In a memorable event held today at the Netaji Sports Complex, the Directorate of Sports & Youth Affairs (DSYA), A&N Administration, organized a felicitation ceremony to honour celebrated Indian long jumper and sports icon Anju Bobby George. The event drew a crowd of over 250 enthusiastic sports trainees from various corners of the Islands, all eager to interact with the trailblazing athlete.
Anju Bobby George, who is in the Islands as the Ambassador for the upcoming ANC–ANA Half Marathon 2025, was welcomed by Shri Vikram Singh, Director (Sports & Youth Affairs), who also highlighted the Directorate’s ongoing free coaching initiatives in multiple sports disciplines. During her visit, the Olympian also toured Sri Vijaya Puram as part of her official engagements.
In an engaging interactive session, Anju shared her inspiring journey, from beginning athletics at the age of five to becoming the first Indian to win a medal at the World Athletics Championships, where she clinched bronze in Paris in 2003. She further solidified her legacy with a gold medal win at the 2005 IAAF World Athletics Final and has represented India in numerous Olympic Games.
Offering practical life lessons, she urged the aspiring athletes to maintain a healthy balance between academics and sports, limit screen time, stay away from drugs, and commit to consistent training. She emphasized self-belief, learning from setbacks, and the importance of being one’s role model.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Shri Mohd. Sadique, Coach, SAI, Sri Vijaya Puram, expressed gratitude to the guest and participants for making the interaction truly enriching and motivational.
