GCU sports day: Gymnasts steal the show

Guests impressed with athletes at the closing day of the annual event.

LAHORE:

Government College University (GCU) organised its 111th Annual Sports day followed by a prize distribution ceremony on Sunday. Education Minister Mujtaba Shujaur Rehman was the chief guest for the occasion.

Rehman congratulated the participants and shared his views on the education situation.

“The government is doing all it can to ensure that Pakistan’s literacy rate improves in the coming years. The government is devoting its energy towards promoting free primary and secondary education,” he said.

The events was organised at the GCU Oval. A gymnastic display stole the show. The spectators applauded the formations and back flips performed by the contestants. GCU’s champion gymnast Muhammad Khaleel Mir said “I am proud to be able to show others our team routine. I am glad the crowd appreciated it.”

International sports judge Shahjehan Anwar said “gymnastics is the mother of all sport. It improves a person’s reflexes. Cricketers should really learn gymnastics. It should be mandatory for wicket keepers like Kamran Akmal.”GCU sports director Khadim Ali Khan said “Ravians have been trailblazers in Pakistani sport regardless of the fact that sports are not promoted effectively in schools and many institutions lack indoor athletic facilities auditoriums, sport courts and swimming pools.” Chief Guest Mujtaba Shujaur Rehman said “numerous problems can be resolved by putting more funds into the education sector. Endowment funds for students are increasing and so are the number of students but we need to ensure that these kids receive a well rounded education that includes attention towards sports.”

Vice Chancellor Prof Ikramul Haq spoke at the closing ceremony “we wish to keep the spirit of sports alive at GCU. This year our efforts have been very productive and all departments have taken active part in making this event a success.”

The day ended with an award distribution ceremony.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 21^st, 2011.