The Hindu : Sport : Curtains come down on the MWG

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Monday, Oct 22, 2007
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Sport - Sports : General

Curtains come down on the MWG

Abhijit Sen Gupta

Games flag handed over to Brazil

HYDERABAD: A week long spectacle of sports, friendship and festivity came to an end when the curtain was rung down on the fourth Military World Games at the G.M.C. Balayogi stadium in Gachibowli here on Sunday.

Athletes, their coaches and sports officials from all corners of the world bade farewell to each other and to the spectators after having competed against each other in a truly sportsmanlike manner in different sports, all the while living up to the motto of the Games which was “Friendship Through Sport.”

The closing day’s function was colourful but also had its sombre moments such as when the Games flag was lowered with great dignity and ceremony. The flag was then handed over to representatives from Brazil which will host the next edition of the Games in Rio de Janiero in 2011.

The day’s programme began with a brief cultural show including a classical and fusion medley and a bharatnatyam performance by Sonali Sharma to set the mood for the evening. After this, the Akash Ganga team of sky divers displayed their skills once again amidst tremendous cheering by the spectators. Then it was the turn of the spectacular fly past in various formations by the Sarang helicopters which had the crowds really thrilled.

Thereafter the contingents marched in, again resplendent in their different uniforms.

Russia dominant again

The Russians seemed proud to have once again topped the medal tally with a haul of 38 golds, 26 silvers ansd 27 bronzes. China (36-21-11) was runner up while Germany (5-10-13) was in third place. Host India (2-1-7) finished in 19th position.

The teams marched in from one end of the ground and marched out from the opposite side followed by a family of Bravos (Bravo, a smiling bison, was the mascot of the Games). The players and the mascot marched out of the grounds, waving to the crowds.

The Games provided a unique opportunity for military personnel from all over the world to come together at one venue, live together and forge friendships and carry back many memories — not only of the intense competitions that had ensued, but also of the warmth and camaraderie that had been formed during their stay in Hyderabad.

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