All eyes set on Pearl River for Asian Games closing ceremony, to begin at 17:30 hrs IST

Saturday, November 27, 2010

THE ASIAN Games 2010 held in Guangzhou, China opened to the world in a grand ceremony with never seen before LED lightings and firecrackers playing a major part.

The fourteen-day gala event, where even India broke all records and won many “first-ever” medals, will bring the curtains down today at 17:30 hrs IST. The ceremony will reportedly be more subtle as the hosts send off the athletes in a warm ceremony.  The games’ closing ceremony will feature at the same venue as the opening ceremony that is the Haixinsha Square on the Pearl River. It will be a three-hour performance event concluding with the flag handover for the 2014 Asian Games, to be held in Incheon, South Korea.
Famous Asian pop star Rain (Jung Ji-Hoon) will perform three songs in the event. In all eight songs have been picked for the ceremony representing the eastern, western, southern, northern and central parts of the continent. The idea behind this is to display Asia as a whole and emerging power, said one of the organisers. An Indian musician Ravi K Tripathi is also going to perform at the ceremony. He will be singing the famous A R Rahman number ‘”Jai Ho” and two other songs.
Similar to the opening ceremony, the closing will also feature water bodies as an important part. There will be interesting formations and use of the cauldron, which was lighted by firecrackers in the opening ceremony, among other things.  The whole ceremony will come to cost around $53 million, as per sources.

India has managed to pull of the best-ever Asian Games haul, since 1982 Asiad. Our athletes clinched a total of 64 medals comprising 14 gold, 17 silver and 33 bronze. This is the highest number of gold medals won since the first Asian Games held in 1951. India is on the sixth position and has superseded Thailand as well as Malaysia.

 

Read More >> Asian Games Medal List, Asian Games 2010, Asian Games 2010 Latest News

Read more...

Asian Games closing ceremony to feature Indian musician

THE GAMES are coming to an end and with that mesmerising opening ceremony, the world can’t wait to see how the games close down in Guangzhou, China.

Reportedly, the ceremony is going to have an Indian flavour too with Mumbai-based Ravi Tripathi slated to perform at the ceremony.
Tripathi will be performing the famour A R Rahman composition ‘Jai Ho’ at the ceremony with 200 Chinese dancers moving to his tunes. His 15-minute performance will include two other songs, one from his latest album ‘Baatein’ and the other, a Chinese number that has been composed by a popular China-based music composer Henry Ctang. Tripathi has sung for Chandni Chowk to China and a few other films.
Asian pop star and actor Rain (Jung Ji-Hoon) will also render three songs. Eight songs have been picked for the ceremony, representing the eastern, western, southern, northern and central parts of the continent

The closing ceremony will be held at the same venue where the Asian Games opened and water once again is a key ingredient in the whole ceremony.
The ceremony would commence with a giant chandelier emerging from the deep-water area of the stage with a sail-shaped red curtain on screens behind. The organisers also plan to use the cauldron, which was lit at the venue at the opening ceremony, together with the chandelier on the stage and the big screens shaped like sails.
A seemingly interesting ceremony is in store for all the anticipating viewers and with the Indian touch to it becomes all too special for the Indians.

 

Read More >> Asian Games Medal List, Asian Games 2010, Asian Games 2010 Latest News

Read more...

Vijender claims gold, tally touches 14

HISTORY WAS charted at the 16th Asian Games in Guangzhou, China when boxing’s pin up boy, Vijender Singh claimed gold, thus taking India’s gold medal graph to 14. The last gold haul was India’s best performance at the Asian Games so far.

To claim the 14th medal, Vijender pulverised Olympic bronze medalist, Uzbekistan's Abbos Atoev by a massive 7-0, which made the Indian spectators hysterical with the unbelievable win.

So far, India’s best performance had been during the 1982 Asian Games which was held in New Delhi. During the 1982 Games, India had clinched 13 gold, 19 silver and 25 bronze that led to a total of 57 medals.

The 25 year old, who has been compared with the likes of soccer players like David Beckham for his looks and crowd pulling ability compensated to the medal loss during the Commonwealth Games 2010 which were held in New Delhi.

Vijender’s performance on the penultimate day before the Games finally come to a close raised India’s hope of being somewhere where they could have never envisaged. However, China’s Zou Shiming retained his light-flyweight title.

With an addition of 11 more medals during the day, India’s medal graph raised to 14 gold, 17 silver and 33 bronze (total 64).

 

Read More >> Asian Games Medal List, Asian Games 2010, Asian Games 2010 Latest News

Read more...

Men's and women's kabaddi team raise India's gold medal bar

Friday, November 26, 2010

THE INDIAN women's and men's kabaddi team ended an outstanding Asian Games presentation by sealing the gold medal with a inclusive win over Thailand and Iran respectively in the finals to win the 12th gold for India on the 14th day of the ongoing Asian Games in Guangzhou, China.
The women's Kabaddi team beat Thailand 28-14 in a directing performance to settle the inaugural women's kabaddi gold of the Asian Games. In first half time they were leading 17 -7 after Thailand team failed to secure a single lonas against Indian and Indian women pinning them on the ground. Whereas, the Indian men's kabaddi team soared even higher by defeating Iran 37-20.

The squad had earlier managed to pulverise Japan to reach this spot and successfully managed to retain their glory. The Indian team also got a couple of bonus points in the opening half.

In semi-final Indian women beat Iran by close margin of 23-22. Match was interested as both teams were tied 22-22 in the closing time and the Indian team emerged victorious in the extra time.

 

Read More >> Asian Games Medal List, Asian Games 2010

Read more...

India wins 3 golds on Thursday, climbs up in Asian Games

INDIA HAS got back to its winning streak, or so it seems. After a very disappointing loss in Hockey semi-finals, India won a total of 7 medals on the 13th day of Asian Games 2010.

India won two surprise gold medals in 400m hurdles athletics event, one in men’s category and one in women’s.
After that Vikas Krishnan lifted a gold in the men's 60 kg boxing event the Asian Games.
Also, a silver was won by Dinesh Kumar in the men’s 81 kg boxing event.
The total of India’s medal now is 53 and we are sitting at the eights position as of now.
In today’s events we are hopeful of 4 gold medals with two boxing events, two kabbadi events (women’s and men’s final) in sight.

Other scheduled events where India is participating are Karate, Sepaktakraw, Wrestling and Volleyball.
India has still a few chances left before the games close down tomorrow on 27th November to make it a better event than the last Asian Games, where we finished at the eights position with around the same number of medals that we have now.

With four gold medals anticipated and a few more events in tow, its very anxiously awaited how many we are able to bag. Nothing is for sure after the heartbreaking loss in the Hockey semi-finals as India has not lost to Malaysia for the past few years in any Hockey match.
Today’s stars include Vijender Singh in the men’s 75 kg boxing gold bout where he is facing Abbos Atoev of Uzbekisan and Manpreet Singh in men’s 91 kg boxing event is facing Mohammad Ghossoun of Syria.
Kabbadi teams are also high in the gold anticipation list as India has never disappointed fans in this sport.

 

Read More >> Asian Games Medal List, Asian Games 2010

Read more...

India's stand in Asian Games 2010

INDIA WON two surprise gold medals after two days of average performance.
India's Ashwini Chidananda won a gold in the women's 400metres hurdles and Joseph Abraham clinched the gold in the men's category of he same even in the Asian Games 2010.

Ashwini outdid herself by clinching the gold with a timing of 56.15 to give India their 8th gold medal in the Games.

India’s performance was getting pretty uneventful for the past two days and these gold medals come as a pleasant surprise for all back home.

Another bronze was won by Mausam Khatri in men's 96 kg freestyle wrestling event, which made up for the disappointing performance of wrestlers earlier in he games.

Also, in hockey after the heart breaking loss to Malaysia in semi-finals, Indian team picked up the bronze after defeating Korea for it in the third-place playoff.

And with that bronze India finally ended the eight-year long wait of getting back on the podium in the sport. India won the last medal in hockey in the Asian Games 2002, in Busan.

Also, India broke Korea’s back as they have never missed a medal in the sport since the 1986 Asian Games, held in Seoul.

With these two gold medals, India beat Thailand to the 9th position. India now has a total of 9 gold medals, 13 silver and 29 bronze; that takes the total to 51.

China refuses to budge from the first position and has half of the gold medals of he whole event. China’s total is 370 medals followed by Korea with 217 medals and Japan on the 3rd position with 190 medals.

 

Read More >> Asian Games Medal List, Asian Games 2010

Read more...

Somdev wins second gold, creates history

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

SOMDEV HAS won India’s 7th gold, a second for him after he grabbed a gold yesterday in the doubles event with Sanam Singh.

