Friendship and fun

The 8th Cub Scout Holiday Camp organised by the Sri Lanka Scout Association Colombo District branch was held from April 8 to 10 at Ananda and Nalanda College premises. Nearly 30 cub packs consisting of 1600 cub scouts attended the camp.

Scouting was introduced to Sri Lanka in 1912 , just five years after Lord Baden Powell inaugurated the Scout Movement in 1907 in Brownsea Island in England. The first Colombo Scout Troop, that marks its centenary this year, was formed in 1914 at the Christ Church in Colombo 2.

As this prestigious Scout movement in Colombo has turned 100 years this year ,the Colombo District branch organised the Cub Scout Holiday Camp to commemorate the centenary year among many other events.

The theme of the cub camp was 'Friendship and Fun' under the guidance of the District Commissioner Riza Azoor and the Chief Advisor Wathsala Wijewickrema, the organising committee organised an elaborate program encompassing a variety of activities which will be both educative and enjoyable.

The opening ceremony of the Cub Camp was held at Ananda College premises, Primary School grounds and Major Gen. Prasad Samarasinghe graced the occasion as the chief guest.

Of the many highlights that were held adventure activities which included a mini version of the obstacle course of the armed forces took pride of place. This race was a test in endurance and physical ability. Many cub scouts participated in th events and enjoyed themselves.

A magic show, the Sinhala and Hindu New Year celebration, Rathu Mala (Camp Fire) and a musical show showcasing the talents of cub scouts which gave ample opportunity for cub scouts to enjoy themselves.

The campers were divided into six sub camps based on the Jungle Story and each of them was administered by a Sub Camp Chief. The Coordinating Assistant District Commissioner Noori Kuthubdeen with the Pack Leaders of participating schools ensured that the entire program functioned without a hitch and kept to the time schedules.