Dubai: Scores Participate in Spectacular 'Konkan Sports Meet'
by Ramcy Fernandes
Daijiworld Media Network - Dubai
Dubai, Nov 19: Athletes and sports enthusiasts from the Konkani community in the UAE had the rare opportunity on Nov 20, 2009 at Police Ground Dubai to partake, and watch the spectacular track & field events and other games.
'Konkan Sports - 2009' organized by Dubai's ace organizers Mangalore Konkans Dubai, turned out to be the best sportive day both for the young and old. The ground facilities were superb as this very same venue has been used for hosting international events in the past.
The event was officially inaugurated at 9.00am. KC Kumar, Convener of ICWC Dubai was the chief guest. Sonali Fernandes, who bought laurels to the community through her athletic abilities by winning several state and national level medals in India, was the key torch bearer, followed by other six flag bearers who have excelled in different track & field events. Mangalore Konkans' throw- ball team followed the torch bearers, and the athletes.
Albert Rodrigues, convener of Konkan Sports Meet - 2009 gave a brief account of the event and read out the rules and regulations and other related information. President Santhosh Nazareth welcomed the participants and the crowd.
Manohar Pais commanded the day by handling the entire event and the prize distribution. His interesting information on track & field world records made the event more interesting. He was supported by Vanessa Peris, Valerian Peris and Rajesh Sequeira on the field.
The events were open to different age groups from 5-7 years, 8-10 years, 11-14 years, 15-18 years, 19-27 years, 28-35 years, 36-45 years, 46 - 55 years, and 56 years and above.
The disciplines included 25 to 1000 meter races suiting the different age groups, Long jump, Shot-put, Lemon & Spoon race, ring wicket, etc.
The highlight of the day was the tug –of- war event where many teams participated with great Spirit and enthusiasm.
The day- long event concluded around 6.00 pm.
Roney D'Cunha proposed vote of thanks. All Mangalore Konkans members joined in as volunteers. Their spirited involvement was the key to success the of the event.
Lunch was served to all participants as well as spectators along with several freebie food, drink and other items.
The professionally organized event saw to the meticulous planning including a standby ambulance to help in case of an emergency.