Chief Minister V. Narayanasamy on Sunday said he would urge the Sports Authority of India (SAI) to provide intense training for the sportspersons from Puducherry to support them for participating in the Asian and Olympic Games.
He spoke during ‘Run for Rio’ marathon on Sunday organised by the Directorate of School Education on Beach Road. The Chief Minister and Lieutenant Governor Kiran Bedi inaugurated the marathon. School students in Puducherry participated in the three-km long run to cheer the athletes representing India at the Rio 2016 Olympics Games in Brazil.
Mr. Narayanasamy added that many sportsmen from Puducherry have won in several State and national games. “In order to encourage them, special training would be provided,” he said.
Impact of sports
Lieutenant Governor Kiran Bedi said that the seeds for sports are sown in school. “Participation in sports activities will help in the development of children’s personality. Books contribute to development but sports help in overall development of the mind, body and soul,” she said.
She added that every person should participate in a walkathon, marathon or short runs. “Run for Rio has done the beautiful part of encouraging sports in Puducherry,” said Ms. Bedi.
The Chief Minister wished the best for all the Indian athletes participating at the Rio Olympics. He reiterated the Lieutenant Governor’s statement that every person, especially the youth, should actively participate in sports.
Strong participation
More than 500 students participated in the Run for Rio marathon.
