With only four athletes, Bhutan will be the smallest team representing at 2nd South Asian Federation (SAF) Junior Athletics Championships scheduled at Birsa Munda Athletics Championships from November 10-12. Infact, Bhutan and Maldives would be the only two nations with male athletes among the eight participating nations.
As about 220 athletes comprising 145 males and 75 females from India, Afghanistan, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri lanka, Bhutan and Maldives would be contesting this international under 20 years age athletics tournament.
State sports officials on Thursday confirmed that teams of India and Afghanistan would be reaching here by Friday. Remaining teams are expected to reach by Saturday.
“Special food arrangements for players of Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan teams have been made. According to their preference, meal will be served,” sources at sports department said.
The buzz for this game was unveiled on Thursday through a two day road show which would be spreading the message of this mega sports meet among the denizens of Ranchi. Prior to the inauguration of the games on Sunday evening, a torch relay will be organized in the afternoon. Starting from Governor House, it will cover the entire city and end at the stadium.
The athletic events are to be held on November 11 and 12 respectively between 2pm to 5:30pm.
Elaborating further details, State Sports minister Geetashree Oraon said, “Former middle distance sprinter cum renowned athlete of Jharkhand Budhwa Oraon will light the torch of this game. 11 more popular international and national fame players of the state will accompany him. Governor Syed Ahmed and Chief Minister Hemant Soren will be the Chief Guest on the opening ceremony. Union Rural Development minister Jairam Ramesh will be the Chief Guest at the closing ceremony on Tuesday.”
“Indian Idol-1 runner up Amit Sana will be performing at the opening and Daltonganj based singer Meghna will perform at the closing ceremony,” the sports minister added.
Sports authority of Jharkhand has invited legendary athletes Milkha Singh (known as Flying Sikh) and PT Usha as well. “They may come on any day of the game,” said Jharkhand Athletics Association president Madhukant Pathak.
The entire state sports fraternity today tasted the menu which is to be served to the international athletes and out station members coming here. However, the catering people complained the minister of improper water supply and electricity. Taking a safe side, Geetashree told them, “You are hired to fulfill our expectations. It is your responsibility to manage alternate resources.”
Sports Varsity may begin by ‘14
The much-awaited Sports University at Mega Sports Complex is expected to come in form by next session, claims Sports minister Geetashree Oraon.
She said, “We will take a final decision on this university by December, Hopefully, it takes a shape by 2014. Till date it has been ignored due to lack of willingness by the authorities.”