First Ever InterCity Athletics Meet - KCA UK
The KCA UK InterCity Athletics Meet, held on 1 June 2024 at Cleavly Tracks, Eccles, was a landmark event in the Konkani community, uniting members from various Mangalorean associations across England. This inaugural meet aimed to enhance the physical and community well-being of participants while providing a unique platform to showcase athletic talents across all age groups, marking a historic first for the community.
The event featured a variety of athletic competitions, including sprints, long-distance races, jumping events, shot put, and tug of war. Athletes from different cities engaged in friendly rivalry, demonstrating exceptional skills and sportsmanship.
The event was honoured by the presence of Chief Guests Jackie Fay and Teresa Pepper, Counsellors from Trafford Borough.The day began with a vibrant opening ceremony, which included the lighting of a ceremonial lamp in traditional Indian style by the two chief guests. The ceremony featured a march-past of athletes and a welcoming address from the President. The welcome dance, choreographed by Sonal Mendonca and performed by KCA dancers, culminated in a lively flash mob involving all associations, symbolising unity within the community.
Joseph Sequeira and Anthony Mary served as the official presenters, ensuring the smooth flow of the event. The entire day's food was managed by Jyothi Mendonca and Martin Saldanha, with Ashwan D'Souza preparing noodles for the children. Field marshals Diana Monis, Ravi Pinto, Evet Lewis, Stany Rodrigues, and Santhosh Pinto worked diligently to keep activities on schedule, with Ravi Pinto also serving as a marshal. Activity leads Anthony Mary, Vinod Barboza, Dominic Kumar, Marina Monis, and Rony Lobo played crucial roles throughout the day, ensuring seamless execution. The stats team, consisting of Stan Mendonca, Lainet Pinto, Ashriya Saldanha, and Diana Lobo, maintained accurate and timely results.
Vinjoy Rego and Wilson Coelho handled photography, capturing the day's highlights, while Ajith Rego kept the crowd entertained as the DJ. Steffi Martis and her team provided spirited cheerleading throughout the event. Match officials included Dr Gajanan, Mr Godwin Victor, and Joshua Abbot and Dominik Farcinkiewicz.
KCA emerged as the overall winner of the athletics meet, with MUKA securing second place, NEKA finishing third, and SKA and PCA earning the successive positions based on the points system. NEKA also received the award for the best marching association.
The entire programme was grace-filled, and KCA expressed deep gratitude to all who supported the event. Special thanks were extended to sponsors Zeena D’souza, Helen Dsa, Mario Cornelio, Denzil Pinto, Milton Dsouza, and Ravi Pinto. The KCA UK InterCity Athletics Meet was a tremendous success, fostering a sense of community and athletic spirit among participants. We eagerly anticipate continuing this tradition in future years, with even more engaging events and broader participation.
