by Gasper Almeida, Kuwait
Kuwait, Oct 22: The 11th CRY (Child Relief and You) cricket tournament for children will be held at the Ahmadi Hockey Grounds on Friday, 7th November 2008 starting at 6:30 a.m.
The one day tournament, called 'CRYcket 2008', is now a very popular annual family event where 24 teams play 30 softball games in two age categories while spectators, parents, relatives and well-wishers enjoy a carnival atmosphere. Twelve teams each are set to participate in the Under 12 and Under 14 divisions initially in four groups in round robin fashion leading to four winners who will clash in the playoffs. As usual two grounds will be used and the games will be played simultaneously in the senior and junior divisions. The event is hosted by the Friends of CRY Club (FOCC) - Kuwait supported by the Ahmadi Cricket and Hockey Committees.
The last day for receipt of entries is Thursday, 30 October 2008. The game format will be seven overs a side with batsmen requiring to retire at the personal score of 18. Unlimited substitution will be allowed and teams have been encouraged to turn up in coloured kits to add to the picturesque Ahmadi setting. Apart from the winners' trophies, medals and certificates will be given to each player. Since 2005, CRYcket has received recognition from the Kuwait Cricket Association (KCA) as a valuable grassroots activity which augers well for the development of cricket in Kuwait. Experienced umpires will control the games assisted by official scorers. The teams will play in recognition of a much felt need among less fortunate children in the subcontinent and will carry the message of compassion towards them. They will spread awareness of the work done by CRY, an international organization, that believes that every child is entitled to basic rights of survival, protection, development and participation.
To add to the spirit of celebration of childhood there will be delicious snacks and drinks available throughout the day, while drawing and essay competitions, bingo, raffle draws and ROLO, the popular cricket spectator game will keep you excited every minute. 'Buy for CRY' a stall of used books, videos, CDs, toys and household effects will give you a quick bargain.
An FOCC spokesperson has declared that it will be a memorable day at Ahmadi on Friday and if their slogan is anything to go by, then "Everybody Wins!". FOCC members can be contacted at 6204295/9578073/9300257/ 7337846/9542107/9364073/6100318/7337846 or email focckwt@yahoo.com or visit www.focckwt.org