Commonwealth Youth Games are underway

The rich cultural heritage of India and the great Maratha spirit came alive on Sunday, as the spectacular sporting bonanza of the Commonwealth Youth Games 2008 began in Pune.

Her Excellency, Smt. Pratibha Devisingh Patil, President of India, declared the Games open in the presence of eminent dignitaries, famed athletes and gallaries full of sports lovers.  Mr. Suresh Kalmadi, MP & Chairman, Commonwealth Youth Games Pune 2008 and Commonwealth Games Delhi 2010 expressed his happiness that for the first time all the 71 nations were participating in Commonwealth Youth Games. He also thanked Puneties for their overwhelming support and warm welcome extended by them to the participants.

Ciara Mageean was the Northern Ireland Flag bearer at the extravagant opening ceremony and Conor Leaney was Northern Ireland's ceremonial water carrier.

Prior to the opening ceremony all the athletes were welcomed by Pune 2008 mascot Jigrr, this was a fantastic opportunity for our young Northern Ireland representatives to meet with competitors from the 71 competiting nations.