Report and Pics: Bellevision
Abu Dhabi, Jan 22: Bunts Dubai men's team managed to beat Konkans Dubai in an electrifying thriller to take home the most prestigious Koosamma Shambu Shetty Memorial (KSSM) Trophy 2017. The ladies throw ball team of Bunts Dubai emerged winner in a closely fought finals defeating Mangalore Konkans Dubai team. Abu Dhabi Karnataka Sangha mens and ladies throw ball teams defeated Coastal Friends UAE teams to emerge as 2nd runners-up.
The prestigious KSSM tournament, organized every year in memory of the late Koosamma Shambu Shetty, mother of Padmashree Dr B R Shetty, was held on Friday January 20 at Abu Dhabi Indian School ground. The event began at 10 am with a warm welcome accorded by the president of Abu Dhabi Karnataka Sangha and main convener of the tournament Sarvotham Shetty. This was the 27th year this tournament was played.
The day-long sports event, which was witnessed by a large number of sports enthusiasts as well as families, was inaugurated by family members of Dr B R Shetty in the company of several dignitaries. The tournament was declared open by releasing balloons in the air.
Sarvotham Shetty, president of Abu Dhabi Karnataka Sangha welcomed the guests on the dias and briefed about the tournament.
The inaugural match was played between Abu Dhabi Karnataka Sangha and Mangalore United.
In the throwball tournament for men and women, eight teams viz Abu Dhabi Karnataka Sangha, K C O Abu Dhabi, Bunts Dubai, Mangalore Konkans, Mogaveers UAE, Coastal Friends UAE, Konkans Dubai, and Mangalore United participated.
Naveen Salian, Shiva Shetty, Daniel, Dancy and Deepthi functioned as referees.
Ranjith Shetty of Bunts Dubai was adjudged the best striker, Shivakumar of Bunts Dubai the best defender, and Roydon Pereira of Konkans Dubai was awarded the all rounder title in the men’s throwball, whereas, Ishta of Bunts Dubai was presented the best striker award, Akshatha Shetty of Bunts Dubai the best defender, and Pramitha D'Souza of Mangalore Konkans the title of all rounder.
The special commentator of the day Vinod Shetty added thrill and spark to the matches with his wonderful and humorous commentary.
At the end, a 4x100mts relay for men and women was held.
In the concluding prize distribution ceremony, all the winners and runners-up were given trophies and cash prizes.
Delicious lunch and evening snacks and beverages were served from Foodlands restaurant.