Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (SB)
Mangaluru, Dec 15: Deputy commissioner Sasikanth Senthil inaugurated the first- ever national men's Kabaddi championship for physically challenged at Mangala Stadium here on Saturday, December 15,
Maatru Pratishtana in association with Karnataka State Physically Challenged Kabaddi Association has organized this event.
MLC Ivan D Souza, former MLA J R Lobo, Managing director of Daijiworld Media Walter Nandalike, , chairman of Indian Red Cross Society Basur Rajeev Shetty, chairman of district Red Cross Society C A Shantharam Shetty, deputy director of youth empowerment and sports Pradeep D’Souza , Founder managing trustee of Maatru Pratishtana M R Mahesh Gowda were present as guests of honour.
In his inaugural speech Sasikanth Senthil said “We people of Mangaluru are happy to organize this special event. Sports events bring unity in people. Such events enhance the happiness and joy. I am happy that the first ever national level Kabaddi championship for physically challenged is organized in our city. I am congratulating the Matru Pratishtana for their efforts. I wish all the best to organizers, participants and spectators,”
In his speech JR Lobo said “I congratulate Denzil and his team for bringing this tournament in our city. Organizing a national level tournament is really a challenge. I appreciate his leadership and organizing skills. Also we must appreciate the sponsors and supporters of this championship. Mangaluru is known for hospitality. I wish all players who have come from various parts of the country, a pleasant stay and wonderful days in Mangaluru.”
Wishing the players, Ivan D’Souza said, “Karnataka is known for special talents in sports. Now we have achieved another crown as the first host state of the National level Kabaddi championship for physically challenged. I congratulate the organizers for their wonderful thought. I wish all the best for all teams.”
Basur Rajeev Shetty introduced the players. Denzil Fernandes welcomed the dignitaries and players.
12 states are participating in the championship.
The prize distribution ceremony will be held on December 16. MLA Vedavyas Kamath, ZP CEO Dr Selvamani, C A Shantharam Shetty, MLA Dr Bharath Y Shetty,NSS national awardee Dr Gananath Shetty Yakkar, senior civil judge of district legal services authority Mallanna Gowda Patil and deputy director youth empowerment and sports Pradeep D’Souza will grace the occasion.