for the spectators as the proud four teams marched to the music played fostering the qualities of teamwork, leadership, concentration and hard work. The youth then raised their hearts and minds to the Almighty God through a Prayer Song. Rev Fr Anil D Mello in his edifying message explained the methods to train one’s mind to develop self-control. He further spotlighted the meaning, traits and the importance of good sportsmanship through Bible Citation. He also expressed his best wishes to the participants competing in different events.
The participants then raised their hands and voiced in unison the oath administered by Rovin, sports secretary, promising to take part in different events honestly.
Children, men, women , youth and even the elderly participated ward-wise with great determination and eagerness in various events such as Bombing the City Game with a twist, Running Race, Tug of War, 3-Legged Race, Balancing Cups Game, Blind Throw, Relay Race, Reverse Running, Egg Race, Pulling the Arecanut Leaf and Balloon Throw. Derick Machado compered the Inaugural ceremony, Jelroy Vas welcomed the gathering and Melvita proposed a vote of thanks.
The paddy field games came to an end with the valedictory ceremony Fr Anil D Mello, parish priest, in his inspirational speech congratulated the ICYM office bearers for organizing a fun-filled day for the parishioners with refreshing and revitalizing games. He appreciated and thanked the sponsors and Walter Saldanha and his Family for lending the paddy field for conducting the games. He esteemed the sincerity and dedication of the participants for giving their best in all the events.
Anil John Sequeira, president, ICYM, Mangalore Diocese, Prajwal Lopez, Asian MIJARC chairperson for Food Sovereignty Commission, Terrence Crasta, regional vice president, ICYM, City Deanery president Nisha D'Souza, Meldina D'Souza, liturgy secretary, city deanery and Rachael Pinto, sports secretary, city deanery graced the occasion.
The paddy field was filled with cheer and excitement as each event result was announced by Oscheal and Rovin. Fr Anil D'Mello, Ravi Saldanha and Prakash Pereira, vice president and secretary of Parish Pastoral Council, Br Rakesh and Herick Saldanha awarded the victors with trophies. Lastly, a rain dance was also performed in the slushy waters of the fields that was overwhelming and awesome.
Ashton D'Souza compered the valedictory ceremony.