By Cl. Ethan Fortes for BISMumbai

Don Bosco High School and Junior College, Lonavla, organized their Annual Sports Fest on 9 December 2022. The theme chosen for the occasion was, 'Run, Jump and Play, but do not Sin', a popular quote by St John Bosco. The Sports Fest was organized to encourage students to indulge in physical activity being disciplined and exhibiting a high level of sportsman spirit.

The Sports Fest was graced by Mr Prasanna Vartak, a Level One Cricket Coach certified by Former India Test Captain Mr Ajit Wadekar. Mr Vartak is a past pupil of Don Bosco High School and Junior College, Lonavla, and an avid lover of cricket and badminton. Mr Vartak thanked the school for inviting him to be the Chief Guest, as he felt quite honored to be invited back again to his alma mater as a chief guest.

Fr Blany Pinto, the Rector, greeted the students and encouraged them to cultivate a healthy and disciplined lifestyle. He said that this begins first through sports that helps us to positively exert one’s energy thereby avoiding bad behavior and habits.

The Sports Fest began with a marchpast and by felicitating the Chief Guest. Mr Vartak lit the torch to signal the commencement of the sports events.

The students also displayed their commitment to discipline by a physical display including pyramids. The students and parents cheered them on as they showcased their strength, endurance, and team work.

The finals of a few of the events like shotput, discuss throw, javelin, and long jump were already held prior to the Sports Fest and the winners were felicitated during the Sports Fest.

The tug of war event was the highlight of the Annual Sports Day as students of various categories fought for their team’s victory using their sheer strength and will power. Events like the relay track events and the 100m final races were held. Mr. Vartak was called forward to hand over the certificates and medals to the winners of all the events.

At the close of the day, the students were motivated by the whole event. Ms Pranjal Bachche, the Best Athlete in the Girls Category, was very happy with the way she performed saying that she was able to reap the fruits of her hardwork and dedication.