The duo bashed out Gong Maoxin and Li Zhe of China and followed in to the footsteps of Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi. They sailed into o the semi-finals after winning this gold medal, taking India’s gold to 6.
And today, Somdev becomes the first-ever Indian to win a gold at a men’s singles tennis event at the Asian Games.
Today’s match was against Denis Istomin of Uzbekistan and the match belonged to Somdev right from the start.
Somdev, whose international ranking is 106 faced Istomin, who achieved a world-ranking of 39 this year. Somdev was totally in form right from the beginning and it seemed Istomin was just not playing the part. Somdev shunned Istomin 6-1 6-2.
This gold can be called one of the most precious ones as it’s the first ever in its category. Somdev has surely created history for India.
What is interesting is that this historic gold has come from a rather lesser known face of Tennis and not from Leander Paes or our own BHupathi or even Sania. Its time we realized our potential truly and gave equal importance to all players. Somdev has outdone himself by taking on the way he did to the world no 39, Istomin in today’s match.
India’s medal tally now is 37 with 7 gold medals, 12 silver and 18 bronze.  India stands tall at 6th position sharing it with Thailand. If Thailand wins another gold it could beat India to the 6th position.
China sits comfortably at the top position with a whopping 311 medals comprising of 157 gold medals. Following China are Korea with 182 medals at 2nd position and Japan at the 3rd position with 158 medals.

 

Read More>> Asian Games 2010

Read more...

Asian Games 2010 opening ceremony today at 17:30 hrs IST

Friday, November 12, 2010

THE OPENING ceremony of XVI Asian Games to be held in Guangzhou, China is going to be one of a kind.
It’s the first ceremony where the whole event will not take place in any closed place or a stadium but in an open space. It will take place on an island on Pearl River and each country’s contingent will be taken there on a separate boat.

There will be a combined ceremony part on land and part on sea, also being anxiously awaited are the ‘mysterious lightings’ that China claims to be on display.

India’s flag bearer at the opening ceremony is ace shooter Gagan Narang, but, as he has an early morning schedule on 13th November, Saina Nehwal is the stand-by flag bearer. It is not officially confirmed yet as to who will bear the flag.

Although, the local public of China has seen the rehearsals of he ceremony taking place but there still are parts which have been kept hidden till now and will be revealed to the world together, today.

The opening ceremony is being organised under Chen Weiya, who was also the assistant director of the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing. Chen revealed in a special interview that the ceremony "will surprise the world." Reportedly, a 7,000 people team will contribute to the ceremony.

 

Read More >> Asian Games, 2010 Asian Games, Asian Games 2010 News

Read more...

XIV Asian Games to begin with a spectacular opening ceremony

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

THE 2010 Asian Games are going to open in China on November 12, 2010 and the games will continue till November 27, 2010.

It is being speculated that the opening ceremony of the Asian Games will be a mega event, even when compared to the Olympics as the Asiad will host 42 events. 45 countries have confirmed participation in the Games.

The opening ceremony is being organised under Chen Weiya, who was also the assistant director of the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing. Chen revealed in a special interview that the ceremony "will surprise the world." Reportedly, a 7,000 people team will contribute to the ceremony. A lighting ceremony, separate at the sea and land will be held at the opening ceremony.

Sports like mountain biking, Wushu, Rugby, Chess and many more uncommon as well as traditional sports will be part of the event.

All 45 members of Olympic Council of Asia are participating in the Games. Athletes from these 45 countries will compete in a total of 476 events in 42 sports making it the largest competition in the history of the Asian Games.

China is leaving no stone unturned for the success of the Games, also now in the wake of the recently concluded Commonwealth Games, held at New Delhi.

As is expected both the events are bound to be compared and thus China is working extra hard to make it a bigger extravaganza. In one of the measures half of the 2.1 million private cars in Guangzhou have been ordered off the roads for the period during and leading up to the games. This step has been taken to improve the ambient air quality,  this is similar to the measures taken for the 2008 Olympics held at China.

While China battles it out to make it a spectacular event, spectators can gear up for another treat for their eyes as the Opening Ceremony is bound to be magnificent.

 

Read More>> Asian Games 2010, 2010 Asian Games, Asian Games opening ceremony

Read more...

China invited Zardari for opening ceremony of 16th Asian Games

CHINA HAS invited President Asif Ali Zardari to attend the opening ceremony of 16th Asian Games which is going to be held from November 12 to 27, in Guangzhou, China.
China is hosting another biggest event after 2008 Olympics games where in Athletes of 45 Countries will participate.16th Asian Games are schedule to start from November 12 to 27.
According to sources in Pakistan Olympic Association (POA), an invitation has been received from China in which they have invited President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari to attend the opening ceremony of the 16th Asian Games.
Pakistani Contingent is also taking part in the Asian Games. National athletes will leave for china in two parts. First batch of athletes will leave on November 8 and second batch of athletes will leave for china on November 10.
Training camps of baseball, snooker, squash, kabaddi, volleyball, martial arts, football, weightlifting and hockey are already getting underway at different venues of Pakistan Sports Complex (PSC). 169 contingent members including players and officials will visit China to participate in the mega event.
Sources in Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) said that purpose to hold all training camps under one roof is to monitor the performance of National Sports Federations and to get the best results from the athletes who will participate in the mega event of the sports world.

 

Read More>> Asian Games 2010, 2010 Asian Games, Asian Games opening ceremony

Read more...

Asian Games 2010 all set in Guangzhou

Saturday, October 16, 2010

Asian Games 2010 LogoThe 2010 Asian Games, also known as the 16th Asian Games. Asian Games are scheduled to take place in Guangzhou. Guangzhou is the second city in China to host the Games  after Beijing in 1990. A total of 476 events in 42 sports will be contested by athletes, making it the largest event in history of the Games. The Guangzhou Asian Games will feature 42 sports, including 28 Olympic sports and 14 non-Olympic sports. There are also games that debuted this year at Asian Games like Dragon Boat, Twenty-20 Cricket and DanceSport. Asian Games Start on November 12 to November 27, 2010.

Guangzhou was awarded the right on July 1, 2004. Guangzhou came after the withdrawal of several cities, from Amman, Kuala Lumpur and Seoul. The games will also be co-hosted by Dongguan, Foshan and Shanwei, the three neighbouring cities.

There are 53 competition venues and 17 training venues available for the Games. The Asian Games Venues are Zhongda Gymnasium, Triathlon Venue, Huashi Gymnasium, Huangcun Sports Base, Huagong Stadium, Huagong Gymnasium, Guangyao Gymnasium, Guangwai Gymnasium, Guanggong Gymnasium, Guanggong Cricket Stadium, Guangda Gymnasium, Aoti Tennis Centre, Aoti Shooting Range, Aoti Main Stadium, Aoti Hockey Field, Aoti Baseball Field, Aoti Archery Range, Aoti Aquatics Centre, University Town Main Stadium, Tianhe Tennis School, Tianhe Stadium, Tianhe Softball Field, Tianhe Natatorium, Tianhe Bowling Hall, Tainhe Gymnasium, Shanwei Water Sports Centre, International Rowing Centre, Guangzhou Velodrome, Guangzhou Shotgun Centre, Guangzhou Gymnasium, Guangzhou Equestrian Venue, Guangzhou Chess Institute, Guangti Gymnasium, Guangdong People's Stadium, Guangdong Gymnasium, Zengcheng Gymnasium, Zengcheng Dragon Boat Lake, Nansha Stadium, Huangpu Stadium, Huangpu Gymnasium, Huadu Stadium, Foshan Gymnasium, Foshan Aquatics Centre, Dragon Lake Golf Club, Dongguan Gymnasium, Dafushan Mountain Bike CourseBeach Volleyball Venue, Asian Fames Town Gymnasium.

The Sixteenth Asian Games 2010 attending many Sports event like Dance/Kayak, Cycling, Boxing, Bowling, Billiard Sports, Basketball, Baseball, Badminton, Athletics, Archery, Aquatics, Modern Pentathlon, Karate, Kabaddi, Judo, Hockey, Handball, Gymnastics, Golf, Football, Fencing, Equestrian, Dragon Boat, DanceSport, Cricket, Chess, WushuWrestling, Weightlifting, Volleyball, Triathlon, Tennis, Taekwondo, Table Tennis, Squash, Softball, Shooting, Sepaktakraw, Sailing, Rugby, Rowing, Roller Sports.

The opening ceremony will be held on November 12, 2010 on Haixinsha Island in the Pearl River. Opening ceremony will begin at 20:04 (UTC+8) and Asian Games closing ceremony will be held on November 27, 2010, with the performances will begin at 20:06 (UTC+8).

Read more...

Saina clinches gold, India back at number two in gold tally

Thursday, October 14, 2010

SHE CAME, she saw and she conquered! The moment of glory came when Saina Nehwal bravely defeated her Malaysian opponent Mew Chong Wong to clinch the gold medal in the womens final. Saina's gold has indeed set an example for other Indian athletes, who not only won accolades for themselves but also managed to get their sporting discipline in the limelight.

The first two sets saw both Saina and her opponent battling it out with a mixed blend of composure, perseverance and pressure. Saina's inspiration for today's medal could be the double pair of Jwala Gutta and Ashwini Ponappa, who bagged the gold in doubles match earlier today.

However, disappointment struck when the Indian hockey team was pulverised by the Australian players. India lost the match by a humiliating margin of eight goals. So far, in the medal tally, Saina's indestructible performance rocketed India to the second position. England is yet to go into the last day of their games while Australia still rules the roost with a total medal haul of 74-54-48.

