A little over a week ago, 2010's biggest sporting (?) extravaganza came to an end. A spectacular finish for India, with over a hundred medals and the 2nd spot in the overall rankings.
The 19th Common Wealth Games (CWG) which, for most of this year, drew much criticism from within the country and outside for shoddy preparations, later seemed to transform Delhi during their 12-day run in the capital. Embroiled in controversy, CWG was badly hit by the erratic late monsoon pattern, poor construction, petty bickering, conflicting (hidden) agendas; all resulting in seemingly-endless delays. But a mad dash to a brilliant opening ceremony (thankfully, without Bollywood in tow) set the tone for the remainder of the event.
Never has Delhi witnessed so much discipline on the roads! Stern-looking security guards at every street corner ensured it became a fortress, albeit a gorgeous one. Delhi's famous green cover too shone and aerial shots of Lutyen's zone reversed much of the damage done to its reputation over the past few months. CP's gleaming white pillars and buildings proudly displayed their decades-old heritage, beautifully blending into modern-day Rajiv Chowk, with its hi-tech underground Metro hub.
While the Games passed off peacefully, were sportsmanship and fair play ever in the minds of the Organizing Committee (OC) / Delhi Govt. / Sports Ministry / misc other (important) officials who were entrusted with the responsibility of conducting this grand event? Its a given now that there was rampant corruption and blatant abuse of power at every level and as investigations get underway, we are subjected to mud-slinging fests and blame games. Such a pity!
On a positive note, a huge round of applause for our sports women and men who brought us laurels in an international (non-cricketing) arena. Lets hope the new generation of Delhi and indeed, the rest of the country, view sports in a new light and work towards greater goals. Lets hope also that the stadia and other training facilities built in and around Delhi serve to hone the skills of this new talent and encourage more youngsters to take up sport professionally. Lets finally hope that the CWG mess doesn't spoil the country's future in sport.
At the stroke of the midnight hour
