The residential blocks have got a thumbs down but the international zone in the Commonwealth Games Village here is turning out to be a massive hit with the athletes and delegates who have checked in.
“The international zone is marvellous and I am sure the athletes would enjoy it,” Nigerian Chef de Mission Elias Gora said after going round the area.
The zone, a demarcated area in the Village, is meant for extra sport activities for the athletes and has lots of recreation facilities.
“This is the best place in the whole of the Village, I love coming here,” said an official of the Kenyan contingent.
Members from the Indian contingent — the first team to check in in the Village — have been regularly spotted in the zone.
“The international zone is very good. I enjoy spending time there and it is a world-class facility,” boxer Akhil Kumar told PTI.
Golf simulator, a hit
The state-of-the art simulator, which allows one to play golf in a graphically simulated driving range in an indoor setting, has been a hit with athletes from many countries.
“We had some foreign athletes taking part in virtual golfing action and since we are offering the service for free, we expect many more footfalls once all the teams arrive here,” said Ashutosh, in-charge at the facility.
Gaming zone
There is a gaming zone with billiards tables, a TV lounge and an ice-cream parlour, in addition to a merchandise shop, a handicrafts outlet, an electronic store and a general store that sells provisions.
The shops have stored items imported specially from the Commonwealth nations to make the visiting contingents feel at home.
The handicrafts store has art pieces from all over India to ensure that the residents get a feel of the rich cultural heritage and diversity of Indian art.
“From Kashmiri papier mache to Banarasi scarves and Kanchipuram silk, our store has specialities from all over India and we have had some curious visitors so far,” a manager at the store said while pointing to the shinning metal statues from Moradabad.
A discotheque where athletes can unwind themselves adds to the experience. The restaurant-cum-bar in the zone will also be a special attraction to foodies. One more attraction for the look-conscious inhabitants of the 63.5-acre Village is the saloon where many foreign teams including the English have booked advance appointments.
Open amphitheatre
The open amphitheatre will see flag ceremonies and cultural programs being held for various participating nations. The nearby musical fountain is also a delight especially during evening hours when lights, water and music produce a mesmerising effect.
“This is the best place for the athletes to sit and relax after all the practice session. Enjoy the evening with the fountain and cultural programs,” Organising Committee chairman Suresh Kalmadi said.