Meanwhile, the biggest morale booster for Delhi came when Commonwealth Games Federation Chief Michael Fennell held a press conference and stated that Delhi has performed and the overall image of the Games have been extremely positive.

Read more...

Indians anguished over corruption in CWG Games

IT REFERS to media-reports about public-anger showered on chairperson of the organising committee (OC) for Commonwealth Games 2010, when some young men disrupted Suresh Kalmadi from dining at a Vasant Kunj restaurant at New Delhi as according to them the Parliamentarian was enjoying dinner using money siphoned from the current CWG Games-2010.

Situation became even more embarrassing when more people joined the protest on Suresh Kalmadi summoning his musclemen in defence forcing the notorious OC chief to run away leaving dinner in between.
If Union government fails to take instant action against corrupt ones of CWG-2010 just after the completion of the games, public anger may be disastrous. Union government should set an example by instant arrest of corrupt fellows of CWG-2010, say within a week ending October 17, 2010.

Even if no charges may be immediately proved against Suresh Kalmadi, he should not be spared from such an instant action. Because, if he can enjoy fruits of being OC chairperson of CWG-2010, he must be made to own responsibility for scams and scandals costing tax-payers thousands of crores rupees. Such an action showing big fish baking bread and cleaning toilets in jail on TV screens will practically and effectively check corruption and scams by the high and the mighty.

Read more...

Indian boxers shine in CWG Games, lift three gold medals

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

THE INDIAN boxing contingent in the ongoing Commonwealth Games learnt their lessons the hard way when they compensated for their mistakes, which they had committed on Monday. The boxing trio consisting Surnajoy Singh (52 kg), Manoj Kumar (64 kg) and Paramjeet Samota (91 kg) hauled three golds on Wednesday in their respective weight categories.

Although Singh and Manoj Kumar had lifted their own gold medal's, tension gripped when Paramjeet Samota was to face Trinidadian Tariq Abdul Haqq. Samota's manipulated moves not just confused the spectators but also the game specialists, when he changed his attacking style from right hand to left. The moment of victory came when Samota landed a harsh punch on the Trinidadian on the upper lip which led to an instantaneous gush of blood.

Meanwhile, in the 64 kg knockout English boxer, Bradley Saunders was left battered and bruised against Manoj Kumar, who registered a 11-2 win against him that made his journey towards the gold medal much more sweeter.

Although Vijender Singh's exit out of the semi finals came as a disappointment, Manoj Kumar tried to fill in the gap by stating there like Vijender, even he had kept the guard pretty close to his face. His style of attack confused the opponent which made his victory commendable.

Read more...

CWG Games closing ceremony: Get ready for a blockbuster

NEARLY TWO weeks long Commonwealth Games 2010 has now reached to its final destination. Commonwealth Games closing ceremony is all set to be a blockbuster affair and it would take place at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium this evening. Prince Edward will be formally closing the Commonwealth Games 2010 on behalf of Queen Elizabeth II. Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapakse will be the guest of honor of the Commonwealth Games closing ceremony.

The closing ceremony of XIX Commonwealth Games promises to be an extravaganza of colours with multiple segments. Around 2,500 school students will perform along with 7,000 artists and create some lively dance and music to make the event memorable. The event will comprise dance, music, folk and modern music, screening of films and puppet shows. Commonwealth Games 2010 mascot Shera will be present during closing ceremony.

The main theme of the event is 'Universal Love' and the main part of the event is a colourful laser show along with India's martial arts. The world's largest helium balloon aerostat will again be the star attraction at the closing ceremony. Bollywood singers like Sunidhi Chauhan, Shankar Mahadevan and Kailash Kher, among others are all set to perform in the fun-fare event.

Celebrities from sports, flim and political fraternity will be attending the closing ceremony of XIX Commonwealth Games. The event will take place between 7 to 9-30 pm. and about 60,000 people are expected to attend it at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. The Commonwealth Games Ceremonial Flag will be handed to the XX Commonwealth Games host city Glasgow.

Read more...

Saina Nehwal creates history, enters badminton finals

INDIA's BADMINTON sensation and world No. 3, Saina Nehwal became the first Indian woman to enter the finals of the Commonwealth Games badminton event. History was made at the Siri Fort Complex in front of home crowd, when she easily defeated Susan Egelstaff of Scotland in straight sets 21-10 and 21-17.

The spectators' cheered for her as she stepped onto the court which was the last game of the day. Because of her unforced errors, Saina lost the initial points and the crowd also fell silent. However, the match transformed into an entirely different level as she recomposed herself and took to the winning stride.

She snatched the first set in just 12 minutes from Susan. However, the next game saw Susan pressing force as she started advancing which was powered by by some uncharacteristic mistakes committed by Saina at the net.

Fear gripped the home crowd when Susan took a 17-16 lead from Saina but with maximum levels of perseverance she advanced with a five pointer to enter the finals.

In doubles match Jwala Gutta and Ashwini Ponappa also moved into the final with a 12- 21, 21- 13, 21- 11 win over Kate Wilson Smith and He Ting Tiang of Australia.

Saina will meet Malaysian second seed Wong Mew Chew in the final.“It is great to be in the final of the Commonwealth Games," Saina said proudly.

Read more...

Indian athlete Rani Yadav fails dope test

IN THE third case of doping in the Commonwealth Games 2010, Indian athlete Rani Yadav has tested positive for the banned substance Nandrolone. She participated in the 20-kilometre walk but did not win a Commonwealth Games medal.

Rani Yadav came sixth in the women's 20-kilometre walk last Saturday. According to games officials, Yadav has tested positive for 19-Norandrosterone, an anabolic agent.

Earlier, two Nigerian sprinters failed the dope test at the XIX Commonwealth Games, which have been largely remained dope free, barring few such instances. CGF President Michael Fennell earlier in the morning stated in a press conference that one Indian athlete had failed a dope test, but he had refused to reveal the name.

Fennel said that as per the practise, the name can be publicised only after the athlete is given the notification. He had said that official do not know yet, whether the athlete had received the notice and as such the name of Yadav was kept under wraps.

Earlier, Nigerian sprinter Samuel Okon, who finished sixth in the 110m hurdles final, was tested positive on Tuesday for the banned stimulant methylhexanamine.

Nigeria’s women’s 100m gold medal winner Osayemi Oludamola had also tested positive on Monday for the same substance.

Read more...

Commonwealth Games: Indian tests positive for banned substance

IN THE second doping incident after two Nigerian athletes tested positive for a banned substance at the ongoing Commonwealth Games in New Delhi, an Indian athlete has been reported to have failed a dope test. The news was disclosed by Games Federation President, Michael Fennell although he did not disclose the athlete's name.

While addressing a press conference, Fennell said that the committee had received a positive result. The Federation had issued a notice to the athlete as well as the chef de mission. He further stated that as per the anti-doping practice, the name will be publicised only after the accused gets a notification.

He refused to mention the status of the notification and confirmed that the athlete is an Indian.

Nigerian sprinter Samuel Okon, who finished sixth in the 110m hurdles final tested positive on Tuesday for the banned stimulant methylhexanamine. Nigeria's women's 100m gold medal winner Osayemi Oludamola had also tested positive on Monday for the same substance.

The news has come as a shock for the entire Indian sporting fraternity especially when the nation was rejoicing its stupendous performances in various events. Speculation is now rife as to which player could have tested positive for the banned substance as no one wants a medal winner to turn out to be the culprit.

India has won a record number of gold medals in this games and it would not want the clock to turn back and that too when the games are coming to a close.

Read more...

India to play against Australia in CWG Games hockey final

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

IT CAN be said that it was an unforgettable Tuesday when Indian men's hockey team stole the heart of all their fans. They were looking perfect, they were in rhythm and they dominated at the Dhyan Chand National Stadium. India defeated England by 5-4 in the tie-breaker to reach into the finals of the Commonwealth Games 2010.

During the 70 minutes of the game, both India and English team were 3-3. Once Indian team were behind 3-1 at the fully packed Dhyan Chand National Stadium. Fans were cheering for India and in the last 15 minutes of the play India never gave any chance to their opponent and scored two goals.

In the extra time both India and England were not able to score any goal. In the tie-breaker India's goal keeper Bharat Chetri saved Glenn Kirkham's penalty shot and secured the berth for final against defending Commonwealth Games champion Australia on October 14.

Meanwhile, on the ninth day of the Commonwealth Games 2010, Indian shooters Heena Sidhu and Annuraj Singh won 31st gold for the country in Women's 10m Air Pistol (Pairs) event, whereas, in the Women's 4×400m (Relay) event, Manjeet Kaur, Sini Jose, Ashwini Akkunji, & Mandeep Kaur bagged 32nd gold for the country.

In the Women's 50m Rifle Prone (Singles) event, Tejaswini Sawant and in the Men's 25m Standard Pistol (Pairs) event, Samresh Jung and Chandrasekhar Chaudhary won silver medals for the country.

In the badminton event, world third seeded badminton player Saina Nehwal reached into the women's single final. In the Women's Doubles event, Ashwini Ponnappa and Jwala Gutta also qualified for the gold medal event at the Commonwealth Games 2010.

Read more...

