Bikkar Singh declared fastest octogenarian at Rural Olympics

Bikkar Singh of Ferozepur, Chhajju Ram of Barnala, and Gurdial Singh of Gurdaspur emerged as the fastest running octogenarians of the state after they bagged the first three prizes, respectively, in the 100 m race on the concluding day of the second Rural Olympics at Kilaraipur near here on Sunday.

The tug of war final match was won by Khosa Kotla Moga by defeating Sarinh Shankar Jalandhar. In hockey (women’s) finals, Khalsa College, Amritsar, defeated Punjabi University, Patiala, by 3-1, while in the men’s section, Shahbad Markanda defeated Jarkhar Academy by 4-2.

The women of Ek Noor Club, Faridkot, emerged winners in the kabaddi circle, while those of Jagatpura Nawanshahr were runners-up. The volleyball shooting competition was won by Bassian Bet by defeating Ahmedgarh in the final match. Kho Kho Coaching Center, Ludhiana, defeated SOT, Jawahar Nagar, by 16-11.

Today being a public holiday due to the festival of Basant Panchami, the event drew spectators from all sections of society, including government employees, businessmen, farmers, and students. Residents commuting on the Ludhiana-Malerkotla highway were seen diverting to Kilaraipur to witness firsthand the events of the closing day.

The three-day event, organised by the Directorate of Tourism and Culture, Archaeology and Museum, Punjab Government, concluded with assurances and prayers to meet again next year.

Ludhiana Deputy Commissioner Jitendra Jorwal appreciated the government personnel, led by SDM (East) Jasleen Bhullar, who worked day and night to make the event a success. Jorewal also thanked the residents of Kilraipur and surrounding villages, besides the Panchayat, for extending their cooperation for the smooth conduct of the event. “We are glad that no untoward incident happened during the Rural Olympics and all participants and spectators returned home happily,” said Jorwal.