CHANDIGARH, OCT 7 : The inaugural Mini Olympics 2011, a brain child of Chandigarh schools under the patronage of Chandigarh Olympic Association, got off to a spectacular start at the Sector 17 Football Ground. More than 3000 players from Chandigarh, Panchkula and Mohali are taking part in 16 sports disciplines.
Mrs Madhu Bansal, wife of Union Cabinet Minister Pawan Kumar Bansal, inaugurated the three-day schools mega event amidst a riot of colour. She also took saluate in the march past by students from 57 private schools and 17 government school from tricity.
Speaking on the occasion, Mrs Bansal was of the view that more sports infrastructure is needed for the players to hon their skills. “A number of parks have been developed in the city for the geneal public. However, more exclusive facilities for training-cum-competitions can be developed in schools. Mr Pawan Bansal is discussing a proposal with the Centre for maximum utilisation of land available in schools in Chandigarh.”
“I am glad to see a large number of girls taking part in the Mini Olympics. I am happy to be among you. Though I had left studies for more than 38 years, today I can recalled my childhood. I was like you.,” said Mrs Madhu Bansal. She congratulated the organising committee members for hosting the prestigious meet.
Earlier, she was given a warm welcome by the organising committee members. Among those present on the occasion were chairman of the Organising Committee Dr MS Malik, IPS (Retd), organising secretary Vikas Dahiya, COA vice-president Jagbir Singh, Dronacharya Desh Prem Azad, Badminton Association of India vice-president TPS Puri. Mrs Madhu Bansal was accompanied by MC Mayor Ravinder Pal Singh and former Chandigarh Mayor HS Lucky. Councillor Devinder Singn Babla was also present on the occasion.
Earlier, Dr MS Malik pointed out the need for more sports infrastructure in the city. He urged Mayor Ravinder Pal Singh and the Chandigarh Administration to set up sports nurseries in all schools and other educational institutions. Nurseries will lead to building a strong base for sportspersons at the grass root level.
International soccer player Anu took the oath on behalf of the participating schools. She also lit the game flame.
The organising committee also presented mementoes to Mrs Madhu Bansal, Mr Ravinder Pal Singh and Mr HS Lucky.