“Sports teaches you character, it teaches you to play by the rules, it teaches you to know what it feels like to win and lose – it teaches you about life.” – Billie Jean King
The sun’s rays danced playfully across the fields, igniting the passion within every participant. The infectious energy of Sports Fiesta ’24 spread like wildfire, engulfing all who dared to step foot onto the hallowed ground. It’s a gathering of souls united by a shared love for competition, teamwork, and the thrill of the game.
The project Sports Fiesta’24 is an initiative by the Sports and Recreational Activities Avenue of the Rotaract Club of the University of Sri Jayawardenepura which was held on the 14th of January 2024 at the University grounds by fostering social interactions, strengthening fellowship, and providing a platform for talent showcase and improvement. This event goes beyond a mere competition as it became a catalyst for personal and collective growth. Through the games aimed at enhancing interpersonal skills, promoting sportsmanship qualities, and cultivating leadership and teamwork, Sports Fiesta ’23 emerged as a transformative journey where participants not only excel in their athletic pursuits but also emerge as better individuals. To motivate athletes to strive for excellence and become the best versions of themselves, Sports Fiesta ’23 became more than just an event—it turned into a beacon of inspiration and aspiration for all involved.
The event was promised to be an exhilarating official sports competition of the Rotaract club with the participation of Rotaractors and non-Rotaractors and the organizing committee. The event was set to take place on the 14th of January,2024 from 8am to 3pm at the University Grounds and the stage was set for a day of spirited competition. The event commenced with the warm welcome speech of the Project Chairperson Nithara Dias, setting the tone for a memorable occasion filled with camaraderie and sportsmanship.
The vibrant beat of energetic music reverberated across the University Grounds as the competitions started with an invigorating Zumba session, setting the perfect tone for the day ahead. The session was led by three organizing committee members. The rhythmic movements and infectious energy of Zumba got everyone on their feet, shaking off any lingering traces of morning drowsiness. All the participants lined up on the grounds, forming colorful clusters according to their designated teams. Each team was adorned with a unique team color, adding a splash of vibrancy to the proceedings. With bodies warmed up and spirits soaring, the ground was set to unfold range of competitions and fun games.
First up, the swimming competition. Waves of determination rippled across the pool as competitors sliced through the water, each stroke propelling them closer to victory. Cheers erupted with each lap completed, echoing against the walls of the poolside. Then, the basketball court became a battleground of agility and skill as the next game was three by three basketball game. On one side of the court, one team stood tall and their eyes gleaming with determination as they strategized their plays and coordinated their movements with precision. Meanwhile, on the opposing teams were forced to be reckoned with the fiery passion for the game. As the game progressed, the tension mounted, and the stakes grew ever higher.
But the challenge didn’t end there. The obstacle race beckoned the brave and the bold. There were three obstacle races organized, namely; hurdle race,sac race and human wheelbarrow. Participants navigated through a maze of hurdles pushing themselves to the limit in a test of speed and agility. Next, everyone gathered on the lush green field for a friendly cricket match, preparing to showcase their skills in a spirited display of sportsmanship and camaraderie.
Next, all the eyes turned to the most anticipated moment of the day which was the announcement of the winning team. All participants waited eagerly to hear their team’s name called out in victory. Surronding cheers and applause, the winning team emerged. Their faces were illuminated with joy and pride as they stepped forward to claim their reward. The directors and the project chairperson presented gifts as tokens of appreciation for their outstanding performance and unwavering dedication throughout the day. Afterwards, the official group photo was captured expressing a snapshot of unity and achievement after the vote of thanks delivered by the project secretary, Nethma Abeysinghe.
In the fading light of a day filled with laughter, competition, and camaraderie, we draw the curtains of an unforgettable chapter – Sports Fiesta,2024.
May the spirit of camaraderie and the joy of competition continue to inspire and unite us all!
Written by: Rtr.
Graphic design by: Rtr. Akila Weerasuriya
0 Comments