The verdict is out: CWG Delhi is a safe food destination

THE 2010 Commonwealth Games is seeing athletes and tourists from more than 70 countries come to the magnificent city of Delhi for the Games. But other than the sporting extravaganza guess what is keeping these visitors busy?

It is mouthwatering Indian food and delicacies! To ensure that the food is of the highest standards, the Food Safety & Standards Authority of India has launched an initiative called Safe Food Destination (SFD) in various parts of the city.

The XIX Commonwealth Games has come as a big boost to Brand India. Delhi is all geared up welcoming the world serving its unique hospitality on platter. The SFD is a great initiative launched in coordination with standards devised by the government’s Food Safety & Standards Authority of India enabling serious restaurateurs to be at par with international standards of food safety and hygiene so that they are able to cater to both national as well as International tourists.

SFD is a wholesome package that offers – testing of the food products, training of the staff, auditing and consulting.

With the aim to establish India as a safe food destination (SFD) CWG Organizing Committee is adhering to food safety norms at all the food serving establishments and at home, making them cognizant of food safety and health hygiene.

The SFD initiative has turned into a huge success with the help of food quality giant TQS Global Management System (UK). TQS has used the services of its “Mobile Testing Van” to assure quality in food and services across various parts of the city. SFD has launched a two day program together with PFA, MCD and NDMC starting a walkathon and a food safety run at different prominent locations all over the capital. To name a few, places like Khan Market, Dilli Haat, Chandni Chowk and Karol Bagh were under the scanner inculcating world class quality consciousness.

N.L.B Pantulu, Vice President Operations, said "Mobile lab is a lab on wheels, where we conduct quite a number of food safety tests for food products. This lab is equipped with GPS tracking systems and wireless connectivity platforms with high security servers on board. It can conduct almost 18 to 20 adulteration tests, for ex. adulteration in milk, adulteration in paneer and khoya and many more. It is also equipped to conduct antibiotic residue tests, pesticide residue test alergen monitoring tests, water tests and a few microbiological tests, etc. I believe this is the first fully integrated Mobile laboratory (lab on wheels) of the country.”

The Organizing Committee of Commonwealth Games have hired the catering services of AFP Manufacturing Pvt Ltd, who are providing food packets to the workforce of CWG, including OC staff, volunteers and security personnel. This contract is worth Rs. 8.75 crore. While TQS GMS is also providing SFD program to one hundred and fifty outlets which is displayed during CWG at the games village.

With three levels of quality and nutritional auditing of food, beginning from the supply of raw material itself to food preparation and cleanliness, there is no scope for compromise making sure that it adheres to international standards.

Read more...

Commonwealth Games 2010 closing ceremony: An extravaganza awaits

THE WORLD was bowled over by the Commonwealth Games 2010 opening ceremony. However, the spectators will have a feast with the closing ceremony of the games on Thursday when Jawaharlal Nehru stadium will be once again lit up with the traditional flavours.

Although the preparations for the closing ceremony are going hand in hand with the events, the closing ceremony will boast of a mélange of elements from 5,000 years of Indian culture and heritage, the closing ceremony will be more dynamic, and will emphasize modern and contemporary India.

"The closing ceremony will be a spectacular mass song and dance celebration. The closing is all about celebration. It is going to be very youthful, just like a hip hop party for all including athletes, volunteers and huge celebration time for everyone." Viraf Sarkari, Director Wizcraft International Entertainment which is an integral part of core team that also developed concepts for opening ceremony along with Organizing Committee.

The closing ceremony will be hosted on multiple stages with spectacular song and dance celebration with a colourful laser show with India’s martial arts as the main part of the show. The main theme of the event is ‘Universal Love’. Around 2,500 school students will go to perform with 7,000 artists from across India.

Opening ceremony's star attraction Aerostat, a helium balloon will now be used in a better way; the mirrors at the belly of the balloon, which failed to play huge role in the opening, will create a magical effect. All the players will walk in a mixed manner without making any distinction of countries, which is purposefully to display the whole world as a family.

Just like the opening ceremony, the closing event will be devoid of any performance by any actors. However, the Bollywood quotient will be added by the presence of singers like Sunidhi Chauhan, Shankar Mahadevan and Kailash Kher, among others. Games mascot Shera was absent from the main opening ceremony but he will be present during closing ceremony.

The troupe from Glasgow will also put up a performance similar to what India did in the Melbourne Games 2006, the closing ceremony here will see Scotland showcase a slice of its offering as a teaser of the Commonwealth Games 2014. Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa and his wife will be the chief guest at the ceremony.

At the end of the closing ceremony, the Commonwealth Games Federation’s flag would be officially handed over to representatives of 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games. The tickets are priced at Rs 50,000, Rs 20,000, Rs 4,000, and Rs 750.

Read more...

India wins record 31st gold in Commonwealth Games

Monday, October 11, 2010

ON THE ninth day of the Commonwealth Games 2010, Indian shooters Heena Sidhu and Annuraj Singh won 31st gold for the country in Women's 10m Air Pistol (Pairs) event at Karni Singh shooting range. India has now broken their record of maximum golds ever won by the country in the Commonwealth Games.

India had won 30 golds in Commonwealth Games 2002, held in Manchester in England. India has now won 26 medals including 14 golds in Commonwealth Games 2010 shooting events.

Meanwhile, in the most awaited event on day nine of Commonwealth Games 2010, India is scheduled to play against England in the Men's hockey semi-final at the Dhyan Chand National Stadium. Two days earlier, India thrashed Pakistan in a do-or-die match in Pool A  to secure the semifinal berth by 7-4 at the same venue. India and England second semifinal in the men's hockey event will start at 5:30 pm. In the first semifinal, defending Commonwealth Games champion Australia will take on New Zealand.

On the eighth day of ongoing Commonwealth Games 2010, India secured one gold, one silver and six bronze medals. The biggest upset of the day was Olympic bronze medalist Indian boxer Vijender Singh's loss in the Middle Weight (75kg) Men Semifinals bout against Anthony Ogogo of England.

In the Women's Discus throw event,  Krishna Poonia won the gold medal with a throw of 61.51 metres. She is the first Indian to win a gold medal in track and field events after Milka Singh, who won one it 52 years back. She is also the first woman to win a gold medal in track and field events of Commonwealth games. In the same event, Harwant Kaur won silver and Seema Antil secured bronze medal.

In the boxing event, India won four bronze medals in Commonwealth Games 2010 on day eight. Amandeep Singh, Jai Bhagwan, Dilbagh Singh and Vijender Singh bagged bronze medals. Tejaswini Sawant and Meena Kumari won bronze medal in Women's shooting 50 metre rifle prone pairs event.

Full Medals Tally On >> Commonwealth Games 2010 Medal Tally

Read more...

Release of CWG coins by RBI has come too late

RESERVE BANK of India (RBI) has announced its decision to release new CWG 2010 coins now on October 10, one week after the start of games that too without indicating any date of release of new coins. Is it a proper way to commemorate an important event?

These coins should have been issued on the day of opening ceremony itself with plenty of coins and coin-sets available for foreign players and delegates at Games Village. Even higher-priced silver-alloy and gold coins could have been minted for the very special occasion.

Coin-sets should be made available at all RBI offices, philately counters and selected bank-branches (both private and public) right from date of release of new coins abolishing cumbersome and costly procedure of advance-booking of coin-sets that too after some years of release of coins thereby killing very purpose of commemorating an occasion. For simplicity only one highest-priced ‘Proof’ category of coin-sets comprising of all denominations of new-released coins should be there abolishing other categories including ‘uncirculated’ one.

All new coins including higher-priced silver-alloy coins should be available at face-value right on date of release itself from such convenient centres. Popularising coin-collection on lines of philately, will give net revenue-earning because such coin-sets never come in actual circulation. Educational institutions and others can be motivated to give coin-sets as prizes in functions instead of trophies and momentos.

Read more...

India one short of winning maximum golds in Commonwealth Games

Sunday, October 10, 2010

INDIAN COMMONWEALTH contingent is just one gold away to break their record of maximum golds ever won by India in the Commonwealth Games. India had won 30 golds in Commonwealth Games 2002, held in Manchester in England. However, India has already crossed the mark of maximum 69 medals which were also won in Manchester eight years back.
On seventh day of Commonwealth Games 2010, Indian bagged 15 medals including five golds, five silvers and five bronze medals. Country's top seeded tennis player Somdev Devvarman won gold medal in Men's Singles event. He defeated Gerg Jones of Australia straight by 6-4 6-2.  
2008 Beijing Olympics bronze medalist in the Men's 66kg Freestyle Wrestling event, Sushil Kumar won gold medal in the finals in the 66 kg freestyle wrestling category in the Commonwealth Games 2010. He defeated Heinrich Barnes of South Africa. Indian wrestlers Joginder Kumar and Anuj Kumar won silver medal in Men's freestyle 120 kg and Men's freestyle 84 kg events.
India won their 13th gold in shooting as shooter Harpreet Singh won gold medal in Men's 25m centre fire pistol Individual event. In the Archery event Indian archers Deepika Kumari and Rahul Banerjee won golds in Women's recurve individual and Men's recurve individual event on Sunday October 10.
In the most important game on Sunday at the jam-packed Major Dhyan Chand Stadium, India thrashed Pakistan by 7-4 in a Pool A match of the Commonwealth Games Men's hockey event. With this victory, India confirmed a semifinals berth against England at the Commonwealth Games.

