LANKA TRIBUNE

September 2007 Issue 1

Softball cricket tournament in aid of DEAF and BLIND

Deaf and Blind Aid Lanka (DABAL) yet another charitable organisation in the UK conducted successfully their inaugural seven a side softball Cricket tournament on Sunday the 2nd September.

The matches were played at the Preston Manor High School in London in the presence of a large gathering. The organisers were the newest and the youngest of Deaf and Blind Aid Lanka Ruwini Dharmasiri and Miriam Sahota supported by Contact Sri Lanka.

What was refreshing and encouraging was the participation of over 30 teams drawn from the multiplicity of ethnic backgrounds of Sri Lanka.

The enthusiastic spectators, stall holders and sponsors too reflected this rich diversity as they enjoyed the traditional Sri Lankan dishes prepared by members of the Sri Lankan community; Sinhalese, Tamil and Muslims.

This is in keeping with the objectives of DABAL which is to help the Deaf and Blind of Rural Sri Lanka irrespective of racial or religious background.

It was heartening to see so many young Sri Lankans supporting the work of this Charity and having a day of fun in typical Sri Lankan spirit.

The local MP Hon Mr Barry Gradiner who was scheduled to attend could not do so due to illness. However he was represented by the Leader of the Local Labour Party Councillor Mr Jim Moher. The Deputy High Commissioner Mr Ganegamaaratchchi too graced the occasion. It is hoped that this will be the beginning of a series of events organised by DABAL to collect funds for their charitable work in Sri Lanka.