• News:
• Blogs:
• Relief and back-slapping as the Games get underway

Relief and back-slapping as the Games get underway

There was relief and back-slapping all round following Sunday’s successful Commonwealth Games opening ceremony in India’s capital, New Delhi.

Up to 60,000 ticket holders had nudged and pushed their way into the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium where they were treated to a spectacular display of lights, colour, music and dancing.

Last night, at a sumptuous party hosted by billionaire industrialist and philanthropist Subrata Roy, Delhi’s luminaries were beaming, too. It was good news at last after a troubling few weeks of uncertainty and anxiety.

Countries are often criticised for hosting major sporting events, particularly developing countries. But the Commonwealth Games provides a unique opportunity for a host country and its athletes to showcase their abilities. There aren’t many platforms like this. The legacy is often not immediately noticeable but it can be multifold – in terms of infrastructure, national pride, and the ability to reinvigorate the ‘sport for all’ agenda.

As one seasoned sporting commentator said to me: ‘You don’t judge any Games after three days. Sometimes it can take 20 years to see their impact.’

Add your comment

* Name
* Email (not displayed on screen)

* Message

CAPTCHA (required)

• Administer