Media Release
Mangaluru, Oct 31: A rare spectacle of skill and precision unfolded at Ladyhill English Medium Higher Primary School (ICSE) on October 28, as the school proudly hosted the 10-metre open-sight air rifle interschool shooting competition — a celebration of focus, discipline, and sporting excellence.
This rare event commenced on a grand note as the school band led a spirited escort, welcoming the esteemed chief guests Fr Lanson Pinto, assistant parish priest of Urwa church, and Lt Col Gratian Sequeira, former commanding officer, 18 Kar NCC Bn, Mangaluru along with Sr Maria Kripa AC, joint secretary of Ladyhill Institutions, and other esteemed dignitaries into the hall with grace and reverence. The rhythmic beats of the band and the warm applause of the audience set the perfect tone for the inspiring day ahead.
The programme opened with a soulful prayer song, as young voices rose in harmony, filling the air with divine grace. This was followed by the warm and heartfelt words of welcome delivered by Lavita Correa.
Later, Fr Lanson Pinto, along with other dignitaries, inaugurated the event by lighting the lamp, symbolizing the light of knowledge and excellence. Lt Col Gratian Sequeira, along with other dignitaries, then unveiled the logo of the event in a unique and graceful way by unfolding the wings of a butterfly, signifying growth, transformation, and the spirit of soaring high.
The chief guests graced the gathering with words that echoed wisdom and inspiration, lighting a spark of motivation in every heart. As they addressed the students, their voices carried a message of courage to aim high, to stay steadfast in determination, and to let every shot fired be a step closer to excellence. With heartfelt blessings, they wished the young marksmen and markswomen great success in the competition.
Following this, the joint secretary of Ladyhill Institutions, Sr Maria Kripa AC, officially declared the shooting event open by unveiling the ribbon, marking the dawn of an exciting competition. The moment grew even more memorable as all the dignitaries took their aim and fired the inaugural shots, symbolizing focus, courage, and the true spirit of sportsmanship.
Later, talented students from various schools across Dakshina Kannada participated in the event, showcasing their skill and precision in the shooting competition.
As the event drew to a close in the evening, the award ceremony unfolded under the gracious leadership of Sr Maria Kripa AC, in the esteemed presence of PTA vice president Paresh Narendra, coach Mukesh, and physical education teacher Sapna Anil. Joy filled the hall as the proud winners of the U-13, U-15, and U-17 categories, both boys and girls, stepped forward to receive their medals, trophies, and applause.
The highlight of the ceremony was the recognition of the top scorers. In the boys’ category, Aaditya Anil Shet from Canara High School, Urwa, emerged as the top scorer, showcasing remarkable precision and composure. In the girls’ category, Saanvi PK from St Aloysius Gonzaga School, Mangaluru, claimed the top position with her unwavering focus and graceful aim.
The event was seamlessly compered by Sherine Vinod and Sonia Fernandes. Merlyn D’Souza expressed heartfelt gratitude through a warm vote of thanks, acknowledging every hand and heart that made the event a success. Thus, the memorable day concluded on a note of pride and high spirits, leaving echoes of inspiration in every heart.