MUSCAT : Indian School Bousher celebrated its much-anticipated UDAAN – Annual Sports Day for  students of Grades 6-12 on 29^th August 2024, coinciding with National Sports Day,  observed in remembrance of the legendary hockey player Major Dhyan Chand. The day marked a tribute to his contributions to Indian sports and aimed to foster a spirit of  athleticism, fitness, and teamwork among students. 

The event commenced with the arrival and warm reception of the Chief Guest, Mr. Ismail  Al Ajmi, National Football Team Player of the Sultanate of Oman and the Guest of Honour, Ms Priyanka Edna Mendonca, the captain of the Oman Women’s Cricket Team, along with  the esteemed members of the School Management Committee, Dr Sayed Fazlur Rehman,  Convenor, Mr Rushit Sanghvi, Chairperson, Sports and Co-curricular Sub-committee, Ms  Soumya Parameswaran, Deputy Chairperson, Sports and Co-curricular Sub-committee,  Mr Shanmugam Purushottaman, Deputy chairperson, Purchase Sub- Committee. The  Principal, Mr Prabakaran P led the dignitaries for the Troop Inspection, setting the tone  for a disciplined and energetic day. 

Priyanka Edna Mendonca 

Both the Indian and Omani National Anthems were played, symbolizing unity and respect.  Master Yohaan Chacko Peter, Sports Secretary (Middle School), echoed the significance  of National Sports Day and warmly welcomed the dignitaries of the event through his  Welcome Address. 

The March Past of the four house teams, accompanied by the athletic Oath, was a sight  to behold, followed by a thrilling Band Display. The Chief Guest then officially declared  the Sports Day open, signaling the start of various sporting events. 

Races like the 100m sprints for boys and girls across Grades 6-12 drew much excitement.  In his address, the Chief Guest praised the school’s initiative to celebrate the Sports Day  to instill the values of discipline, perseverance, and teamwork among students.  

The event also featured impressive Mass PT displays, a showcase of strength and  coordination, followed by 200m races and the much-anticipated 4x100m relay events.  Parents and staff joined in the fun with special games, contributing to the celebratory atmosphere. 

The prize distribution ceremony honoured the outstanding athletes, with winners  receiving medals and certificates for their exceptional performances in various events.  Their dedication and hard work were celebrated, inspiring their peers to strive for  excellence both on and off the field. 

The announcement of the Individual Championships, presented by the Chief Guest and  the Guest of Honour, was a moment of pride for the winners. The Individual  Championships for UDAAN 2024-25 showcased outstanding performances from students  across Grades 6 to 12. In the Boys category for Grades 6 & 7, Mohammed Omar Khot  from Grade 7 emerged victorious, while Mokshita Aswath from Grade 7 claimed the title  in the Girls category. Devadutt Nigesh from Grade 9 triumphed in the Boys category for  Grades 8 & 9, with Riddhima from Grade 9 taking the Girls title. Among the senior  students, Ethan John from Grade 10 and Richa Aji from Grade 11 were crowned  champions in the Boys and Girls categories, respectively, for Grades 10, 11, and 12. Their  dedication and athletic prowess were truly inspiring. 

The event concluded with a grand light mass drill, titled Radiance in Rhythm, leaving a  lasting impression of unity and coordination. The Vote of Thanks by the Vice Principal,  Ms Ambika Padmanabhan, followed by the lowering of the school flag and the School  Anthem, marked the end of a successful and memorable day. 

Through UDAAN 2024, Indian School Bousher not only celebrated its students’ athletic  talents but also paid tribute to one of India’s greatest sports legends, ensuring that the  values of perseverance, teamwork, and excellence continue to thrive.