MUSCAT : Indian School Muscat was a hub of athletic prowess, hosting the CBSE Oman Cluster Athletics Meet 2025 and uniting athletes from Indian Schools across Oman in a thrilling display of discipline and determination. The meet was a testament to the pursuit of excellence, with competitors pushing their limits in a variety of track and field disciplines.

The meet, which featured participants from 16 different Indian schools from Oman, kicked off with a vibrant opening ceremony on Friday, 22^nd August 2025. The event was graced by the presence of Shri Ambalavanan A.P., Finance Director of the Board of Directors, Indian Schools in Oman, who served as the Chief Guest. Esteemed directors of the Board of Directors, President, Honourable members of the Indian School Muscat Management Committee, Principals of various Indian Schools in Oman, dignitaries, Principal Mr. Rakesh Joshi, Senior Vice-Principal Administration, Vice-Principals and Assistant Vice-Principals of various sections, parents, coaches from different Indian schools and the athletes from all Indian schools in Oman joined in the proceedings.

The ceremony began with a spirited march past of all participating schools, followed by the hoisting of the flag and the oath, led by the Sports Coordinator Christine Danthi.

A total of 64 individual events were contested across the different age groups in the category, Under 14, Under 17 and Under 19, for both boys and girls. These included sprints, middle-distance races, jumps, and a variety of throws, showcasing a wide range of athletic skills. The day also featured 10 exciting relay races, where teams combined their speed and strategy for a chance at glory.

The throwing events, which took place on 21^st August on the hallowed grounds of Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex, were a particular highlight. The sheer power and technique on display were captivating. Athletes from all age categories showcased their strength in the Shot Put and Discus Throw. Additionally, the thrilling Javelin Throw for the senior categories of both boys and girls further amplified the level of competition.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Guest Shri Ambalavanan A.P, commended the young athletes for their resilience and fair play, observing that such qualities would guide them far beyond the sporting sphere.

The closing ceremony on 23^rd August marked the culmination of the athletic meet and was attended by esteemed guests. Brigadier (R) Said Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al-Hajri, President Athletic Federation of Oman, was the Chief Guest, while Mr. Harshendu Shah, Vice-Chairman of the Board of Directors, Indian Schools in Oman, was the Guest of Honor.

The evening unfolded with a breathtaking display of athleticism, highlighted by the spectacular 100m track events in the Under-14, Under-17 and Under-19 boys’ and girls’ categories. These exhilarating races, marked by remarkable speed and precision served as a resplendent finale to the two-day sporting extravaganza.

Addressing the young athletes, the Chief Guest, Brigadier (R) Said Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al-Hajri lauded the young athletes for displaying exemplary sportsmanship and team spirit throughout the meet. He remarked that every participant is a true winner for they had shown not only physical strength but also values of discipline and perseverance that sports nurture. The Guest of Honour, Mr. Harshendu Shah voiced his joy in beholding the vibrant display of talent and determination at the meet.

The highlight of the valedictory ceremony was the distribution of medals, certificates, and trophies to the winners by the Chief Guest. The host institution, Indian School Muscat, emerged triumphant, claiming the coveted Overall Athletic Championship Trophy at the prestigious CBSE Oman Cluster Meet 2025. The Overall Athletic Runners Up Trophy was bagged by Indian School Salalah. The awards were presented in the following categories- Under 14, Under 17, Under 19 boys and girls. Indian School Muscat clinched victory in five categories. The athletes who won first and second positions in the Cluster Meet 2025 will be representing their respective schools in the CBSE National Athletic Meet which will be held in Sant Atulanand Convent School, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India from 9^th to 13^th September 2025.

A significant moment in the ceremony was the ceremonial lowering of the flag, which signified the official end of the Cluster Athletic Meet. The flag was respectfully lowered by the Athletic Coach by Mr. Vijayaraja Kumar and Mr. Johns Abraham together with the other coaches. It was handed over by the Chief Guest to the Principal who in turn handed it over to Mr. Harikrishna Pillai, Head of the Department, Physical Education, for safekeeping till the next CBSE Oman Cluster Athletic Meet 2026.

Sports Coordinator Ansh Chintankumar Joshi proposed the Vote of Thanks. Participants, guests, and officials left with fond memories and a sense of achievement, looking forward to future events with renewed enthusiasm.