Full Medals Tally On >> Commonwealth Games 2010 Medal Tally

Read more...

Gagan creates history with fourth Commonwealth gold medal

Saturday, October 9, 2010

ACE INDIAN shooter Gagan Narang scripted history by winning the fourth gold medal at the Karni Singh Shooting Range in New Delhi on Saturday. He bagged the gold in the Singles 50 m Rifle 3 Positions (Men) event and took India's gold medals to 22. At the rate at which Narang has been performing in the Commonwealth, India can expect few more such medals in the coming days.

Meanwhile, shooters Harpreet Singh and Vijay Kumar too clinched gold medals in men's 25-metre centre fire pistol pairs event. The Commonwealth Games has brought to the fore some incredibly talented athletes and sports persons. In athletics, Harminder Singh secured a bronze medal in men's 20 km walk. Another feat was achieved by Kavita Raut on Friday when she created history by winning bronze medal in women's 10,000 metres.

Other possible events, where India can expect gold is in women's individual recurve event in which India will be represented by archers Dola Banerjee and Deepika Kumari. In the men's segment, Jayanta Talukdar and Rahul Banerjee may fetch another gold in men's recurve event.

In wrestling, all hopes are pinned upon Sushil Kumar in men's freestyle wrestling. Yogeshwar Dutt (60kg), Anuj Kumar (84kg) and Anil Kumar (55kg) are the others, who will represent India in different categories.

Full Medals Tally On >> Commonwealth Games 2010 Medal Tally

Read more...

Sania Mirza to play for gold medal in Commonwealth Games 2010

INDIA SLIPPED to the third place on Day six in the Commonwealth Games 2010. The English team with 21 golds, 37 silvers and 20 bronze medals pushed India into the third place. India have also won 21 golds, but their silver and bronze counts are behind England. Indian Commonwealth contingent has won 16 silvers and 16 bronze medals so far.

Australians are far ahead from their nearest rival in medal tally. Till now Australia have won 102 medals including 48 golds, 27 silvers and 27 bronze medals.

Today, India won their 21th gold in Shooting event. Vijay Kumar and Harpreet Singh won 11th shooting gold medal in Men's 25m centre fire pistol Pairs event. Shooter Suma Shirur and Kavita Yadav also won a bronze medal for the country in Women's 10 m Air Rifle Pairs event.

Indian men's Table Tennis team clinched a bronze medal in Men's team event. Yesterday, Women's Table Tennis team won silver medal in team event. In the Athletics, Harminder Singh won bronze medal in Men's 20 kilometres walk event.
This evening women's Tennis single final will be played at RK Khanna Tennis Complex, India's top seeded player Sania Mirza will play against Australian opponent Anastasia Rodionova.

In Wrestling, India's Yogeshwar Dutt, Narsingh Pancham Yadav and Anil Mann will be fight for gold medal in the Freestyle 60-kg, Freestyle 74-kg and Freestyle 96-kg finals (Men's) respectively, whereas, Monika Devi and Srishti Singh will be competing in the 75 kg Women's category.

Full Medals Tally On >> Commonwealth Games 2010 Medal Tally

Read more...

India wins 3 golds on Day 5, Somdev and Sania in singles finals

Friday, October 8, 2010

INDIAN ACE shooter Gagan Narang won his third gold medal in the Commonwealth Games 2010 at Dr. Karni Singh Shooting range on Friday. Gagan Narang with Imran Hasan Khan won his third gold and this was the 16th gold overall for the Indian contingent in the Commonwealth Games.
Earlier, Gagan Narang with Abhinav Bindra had won gold medals in men's 10m air rifle pair event and in the 10 m Air Rifle Men Singles events. Indian shooters have now won nine golds, six silvers and a bronze medal in the Commonwealth Games 2010. Total of 32 golds are at stake in the Shooting event, which will continue till October 13.
Today, one more shooter Vijay Kumar won a gold in the men's singles of 25m rapid fire pistol event.
The first gold medal for India today was won by archers Deepika Kumari, Dola Banerjee and Bombayala Devi Laishram in Women's Recurve team event.
In Tennis, country's top seeded tennis players Somdev Devvarman and Sania Mirza secured their berth in the men's and women's singles final. Somdev Devvarman won against Matt Ebden of Australia 6-3, 6-1, whereas, Sania Mirza defeated her Australian opponent Olivia Rogowska by 1-6, 6-4, 6-4 in the semifinal.
Indian Wrestler Babita Kumari stormed to the finals of the women's 51 KG freestyle wrestling event and ensured another medal for India. Yesterday, another wrestler Geeta had won the gold medal in the Women's freestyle 55 kg event.

Full Medals Tally On >> Commonwealth Games 2010 Medal Tally

Read more...

India retains second spot in Commonwealth Games 2010 medal tally

AFTER A glittering opening ceremony which marked the opening of Commonwealth Games 2010, now the sports fever has caught on the athletes, officials and millions of spectators from across the Commonwealth nations. During the last four days, many records have been broken and many new records have been set up during the Commonwealth Games.

Australia, the topper of 2006 Commonwealth Games is again on the top with a big margin as it has won 32 golds, 19 silver and 18 bronze medals so far. Their swimmers have won 31 medals including 11 golds, 11 silver and nine bronze medals. In the cycling competition at the 2010 Commonwealth Games,  Australian cyclist have won ten gold medals so far. Australian Gymnasts have bagged seven golds in this event.

Indian athletes have won 15 golds, 11 silver and nine bronze medals in shooting, wrestling and weightlifting events in the Commonwealth Games 2010. In the shooting event, Indian shooters performed exceptionally well and so far they have won 13 medals include seven golds and five silver medals. In the Wrestling event they won five golds, two silvers and three bronze medals whereas, in the Weightlifting competition, Indian weightlifters have won seven medals including two golds, two silver and three bronze medals.

The English team has won 12 gold, 23 silver and 12 bronze medal. In Aquatics, they have won total of 18 medals include four golds, eight silver and six bronze medals. There gymnasts also clinched eight medals include two golds and six silver medals.

During the 13 days long event, a total of 272 golds medalist will come to the podium. Today on the fifth day of the Commonwealth Games fate of total 43 gold medals will be decided in Shooting, Athletics, Weightlifting, Wrestling and Gymnastics events.

Full Medals Tally On >> Commonwealth Games 2010 Medal Tally

Read more...

Indian shooters strike gold, archers win bronze

Thursday, October 7, 2010

THE INDIAN women's archery team scripted history when they won an unexpected bronze medal in the women's compound team event in New Delhi on Thursday. The team which comprised of Gagandeep Kaur, Jhano Hansdah and Bheigyabati Chanu defeated Malaysia by 223-219 at Yamuna Sports Complex. On the victory, an elated Gagandeep said that it's the first medal for India in Games archery. I am excited to be part of this. We tried our best in the semi-finals but it did not happen.

India was defeated by Canada in the semi-finals by a seven point difference with a score of 224-217. England bagged the gold medal.

In tennis, India's top seed, Somdev Devvarman advanced to the semi-finals in the men's singles tennis event at the Commonwealth Games on Thursday.

Meanwhile, at the Karni Singh Shooting range, Indian shooters Vijay Kumar and Gurpreet Singh struck gold in the Pairs 25 metres Rapid Fire pistol event. With this the duo also scripted a new Games record with a final total of 1162. Both of them shot 293 each in the second stage.

Hafiz Adzha and Hasli Izwan of Malaysia took silver in the Pairs event. Their total score was 1144 and Australia ended up winning bronze with a score of 1125.

This is the sixth gold medal for India in the shooting event and the total number of golds won by India so far is 12. However, India's favourite Tejaswini Sawant's incapability of making it through the finals in the womens 50 metres Rifle-3 Positions was a more disappointing one.

Latest Updates On >> Commonwealth Games 2010

Read more...

India breathes easy as Commonwealth Games unfold splendidly

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

THE COMMONWEALTH Games 2010, began on a splendid note with the successful ‘opening ceremony’ putting to rest all fears of India putting up an embarrassing show in front of the rest of the world. No doubt everyone from an average Indian to Suresh Kalmadi had the pre-event jitters but they vanished into thin air by the end of the opening ceremony. Many who had given up the hope of the success of CWG are now pleasantly surprised.

Even days before the ‘opening ceremony’, the not so encouraging stories about the Games were trickling in and reinforcing the fears of the Games going awry. However, the post ‘opening ceremony’ mood was positive, proud and happy. The web was inundated with expressions of love and pride for the country.
The ceremony was no less than a festival. Certain moments like the entry of the Indian team into the stadium receiving a standing ovation, performance by artists presenting the six folk dances of India and the ‘Journey of India’ put together by the Indian Railways really struck a chord with the masses.

Though I couldn’t catch the ‘opening ceremony’ in the stadium, but while I was watching the frenzy unfold on the television set, a message I had received a few days back on my cell phone came to my mind. The message was about the conversation between a foreign tourist who had returned from a trip to India and his friend. The friend asks his India returned friend, “How is India and the Indians?” The India returned friend replies, “India is beautiful but I didn’t meet any Indian there. All the individuals I met were either Punjabi, Marathi, Gujarati or something similar.”

