New Delhi, 19 November (HS). The grand inauguration of the Special Olympics Asia Pacific Bocce and Bowling competition took place today at Thyagaraja Sports Complex. This historic event was inaugurated by Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar as the chief guest. He was accomp.ed by Dr. Mansukh L. as a special guest. Mandaviya, Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports and Minister of Labor and Employment were also present. The matches of the competition will start from tomorrow in which bocce matches will be held at Tyagaraja Sports Complex and bowling matches will be held at Zoreco Rcube Monad, Rajouri Garden.
The 12 participating countries entered the opening ceremony with a traditional march-past, where they were given a warm welcome by the audience. After this, the official flag of the Asia Pacific Bocce and Bowling Championship was hoisted and the Flame of Hope was lit by the Indian contingent athletes Nirupam Dey and Shraddha Patel, which will remain lit throughout the event.
Addressing the inaugural ceremony, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar said, “This historic occasion gives a new dimension to the definition of our country’s achievements. Our exceptional athletes are living examples of human potential, showing that nothing is impossible with determination and dedication. You all inspire us with your courage and commitment. Today, India is proud to host prestigious global events such as the Asia Pacific Bocce and Bowling Championships. On this basis, we have taken bold steps to host the 2036 Summer Olympics which is expected to put India at center stage on the global sporting stage. We have full confidence in our vision and hope it will set a new benchmark for generations to come.” Concluding his talk, he said, “Books are also important, sports are also important, life is incomplete without both.”
Special guest Dr. Mansukh L. Mandaviya said, “This is an inspiring day for all of us and it is an honor for us to celebrate the passion, talent and perseverance of these extraordinary athletes. I am happy to announce that the Government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is fully supporting Special Olympics India and ensuring an inclusive sporting environment for athletes of all abilities. The government has strengthened its partnership with Special Olympics India, which includes better resources, facilities and comprehensive training programmes. “I express my heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Mallika Nadda for her inspiring leadership and dedication, who has played a vital role in advancing the mission of Special Olympics in the Asia Pacific region.”
Dr Mallika Nadda, President of Special Olympics India, in her inaugural address said, “We welcome everyone to this wonderful land of India, where every moment is an experience of our warmth and hospitality. It is our honor to host the Asia Pacific Bocce and Bowling Competition. “It is a moment of celebration, unity and inspiration, with athletes from 12 countries representing not only their teams but also the spirit of inclusion, courage and perseverance that Special Olympics embodies.”
Held for the first time in India, this historic competition empowers IDD athletes aged 22 years and above through sports. With the successful launch of this event, New Delhi is taking a leading role in promoting inclusion and being an inspiration for change through the transformative power of sports.
