The Calcutta Club turned into a true sports enthusiast’s heaven from June 2 to 11 with the second season of Sports Carnival in association with The Telegraph. The grounds, which were once a tranquil paradise, were filled with an electric intensity as competitors from many disciplines displayed their talent, tenacity, and unrelenting competitive spirit. The event provided a variety of fascinating sports competitions, from age-old favourites to brand-new disciplines like cricket, football, badminton, table tennis, lawn tennis, rummy, darts, bridge, swimming and many more.
Commenting on the success of the carnival, Snehasish Bhowmick, chairman, sports, said, “This Sports Carnival marks the second edition of the event, which started last year at our club. We have a wide array of sports activities available, but this particular event focuses on team-based competitions. All disciplines are overseen by a team of organisers. A total of 174 participants were divided into eight teams, and they competed in various games within our club premises. The games included lawn tennis, table tennis, badminton, darts, chess, football, cricket, swimming, billiards, rummy, and bridge. In total, 13 to 14 games were played throughout the duration of the carnival. Today, we have reached the final day of this exciting program, and we are pleased to announce that it has been a tremendous success. Comparing it to last year’s event, we have witnessed significant growth and improvement.”
The inaugural event saw a dance drama presented by members of the club. It was directed by Tuktuki Dutta on the theme of women’s empowerment through sports.
A band performance was also part of the inaugural event.
Team members of Cal C Royale Strikers, Calcutta Club Dynamos, Wesco Warriors, IC Mavericks, CC Power Rangers, CC Regal Eagles, T&A Club Formidables and Team Blue Missile pose with Snehashis Bhaumik, chairman, sports.
Snehasis Bhowmick (in yellow T-shirt) handed over a cheque for Rs 5 lakh to Kumar Shankar Dutta, chairman, finance, for infrastructural development of sports in the club.
On the concluding day of Calcutta Club Sports Carnival, veteran footballer Shyam Thapa was the chief guest. He infused the occasion with an air of enthusiasm and motivation and inaugurated the floodlights of the tennis court of the club. “Today, as a 75-year-old individual, I can attest to the benefits of physical fitness and exercise. It is essential to prioritise our health and well-being, even as we enjoy various activities. I understand the concerns surrounding our children’s future, and that is why I constantly advocate for their well-being. While it is important to have fun, we must also guide our children towards a brighter future. Encouraging them to pursue sports and enrolling them in coaching centres for various games, such as tennis, football, and other popular sports, can go a long way in shaping their lives positively,” said Thapa trying his hands at tennis.
The Regal Eagles bagged the first place, bringing the Calcutta Club Sports Carnival to its apex as they did so, leaving a path of breathtaking performances in its wake. Under the able management of Somdeb Chanda and Sunando Mullick, the squad displayed unyielding tenacity, remarkable talent, and a fierce desire to win. Their rigorous planning, wise investments, and unrelenting drive to excel were all clear indications of their commitment to the team’s success.
Pictures: Pabitra Das