The National DPS Swimming Meet (Boys) 2024, hosted by Delhi Public School, Aligarh, was a grand spectacle of sportsmanship and athletic prowess. With over 200 participants from 51 teams nationwide, the event was a celebration of youthful energy and competitive spirit. Distinguished guests, including Ms. Nita Kumar, Joint Director Activities of DPS Society, and Mr. KVSM Krishna, Director Emeritus of Pavna International School, graced the two days event. The ceremony began with a warm welcome of the guests by Mrs. Arti Jha, Principal DPS Aligarh.
The cultural performances that followed were a vibrant display of talent and tradition. The flag hoisting ceremony, led by the Chief Guest, was a moment of pride and unity, followed by an inspiring speech from Ms. KVSM Krishna, who emphasized the role of sports in shaping character and instilling values of perseverance and integrity. The Chief Guest then officially declared the meet open, which was followed by the athletes taking an oath to compete with fairness and respect. A patriotic song presentation and a dance presentation EXPRESSIONS, highlighting the challenges faced by youth, further added to the ceremony's grandeur, showcasing the cultural diversity and unity of the nation.
As the meet progressed, the athletes displayed remarkable determination and skill across 15 events, competing fiercely yet fairly. In the closing ceremony, mementos were presented to the officials and distinguished guests as a token of appreciation, followed by the much- anticipated felicitation ceremony. The winners were awarded medals and certificates, with DPS Navi Mumbai emerging as the second runner-up, DPS Bangalore South as the first runner-up, DPS RK Puram being crowned the overall champion and Rehaan Sejwal from DPS RK Puramwas named the Best Swimmer of the meet.
In her closing speech, Ms. Nita Kumar congratulated all the participants and winners, urging them to carry forward the spirit of sportsmanship and to strive for excellence in all their endeavors. The retreat ceremony, marked by the lowering of the flag, was a solemn reminder of the end of the meet, but not of the friendships and memories created.