Petroleum, Transport and Railway Sports Festival Jan. 22 to 28

by Leslie Fernando

SPORTS FESTIVAL: Plans are underfoot to hold the first ever Sports Festival among employees of Ceylon Petroleum Corporation, Sri Lanka Transport Board and Railway Department. It is organised by the Sports Council appointed by the Minister A. H. M. Fowzie. The Sports Festival will be held from Jan. 22 to 28 at Shalika Grounds, Narahenpita.

According to K. K. Chandradasa Perera who is the chief co-ordinator of the festival it will be a big boost for the sportsmen and sportswomen of these three institutions and the idea was mooted by Minister A. H. M. Fowzie in a bid to find the hidden talent and also to promote sports amongst his ministry employees.

Perera who is the vice-president of SLTB Sports Council added that the Minister is very keen in producing top level sportsmen and sportswomen in his ministries.

Minister Fowzie hopes to offer jobs to those who excel in sports. They will be an asset to the departments and through sports better workers can be found.

Minister Fowzie was himself a fine sportsman, having excelled in soccer for famous Rani Sports Club, Aluthkade and a fine wrestler and a 'slicer' representing Maligawatte CC.

Perera added that Minister has promised to provide all assistance and facilities to hold this Sports Festival. He will obtain all support from various controlling bodies to make this event a success.

Perera, Director National Aquaculture Development Authority of Sri Lanka who was Deputy Director of Sports, Colombo Municipality, was a former Sri Lanka soccer captain, national soccer coach and a reputed referee.

He said that he has made all arrangements together with his committee to have ten disciplines included for the Sports Festival - cricket, soccer, volleyball, netball, basketball, athletics, carrom, draught, table tennis and physical culture.