When I first read this message, unfortunately I was in partial agreement but the ‘opening ceremony’ left a proud smile on my lips and made me realise that the message was anything but credible.

Latest Updates On >> Commonwealth Games 2010

Read more...

Gagan Narang, Anisa Sayyed win Gold in CWG 2010 shooting event

ONCE AGAIN Indian shooters proved their supremacy in the ongoing Commonwealth Games 2010 and won two gold medals today. First Gagan Narang targeted for gold in 10 m Air Rifle Men Singles Final  and later Anisa Sayyed in the 25 m Pistol Women Singles final at Dr. Karni Singh Shooting range.
Earlier today, two of the best Indian shooters Gagan Narang and Olympic gold medalist Abhinav Bindra won gold and silver medal in the 10 m Air Rifle Men Singles Final. Narang shot a perfect 600 and equaled his own world record. It was third gold medal for India in shooting. James Huckle of England won bronze medal in this event.
Shooter Anisa Sayyed continued her gold charm in Commonwealth Games again today. She gunned for gold in the 25 m Pistol Women Singles Final. Another Indian shooter, Rahi Sarnobat had to be satisfied with silver medal. Malaysian shooter Pei Chin Bibiana begged bronze medal in this event.
In the Men's Pairs Double Trap event, Asher Noria and Ronjan Sodhi of India bagged silver medal in the Commonwealth Games today. England's shooter Steven Scott and Steven Walton won gold and Benjamin Cheng Jie Khor and Seng Chye Khor of Malaysia won bronze medal in the event.
Yesterday, Abhinav Bindra and Gagan Narang had won gold medal in men's 10m air rifle pair event and Rahi Sarnobat and Anisa Sayeed won gold in pairs 25m pistol event in the Commonwealth games 2010. India has already won four golds and five silver medals in the shooting event so far.

Latest Updates On >> Commonwealth Games 2010

Read more...

Will CWG Games prove to be another sex haven for escorts!

IN WHAT is seen as a brazen form of sex tourism in the milieu of the cosmopolitan Commonwealth Games, the national capital has geared up for profligacy, thanks to the number of escort agencies running in full flow.

Parallel to all such widespread international events, especially games, like FIFA and Olympics, an equally broad-based web of upscale flesh trade is known to run. And the Delhi CWG Games are no exception. Reportedly thousands of escorts, have been roped in by flesh trade outfits that are run surreptitiously. Many of the girls brought to Delhi for such illegal operations are from foreign nations.

And as per reports, escorts from countries, particularly European ones like Britain, Poland, and Germany along with nations like Turkey and Afghanistan will work in Delhi until the Games are over. Outsourcing of sex jobs to Delhi at a time when the maximum foreign tourists are expected here is seen to be lucrative enough for foreign escort agencies including those in Russia.

The Commonwealth Games are there for a fortnight and will likely bring in combined profits to the tune of millions. Already mired in controversies, the CWG games can ill afford another one. But this is an open secret, party to which are rich brokers who are purportedly unnerved by authorities as they find dormant backing from police in return for money. So, a hullabaloo is improbable. During the Olympics in Beijing the government adopted the protection methods to avoid AIDS as stopping the trade was not doable.

The escorts are brought from foreign lands in the garb of overseas tourists on temporary visas. The business is for the elite and runs in posh star hotels. Since the escorts masquerade as tourists, it is not easy to crack down without proof of wrongdoing. At the same time, raiding star hotels on the basis of suspicion is hardly an option even as everything appears normal.

A private channel had unearthed some of these transgressions in an investigative story but little follow-up action is known to be taken by Delhi Police.

Latest Updates On >> Commonwealth Games 2010

Read more...

India expected to put up a good show today, 28 medals at stake

THE COMMONWEALTH Games are in for tough competition. And now with India already having raked in 5 gold medals, it stands second after Australia. The Indian contingent is leaving no stone unturned to rake in the maximum number of medals.

The start was made by ace shooter and Olympic Gold medalist, Abhinav Bindra along with his teammate Gagan Narang, who is a world champion. Hopes are again high with these two ace shooters appearing individually in the 10m air rifle event which has been mastered by Bindra. Although he might face tough competition from Narang, the chance of India bagging another gold in shooting is quite close.

The situation in the pool looks captivating as well as grim as India's lone gladiator, Virdhawal Khade is all set to fight it out alone vying for at least one medal in the 50m butterfly event.

More action and surprises await in the womens hockey event: The Indian team will be facing world champions Australia afer their opening match against Scotland ended up in a draw. The mens hockey team emerged victorious with their classic 3-2 win against Malaysia yesterday.

With 28 gold medals at stake in today's event, a lot is expected from the players, who will be representing India in different disciplines like shooting, weightlifting, archery.

Full Schedule On >> Commonwealth Games 2010

Read more...

Indian shooters eying four golds today in Commonwealth Games

DAY TWO of the Commonwealth Games 2010 was great for Indian athletes and Indian sports spectators. On Tuesday India won five gold medals in total in shooting and Wrestling events. First shooter Abhinav Bindra and Gagan Narang bagged first gold medal for the country in men's 10m air rifle pair event in the Commonwealth games 2010 then women shooter Rahi Sarnobat and Anisa Sayeed followed their male counterpart and won gold in pairs 25m pistol event.

Later, it was Ravinder Singh, who won third gold for India and first in the wrestling event. He clinched gold in 60kg Greco-Roman style wrestling event. Fourth gold medalist of the day was wrestler Sanjay Kumar, who won second gold in the wrestling event in the 74kg Greco-Roman style. Fifth man of the day, who came to the podium was Anil Kumar. He won gold in the 96 kilogram category of men's wrestling played at the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex.

Today in Commonwealth games 2010, Indian shooters are eying for four gold medals. First Asher Noria and Ronjan Sodhi will participate in Pairs Double Trap Men event, then Olympic gold medalist Abhinav Bindra and Gagan Narang will be gunning for 10 m air rifles Singles event. Rahi Sarnobat and Anisa Sayyed are also in the fray of gold medal event in 25 m Pistol Women Singles. Finally, Deepak Sharma and Omkar Singh will try to set target for gold in 50 m Pistol Men Singles event.

Full Schedule On >> Commonwealth Games Schedule

Read more...

Fewer heads turning up for events during CWG 2010?

IT WAS surely a gala affair without hitch, Commonwealth Games (CWG) 2010 opening ceremony made everyone sit up and take note. But after an extravagant start, the hype over the event has failed to attract spectators. The stadiums are running empty, with athletes not having much options than just performing for the cameras.

Even CWG Federation Chief has uttered distress for the thin attendance.

It is matter of surprise that Delhiites who eagerly awaited this mega events had shown interest only during the opening ceremony. It is evident that cricket crazy India is hardly fascinated by other sports, costly tickets and negative publicity is another added reason. There is lack of awareness on the part of citizens about the Games, do and do not's list lead to people ignorance.

Urban population only cheers for cricket and watching games like wrestling, boxing, shooting etc. are just wastage of time for them. Running on the field/track has always been considered a waste of time, even in the school, in terms of and with respect to academic performance. So disconnection from the CWG events is usual phenomenon as the events in such games are not given their due weightage or accreditation.

Organizing committee should bring down the cost of tickets or come up with innovative ideas so as to attract the maximum number of citizens. But, I still feel traveling in Delhi is difficult, tiresome task , walking some kilometers to stadium and security checking is headache for citizens in games. Standing in traffic jams always makes the matter worse.

India needs to showcase the event in a successful manner for which co-operation is required from the citizens by attending the events and supporting the athletes. It will bring cheers to millions people who have worked hard to make this happen. The experience of seeing an event in person is different and it is not only sports event everyone can see technologically advanced stadium which is world class.

Latest Updates On >> Commonwealth Games

Read more...

Protocol breach at CWG opening

Tuesday, October 5, 2010

THE PRIME Minister’s Office has conveyed discontent at an apparent breach of protocol by a member of the President Pratibha Patil’s team which had to do with seating arrangements during the successful opening ceremony of the CWG Games.

One of Patil’s secretaries had asked Manmohan Singh to switch seats that are set beforehand. The member of staff – a senior one – reportedly patted on the Prime Minster’s shoulder asking him to swap his location to make the sitting arrangement more logical. According to the prearranged sitting order the PM would have a seat at the side of former President APJ Abdul Kalam. The concerned secretary only tried to ensure that the PM sat adjacent to President Pratibha Patil.

The confusion was further roused when Camila Parker Bowles opted to have a seat next to Prince Charles who along with Patil declared the Games open. The final arrangement had Pratibha Patil occupying the seat just next to her spouse Devi Singh Patel, who was flanked by the former and Prince Charles. Rashtrapati Bhavan has downplayed the incident and maintained nothing of what is being said is factual.

Breaches of protocol are quite in rage these days. Not long ago, in what was a grave protocol breach by Mamta Banerjee, the Chief Minister of West Bengal, Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee, did not receive invitation for the metro rail inauguration ceremony which was graced by the President Pratibha Patil on her visit to the state. The incident raised eyebrows and attracted criticism from authorities within the state department as well as from New Delhi.

