24th Australia Sikh Games start with opening remarks by Premier of South Australia
Thursday, April 21, 2011
The 24th Sikh Games of Australia being organised by Austraia Sikh Game Association started here Friday with jubilation. The games were declared open by premier of South Australia state Mike Rann who was accompanied by Lieutenant Governor Hieu Van.
Mohanvir Singh President of the Sikh Games Association welcomed the Chief Guest an other dignatories including Pritpal Singh coordinator of American Gurdwara Parbhandak Committee and Mohinder Singh President of Australia Sikh Gurdwara Committee.
The Sikh Games held every year in different cities in Australia has special attraction since only the Sikh players are allowed to particiapte. The games allotted through bid would be played at Sydney next year with the cooperation of local Gurdwara management committee, as per the set practice
The Premier of South Australia louded the Sikh Games and role of Sikhs in all spheres. He said that Sikhs arrived in Australia 150 years ago and they have made a respectable place for themselves. He said that Sikhs have played significant role in World war II. He also said that he was aware of problems faced by students coming to from India and assured that all issues would be taken care of.
The Sikhs Games are holding competition in Kabaddi, Hockey, Basketball, Soccer, Tug of War, Tennis and Badminton. Before the Games start, the players presented March Past in front of Premier of South Australia followed by national anthem of Australia and Sikh anthem 'Deh Shiva Bar Mohe eho".
