VANCOUVER, B.C.: The Sikh community has always maintained their traditional religious cultural social identity where ever they have gone in search of better life. In addition while they have actively participated in the sports activities of their new homes they have glorified themselves in the traditional games.
This fact could be witnessed at the annual Shahid Mewa Singh Annual Tournament, organized
by Gurdwara Ross Street, Vancouver, on May 16, 17 & 18, 1987. The enthusiastic response of the sponsorship of the organizers by the wrestlers and players from India, England and America and the gathering of the people made this tournament a unique and memorable occasion. For all this, the management committee of Gurdwara Ross Street deserves heartiest congratulations. The arrangements were highly appreciated. The thriller was a wrestling heavy weight final in which Avtar Bhullar of Canada defeated Gurmukh Sandhu, holder of Bharat Kesri title.
The open kabaddi final which was practically an international match, SurreyDelta Club annexed the trophy defeating Gurdwara Sports Association of the same town. Crowd enjoyed the techniques and skills of the game, exhibited by Baljit, Bhidds, Swaran and others from England and U.S.A. The tournament was on par with the legendry rural sports meet of Qila Raipur in District Ludhiana of Punjab. The lifting of a bag weighing about 500 Ibs. by Joginder Singh was a feat to remember. The soccer final was bagged by Sikh Sagar, defeating S.R.S.A. team.
South Vancouver team won the hockey final while Richmond was the runner-up.
The tug of war trophy went to Vancouver Club.
Daljit Singh Sandhu, the President of Gurdwara Sahib Ross Street was the Chief Guest. The sports committee chairman and former management committee chairman Mr. Gurdev Singh Johal urged upon the Sikh youth to actively participate in the sports. S. Gurbax Singh Baghi criticized the attitude of the Indian government towards Sikh players.
Article extracted from this publication >> June 5, 1987
