Bullock cart race draws crowds on Day 2 of kabaddi tourney

A bullock cart race was the highlight on Day 2 of the 29th edition of the kabaddi tournament being organised by Baidwan Sports Club. As many as 40 participants took part in the race.

The tournament kicked-off with a kabaddi match at the ground in front of Amity School in Sector 79 yesterday. A dog race was held at Saras Mela Ground in Sector 88.

The event was inaugurated by the management committee of Gurdwara Singh Shaheedan. Kabaddi matches were played today in the 32, 37, 42 and 47 kg weight categories. Rupinder Singh Rupa Sohana, patron of the kabaddi cup, presented bicycles to the best raiders.

Baidwan Club president Rubal Sohana, councillor Harjeet Singh Bholu and others said there was tremendous enthusiasm among people for the kabaddi and dog race competitions. Local BJP leaders Hardev Singh Ubha and Ashok Jha were also present.

Bullock cart and dog racing was earlier banned in the state due to animal cruelty concerns but the state government lifted the 28-year-old ban to promote heritage sports under strict guidelines to prevent animal cruelty. Sohana said, “This will help the younger generation stay away from drug addiction. The huge crowd that has gathered to watch matches is proof that rural sports in Punjab are still going strong.”