IMPHAL, July 27: With five sportspersons from the state all set to enter competition at the London Olympics starting from tomorrow, the Khuman Lampak sports complex came alive with a mass prayer and bless wishing rally today.
The mass prayer was organized by the Manipur Olympic Association and the Youth Affairs and Sports department at a temple near the Olympic Bhawan inside the sports complex.
Players, officials and coaches of YAS and MOA members lighted candles praying for the success of the five Olympians from the state.
Meanwhile, the Sports Authority of India, NERC Imphal also organized a ‘bless wishing rally’ for the success of the five state sportspersons.
The rally was taken part by more than 500 players, coaches and staffs of different SAI units of the state.
The rally started from SAI SAG centre Khuman Lampak and passed through Minuthong, New Checkon, Palace Gate, Sanjenthong, Kalimai Mamang, Keishampat junction, Wahengbam Leikai, Thong Nambolbi, BT Rod, Kanglapat, Khuyathong, Lilashing Khongnang Khong, Chingmeirong DIngku road and after passing through the Khuman Lampak ended where it had started from.
The rally ended with a one minute silence observed by the players praying for the success of the five sportspersons.
Speaking to media persons, YAS Director, H Deleep Singh said that the fact that five sportspersons from the state are participating at the London Olympics is a great achievement for the whole state and as such we should all pray for the five to be successful and bring glory not only to the state but to the whole country.
SAI, NERC Imphal Director, Francis Marwin said to produce five Olympians from such a tiny state like Manipur is very much commendable. He also wished that the state may produce many more Olympians next time.
SAI SAG Centre Khuman Lampak in charge, L Ibomcha who is also the boxing coach said qualifying for the Olympics is not an easy task and we should laud them for their effort and success.
He also expressed his desire to see the sportspersons of the state to work hard and follow in the footsteps of the five. He further appealed to the sportspersons to respect their coaches and to maintain discipline.
