Mangaluru: It was a day when journalists, reporters, photographers, cameramen and others in the field of media, kept aside their pens and note books, their cameras and laptops, and just decided to engage themselves strictly in some sports and games activities. Dakshina Kannada Working Journalists’ Union (DKWJU) in association with the Mangaluru Press Club organized its fourth annual sports meet for the scribes so that they could unleash their hidden sports talents, at the St Aloysius Gonzaga Grounds, here on April 19.
DKWJU president, Jagannath Shetty Bala welcomed the gathering. The sports meet was inaugurated by the Minister of State for Youth Empowerment, Sports and Fisheries, K Abhayachandra Jain, by lighting the traditional lamp along with other dignitaries on the dais.
Addressing the gathering, Abhaychandra Jain said that sports has an important role in the physical and mental growth of a person. “It will also help to reduce stress. Sports also keeps the body healthy and fit. People in the media, work round the clock to provide news. For the media, there is no holiday. But today, all the journalists have come together for this sports meet. Such sports meet brings all the journalists together where their talents in sports can also be showcased.”
Jain further said that in the state more than 200 physical training teachers will be appointed to manage the district sports grounds. “In the state, there are 30 district and 175 taluk sports grounds. Appointing physical training teachers to manage the grounds will bringing new changes.” He also said that health is very important in everyone’s life and to retain good health, we need to exercise regularly.
Three achievers were honoured on the occasion for their achievements in sports.
Speaking on the occasion, Police Commissioner Murugan said that every year, the DKWJU organizes the sports meet which is a very good sign to keep fit. “In getting any information, journalists are quicker than the police. In Dakshina Kannda, district politicians and journalists are performing their duty very well.” While concluding, he said that winning and losing is part of the competition. “Let all the participants compete in sportive spirit.” He wished good luck to the participants.
Senior Journalist Manohar Prasad also spoke on the occasion. The sports meet was declared open by Abhaychandra Jain by releasing balloons. Various competitions like ice cream eating, Banana eating, slow bike race, musical chair, three legs race, cricket and running race were held.
Prizes to the winners in all the events will be distributed during the annual day of DKWJU (Press Club Day). All the journalists had a wonderful day with sports and fun, participating in the events and winning prizes.
Harish Rai compered the programme. Press Club president Ramakrishna delivered the vote of thanks.