Red Cross at Athletics

The third (3rd) Red Cross National Youth Athletic Meet – 2007 organized by the Matale branch of the Sri Lanka red Cross Society will be held at the Bernard Aluvihare Stadium – Matale from September 7th to 9th.

Over 1000 Red Cross Youth Athletes, belonging to all communities from District branches of the SLRCS, including North and East are expected to take part in this three day “Sports Fiesta”, which will give them an opportunity to explore their talents in the field of athletics and also to share their experience and cultural values that would promote peace and harmony through friendship, goodwill and brotherly love towards each other.

According to the secretary of the SLRCS – Matale branch R.M. Gunatilake 950 members have already confirmed their participation with the host Matale branch fielding a 95 member contingent – being the largest.

The organizing committee has decided to conduct 47 track and field events under the following age groups 16, 18, 20 and 23 (members of the schools cross circles are expected to compete in the under 16 age group events)

Arrangements have already been made to provide accommodation and meals to all participating athletic teams at the following schools in the city of Matale – Christ Church, Vijaya College and Government Science College for men and Sri Sangamitta Girls and Pakkiam Girls N.S. for women. The sponsors of this event are Japanese Red Cross, Norwegian Red Cross, Finish Red Cross and International Federation of Red Cross. The opening ceremony will be held on the September 7th at 4 p.m. with Minister of Provincial Councils and Local Government Janaka Bandara Tennekoon as the Chief Guest. Central Province Chief Minister Sarath Ekanayake too will attend the ceremony.

The closing ceremony is scheduled to be held on September 9th at 3 p.m. Jagath Abeysinghe, the President of SLRCS will grace the closing ceremony as the Chief Guest – All winners will be awarded with medals and certificates.