THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: State Keralotsavam took off here on Sunday. Around 600 contestants from 14 districts have come down to the city to participate in Keralotsavam.
The aim of Keralotsavam is to provide an opportunity for those youth who do not get a chance to participate in school-college festivals or sports meets to exhibit their talents. Those in the age group of 15 to 40 can participate in Keralotsavam.
On Sunday, the athletics and games events of Keralotsavam were inaugurated by the Corporation Mayor K Chandrika at Central Stadium. ‘’Those youth who do get a chance to participate at youth festivals and sports meets at college levels should be given a chance to show their skills. In this context, Keralotsvam has immense importance,’’ she said.
State Sports Council president Padmini Thomas was the chief guest for the occasion. Kerala State Youth Welfare Commission board member Shiayali presided over the function.
RESULTS
Salmanal from Kozhikode emerged the fastest in 100 race in the senior men’s category while Arathi A from Idukki bagged the gold medal in 100 metre race of senior women’s category.
For those above the age of 20, Nissar from Malappuram and Reena from Alappuzha secured gold medals in 100 metres in the men’s and women’s categories.
Thiruvananthapuram men team emerged first in 4X100 metre relay while Kozhikode secured the first place in women’s 4X100 metre relay.
Maya Manoharan of Thiruvananthapuram bagged gold in the 100 metre freestyle swimming competition for women. Abul Mahaz of Thiruvananthapuram came first in the swimming competition.
The inaugural rounds of the football was held at G V Raja Sports School grounds at Mylom. Volleyball and basketball competitions were held at Chandrasekharan Nair stadium.
At the end of Sunday’s events, Idukki district topped the scoreboard with 58 points followed by Kozhikode with 54 points, Thiruvananthapuram 39 points, Palakkad 30 points and Kottayam 28 points.
The sports and games competitions of Kerolotsavam will be held from December 21 to 23.
