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1151 Which one of us does not have an adrenaline rush while watching a sport? Participant or a passive spectator, playing or witnessing a game comes with its share of medals, photographs, moments of glory or the very least fantastic topic to discuss over a weekend do with your near and dear. This Sunday, our day of sports, our “Aao-Khelein” was special for most of us, a day that spelled a celebration of sorts. We planned, organized, executed and finally cheered, laughed, danced and made a lot of merry with our children who were so uniquely abled.
“Aao Khelein”, held at Oro sports Arena, on December 2nd ahead of the World disability day was everything rolled into one- we had an unprecedented turnout of schools, individual parents with children, own staff and volunteers and parent folk! A feat that we pulled off, our very first inclusive sports event, conducted for those who are specially abled. Many thanks to our mom -volunteers, with special powers, Oh yes! They had the caps (read “capes”!) on the whole time before and after the event!
The event kick-started with children with special needs across various schools in Hyderabad and Secunderabad making a grand entry with a customary march past, the traditional lighting of the torch and a few good words by our honorary chief guest. An energetic Zumba, a warm-up session followed with everyone joining in, children and adults alike to prepare for the exciting array of field and track events lined up ahead. The premises and the crew were all ready with all the prepping and dry-runs carried out earlier to welcome the children begin a series of track games, supported and cheered on by parents and caregivers all the way!
Children across various age-groups, for their part, took to it like fish to water! Mothers and fathers rolled up their sleeves took positions alongside, sweat on their brows as well not wanting their child to be left behind! All participating children came out with aplomb braving the rather fierce wintery-sun and their own challenges to make a mark on the track, winning medals and posing for photographs like absolute professionals! Elsewhere in a shady corner, the art and craft corner set up by our lovely children volunteers and the fun zone buzzed with a lot of activity splashed with gleeful faces carrying away little knick-knacks as keep-sakes. Refreshments and snacks kept doing the rounds, keeping everyone hydrated and energized all through the duration of the event, continuous music keeping to rhythm and pulse of everyone involved.
Lunch began in batches- famished stomachs filled, tired little hands and feet rested a wee-bit. The older kids began the field events, played football and basketball- the essence of sportsmanship was completely captured. Tough fights, goals, and baskets the players took it all up a notch and kept us hooked to their games. The day was coming to a close, yet spirits ran high.
A flash mob broke out into a peppy number, the younger volunteers led followed by the rest of us, our children never missed a moment of excitement did they? The visuals speak for themselves.
Our wonderful participants signed off after having lived up one of the greatest quotes of the legendary Stephen Hawking – “Disability can never be an obstacle to success?”
And us ?
We all took off with a light step, the tiredness, sweat, and heat a thing of the past. We loved and cherished every moment spent organizing and executing the event, fulfilled and gratified in every sense possible. We ensured that everyone stood tall, happy and went home a winner, trophies in tow!
“Aao-Khelein” is sure to be a harbinger of many more such fruitful events in the future.
PS: We are at a loss of words trying to credit the fantastic team of mothers who brought the idea to life, conception to execution. Our own children who doubled up as volunteers swooping down to run all errands, be it manning our stall or performing little chores. Everyone just needed spark ideas have brimmed over ever since. Synchrony financials was a rock solid pillar of support, sponsor, and organizer. Vinn hospitals graciously arranged for an ambulance on standby, Regal sports made our trophies and DPS sent across their transport to and fro from the venue. Every little gesture counted and we are thankful! Last but never the least ever so grateful Ms. Rekha Ramachandran and the Down Syndrome Federation of India(DSFI) for all your support.
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