More recently, the Minster of State for Health, Dinesh Trivedi festooned the statue of Mahatma Gandhi before the governor. Code of behavior has it that no official should garland a statue before the Governor of the state has done that. Trivedi later said he was unaware that the Governor was to come and did not intend to violate customs.

Latest News On >> Commonwealth Games

Read more...

Australian boxers complain about faulty weigh-in scales

A MAJOR snag hit the Commonwealth Games 2010 at the Talkatora Indoor stadium, when the official weigh-in for the boxing competition was found to be faulty by the Australian boxing contingent. The Australian boxing team complained that the faulty weigh-in scales at the venue were showing nearly all fighters overweight.

The competition manager Lenni Gama has denied about any problem with the scales and said that the scales were perfect and all this fuss was created by the teams, who had overweight boxers in their team. The technical delegate for the event Ray Silva said that everything was OK and weigh-in will now take place on Tuesday morning.
Australian official, John Gatfield said that their boxer Jason Maloney, weighed in and found he was a fraction over, but it showed Jason Maloney was find a half a kilogram over from the last reading, after he went to the sauna trying to lose some weight and when they came back.

Australia is leading in the medal tally of the XlX Commonwealth Games. On day one they bagged four golds and two silver. On day two of the event Australian are likely to win maximum gold in Swimming event.

Read more...

Commonwealth Games 2010: Major events on Day 2

INDIA STARTED Tuesday morning in the Commonwealth Games 2010 with a gold. In 10m Air Rifle Men's Pairs event, Indian pair Abhinav Bindra and Gagan Narang won first gold medal in the 19th Commonwealth Games. Abhinav Bindra and Gagan Narang also broke the record they had set in Melbourne in the previous Commonwealth Games.

On day 2 in the Commonwealth Games 2010 in the 50 m Rifle 3 Positions Pairs events in women's category, Indian pair Tejaswini Samant and Lajja Gauswami will shoot for the second gold medal for her country. Tejaswini Samant is defending air rifle champion and world gold medalist.

Indian Wrestlers Ravinder Singh and Anil Kumar will take part in the medal event of 60 kg and 96 kg Men's events at Indira Gandhi Sports Complex on Tuesday.
In the Weightlifting event at Jawaharlal Nehru Sports Complex in the Men 62 kg category, Omkar Shekhar Otari and Rustam Sarang will try to clinch gold, whereas, in the Women 53 kg category, Swati Singh is the hope for Indians spectators.

In another important event on day 2 in the Commonwealth Games 2010, Indian hockey team will play against Malaysia at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium this evening.
In the tennis event, which will be played at R. K. Khanna Tennis Complex today, Indian top seeded player Somdev Devvarman will play against Devin Mullings of Bahamas in the first round of Men singles event, whereas, in the first round of Men double event, Indian greatest double pair Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi will play against Sri Lankan pair Amresh Jayawickreme Thangarajah and Dinesh Kanthan.

Today in the Commonwealth Games 2010, athletes will come to the podium for 18 gold medals in different categories. In swimming 5 golds, shooting 4 golds, cycling 3 golds, Wrestling 3 golds, Weightlifting 2 golds and in Gymnastics one gold medal will be decided today.

Read more...

Indian shooters clinch gold in 10m air rifle pair in CWG

Monday, October 4, 2010

OLYMPIC GOLD medalist Abhinav Bindra and world champion Gagan Narang did maximum amount of justice on the hopes which were put upon them. The ace shooters on Tuesday clinched gold medals for mens 10m air rifle pair's event in New Delhi. The medals mark India's first gold in the ongoing event.

Brits James Huckle and Kenny Parr was a distant second with 1174 points, while Bangladesh's Abdullah Hel Baki and Mohammad Asif Hossain Khan took the bronze at 1173.

The ace Indian shooters represented India in the 10m air rifle event before world champion Tejeswani Sawant, who had previously won two gold medals at the Melbourne Commonwealth Games and Lajja Goswami, who clinched 50m, 3rd position event later in the day.

Deepak Sharma and Omkar Singh will be trying their luck in the 50m free pistol event and Rahi Sarnobat and Anisa Sayyed will compete in 25m pistol event for women. Looking at the high tension levels, national coach Sunny Thomas added that Gagan and Abhinav are two top class performers and going by their past records, we should not have much difficulty winning a medal in air rifle. He also said that shooting is a very unpredictable event, so nobody is sure about who will win or who will not.

Hopes were at a all time high with Gagan Narang as he is titled as the world record holder. He had scored 600 out of 600 during his unparalleled record-winning feat - in air rifle event. However, Olympic Gold medalist Bindra required grace marks to qualify for the CWG 2010 team against Sanjeev Rajput. The latter had scored a 597 at the Pune trials in August.

Read more...

Nigerian weightlifter bags gold, Indian lifters also win medals

NIGERIAN WEIGHTLIFTER  Augustina Nkem Nwaoko made a great start by clinching the first gold medal in the XIX Commonwealth Games 2010. Nwaoko created history with a total of 175 kgs, as she lifted 77 kgs in the Snatch, and followed that up with another successful lift of 98 in the Clean and Jerk, in the 48-kg women's weightlifting category.Indian weightlifters, Soniya Chanu….

More On >> Commonwealth Games Weightlifting

Read more...

India stuns the world with grand CWG Games opening ceremony

AMIDST MUCH fanfare and pomp the XIX Commonwealth Games, Delhi 2010 were declared open on Sunday. The spectacular sporting extravaganza was witnessed by millions of people across the world on their TV sets, besides the 60, 000 strong crowd that flocked the Jawaharlal Nehru stadium.

The event was kicked off by Prince Charles and President Pratibha Devi Singh Patil as they declared the games open. Though according to protocol, the British Monarch, who heads the CWG Federation has to declare the games open, in her absence, her message was read out to the audience by Prince Charles.

Organizing Committee Chairman, Suresh Kalmadi, CWG federation chief, Mike Fennell, and Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh addressed the august spectators who had gathered on the occasion.

Brushing aside scams, controversies and negative publicity that marred the Games during the last few weeks, the opening ceremony showcased incredible India in its magnificent colors. India’s rich culture and heritage was the essence of the opening ceremony. The event showcased galore dance, music and arts. The XIX Commonwealth Games' opening ceremony enthralled one and all. This is the biggest sporting extravaganza India has ever organized since the 1982 Asian Games.

The much discussed highly expensive Aerostat was raised in the middle of the stadium above 25 meters from the ground suspended with puppets. A team of 1000 drummers created sort of magic with their thumping, beat leaving spectators awestruck.

The tone of shankhnaad across the stadium indicated that India has arrived. The splendid firework lit the sky combined with laser light making environment completely drowned in the colors of India.

Popular classical singer Hariharan took the centre stage along with 1000 school children rendering heart touching Swagatham song (welcome song) to welcome foreign dignitaries and athletes.

Athletes and officials from 71 participating nations took part in the march past. According to reports emanating from Commonwealth Games, there are some 4500 athletes and 2500 support officials who participated in the grand sporting extravaganza. India’s contingent was led by 2008 Olympic Gold medalist, Abhinav Bindra. India is expected to break their best haul of medals in Commonwealth Games, in 2002 Manchester Commonwealth Games, India had bagged 79 medals. This time they are aiming for 100 medals and second place in the medal tally.

Musicians and artists from across the country mesmerized the audience with their superb performance. Carnatic, Classical, fusion, yoga, Sufi and a host of many other genres of Indian culture were showcased to the world.

The climax of the ceremony was kept under cover. Oscar Award winning music director, AR Rahman took centre stage as he rendered CWG 2010's theme song, O yaaro India bula liya and Jai Ho from his Oscar winning movie, Slumdog Millionaire leaving audiences spellbound.

The grand opening ceremony was applauded by world leaders and media. They showered praise on India for organizing such a magnificent opening ceremony.

Read more...

PM says India delighted to host Commonwealth Games

WELCOMING All all to Delhi Commonwealth Games, the Prime Minister Dr Manmohan in welcome address at the inaguration ceremony on Sunday, said that people of India are delighted to host the Nineteenth Commonwealth Games in the historic city of Delhi.

"It is a proud moment for all our countrymen. I convey my warm greetings to each member of this august gathering of the Commonwealth sporting fraternity", the Prime Minister said, adding "I invite all our guests – who have come from every corner of the world – to enjoy our hospitality, to enjoy the Games and to enjoy the incredible sights and sounds of India.".  
He further said that over the next two weeks, the participants and the nation will celebrate and honour sporting excellence on the playing fields, adding we will see contests of human skill and endurance but above all of courage and character.
The Games are an occasion to uphold and renew the essential spirit of the Commonwealth that seeks to promote peace, equality and friendship among all people and nations, added Dr Manmohan Singh.
It is participation and sportsmanship, more than winning or losing, which will strengthen the cherished ties of goodwill and understanding that unite us as one family, he remarked.

Read more...

World excited on the gala opening Ceremony of Commonwealth Games 2010

IT WAS completely India’s Day. India proved Commonwealth detractors wrong by showcasing its capacity for hosting a mega event. The much awaited gala inaugural of the Commonwealth Games took place in nation’s capital on 3 October, 2010 at 7 pm with all roads leading to Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.

More than one lakh security personnel were guarding New Delhi during the biggest-ever Commonwealth Games that drew nearly 7,000 athletes and team officials from around the world and Delhi looked like a virtual security fortress with markets and commercial establishments closed for the day.

Around 80,000 policemen and 20,000 paramilitary troops, 1,500 elite commandos and snipers, 100 anti-sabotage teams and 15 bomb disposal squads were deployed for duty for the biggest sports event India has hosted since the 1982 Asian Games. The whole of Delhi was in a security blanket and looked bullet proof from all sides.

Military helicopters hovered over the Nehru Stadium and the athletes' village which houses visitors from 71 countries and territories that form the Commonwealth community. It was multi-layered and multi dimensional security arrangement for all. Indian authorities had taken unprecedented security measures due to fears of possible terrorist attacks and following statements from participating countries including Australia which said the Games could be a target for terrorists.

Former President Dr A.P.J Abdul Kalam, President Pratibha Patil, Prince Charles and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh witnessed the three hour ceremony with various dignitaries from the participating countries present there. This is the first time the Games are being opened by two dignitaries as part of a compromise pact between the hosts and the Commonwealth Games Federation. In another first for the Games, the athletes walked with their respective countries' contingents and took their seats alongside guests.

The Aerostat, a helium balloon and one of star attractions lifted off after a pyrotechnical display of fireworks that followed the playing of the national anthem. After the first segment of the opening ceremony that lasted for 12 minutes, singer Hariharan sang Swagatam (Welcome all) along with students from different schools of Delhi, who showcased the art of mehndi (henna) painting white sheets with it to exhibit hands full of artistic designs.

The performance was followed by the march past as the 6,700 athletes from the 71 countries made their entry into the stadium. They were led by ladies showcasing 71 Indian dresses, a sight itself to watch. The Pakistani and Sri Lankans contingent were greeted with a huge cheer. But as expected, the whole 60,000-strong crowd and the dignitaries gave the host contingent a standing ovation as they were led in by Olympic Gold medalist Abhinav Bindra.

Boxer Vijender Singh entered with Queen’s Baton in stadium and in last lap, Sushil Kumar handed it over to Prince Charles who read the message of Queen. Ace shooter Abhinav Bindra took oath on behalf of athletes which was followed by flag hosting ceremony. There were another six segments Tree of Knowledge ,Yoga, Great Indian Journey and Oscar winning composer A.R. Rahman's rendition of the CWG anthem 'Jiyo Utho Badho Jeeto' during three-hour long ceremony.The  ceremony concluded around 11 PM.

Read more...

World excited on the gala opening Ceremony of Commonwealth Games 2010

IT WAS completely India’s Day. India proved Commonwealth detractors wrong by showcasing its capacity for hosting a mega event. The much awaited gala inaugural of the Commonwealth Games took place in nation’s capital on 3 October, 2010 at 7 pm with all roads leading to Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.

More than one lakh security personnel were guarding New Delhi during the biggest-ever Commonwealth Games that drew nearly 7,000 athletes and team officials from around the world and Delhi looked like a virtual security fortress with markets and commercial establishments closed for the day.

Around 80,000 policemen and 20,000 paramilitary troops, 1,500 elite commandos and snipers, 100 anti-sabotage teams and 15 bomb disposal squads were deployed for duty for the biggest sports event India has hosted since the 1982 Asian Games. The whole of Delhi was in a security blanket and looked bullet proof from all sides.

Military helicopters hovered over the Nehru Stadium and the athletes' village which houses visitors from 71 countries and territories that form the Commonwealth community. It was multi-layered and multi dimensional security arrangement for all. Indian authorities had taken unprecedented security measures due to fears of possible terrorist attacks and following statements from participating countries including Australia which said the Games could be a target for terrorists.

Former President Dr A.P.J Abdul Kalam, President Pratibha Patil, Prince Charles and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh witnessed the three hour ceremony with various dignitaries from the participating countries present there. This is the first time the Games are being opened by two dignitaries as part of a compromise pact between the hosts and the Commonwealth Games Federation. In another first for the Games, the athletes walked with their respective countries' contingents and took their seats alongside guests.

The Aerostat, a helium balloon and one of star attractions lifted off after a pyrotechnical display of fireworks that followed the playing of the national anthem. After the first segment of the opening ceremony that lasted for 12 minutes, singer Hariharan sang Swagatam (Welcome all) along with students from different schools of Delhi, who showcased the art of mehndi (henna) painting white sheets with it to exhibit hands full of artistic designs.

The performance was followed by the march past as the 6,700 athletes from the 71 countries made their entry into the stadium. They were led by ladies showcasing 71 Indian dresses, a sight itself to watch. The Pakistani and Sri Lankans contingent were greeted with a huge cheer. But as expected, the whole 60,000-strong crowd and the dignitaries gave the host contingent a standing ovation as they were led in by Olympic Gold medalist Abhinav Bindra.

Boxer Vijender Singh entered with Queen’s Baton in stadium and in last lap, Sushil Kumar handed it over to Prince Charles who read the message of Queen. Ace shooter Abhinav Bindra took oath on behalf of athletes which was followed by flag hosting ceremony. There were another six segments Tree of Knowledge ,Yoga, Great Indian Journey and Oscar winning composer A.R. Rahman's rendition of the CWG anthem 'Jiyo Utho Badho Jeeto' during three-hour long ceremony.The  ceremony concluded around 11 PM.

Read more...

Commonwealth Games kick off amidst much fanfare

Sunday, October 3, 2010

THE COMMONWEALTH Games kicked off on Sunday amidst much fanfare with Prince Charles and President Pratibha Patil declaring the games open at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Delhi.

The games got off to a colourful start with millions of people watching the opening ceremony across the globe. Indian traditional music, dance and culture formed the chief attraction of the opening ceremony, which witnessed top leaders and politicians of the country attending the event.

The programme commenced with Indian national anthem, which was followed by Rhythm of India, an electrifying opening act.

A major attraction was Helium Aerostat which was the centre of attraction of the event. Hundreds of drummer filled the air with captivating music, who were followed by schoolchildren singing Su Swagatam to welcome the games visitors.

The school children also formed a namaste in the stadium ground and displayed rhythmic movements. After the welcome ceremony was over, athletes from  participating countries marched into the stadium.

To ensure that no untoward incident takes place, Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium was turned into a fortress with thousands of security personnel fanned in and around the venue to ensure that opening ceremony of the 19th Commonwealth Games goes off without a hitch.

There were numerous check points on way to the stadium with gun-toting police men manning the nakas. Vehicles were kept away from the stadium to negate any threat to the thousands of spectators and VVIPs at the Jawaharlal Nehru stadium.

Read more...

Department of Posts launches third set of stamps on CWG 2010

POST A spectacular opening ceremony at the XIX Commonwealth Games in New Delhi, the Indian postal department walked an extra mile to commemorate the event. The Department of Posts released a third set of stamps on tennis, archery, hockey and athletics. The stamp release ceremony was attended by Lt General (Retd) Ashok Kapur ADG (Games Village) and other high ranking officials from the postal department.

Since such stamps commemorate a good event and are printed only in limited quantities, for the third set 4 lakh stamps were printed and issued. Apart from this, the Delhi Postal Circle has issued one Special Cover to commemorate the arrival Of Queen’s Baton in Delhi and very soon two picture post cards will also be issued by Department Of Posts on Commonwealth Games 2010.

The other set of stamps commemorate the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium and the Talkatora Stadium. The Philatelic Sales Counters of these Post Offices are a major hit as a range of beautiful designed stamps (featuring the flora and fauna, sports, art & culture, famous personalities etc.), Philatelic Books and Special Covers have already been put out for sale.

For the convenience of the visitors and delegates from participating countries, the Department of Posts has established two Post Offices i.e. CWG Village and Main Press Centre, Pragati Maidan.

Read more...

Commonwealth Games 2010 Updates,News,Events,schedule,Results

Friday, October 1, 2010

Check these Out

  1. Commonwealth Games 2010 Aquatics Events
  2. Commonwealth Games 2010 Archery Events
  3. Commonwealth Games 2010 Athletics Events
  4. Commonwealth Games 2010 Badminton Events
  5. Commonwealth Games 2010 Boxing Events
  6. Commonwealth Games 2010 Cycling Events
  7. Commonwealth Games 2010 Gymnastics Events
  8. Commonwealth Games 2010 Hockey Events
  9. Commonwealth Games 2010 Lawn Bowls Events
  10. Commonwealth Games 2010 Netball Events
  11. Commonwealth Games 2010 Rugby Sevens Events
  12. Commonwealth Games 2010 Shooting Events
  13. Commonwealth Games 2010 Squash Events
  14. Commonwealth Games 2010 Table Tennis Events
  15. Commonwealth Games 2010 Tennis Events
  16. Commonwealth Games 2010 Weightlifting Events
  17. Commonwealth Games 2010 Wrestling Events

Read more...

Text Widget