“Sainik School has trained me for life” – Major General C.S. Mann, AVSM, VSM
Kapurthala News (Pawan Dhupar): The three-day 62nd Annual Athletic Meet of Sainik School Kapurthala concluded today with a vibrant cultural programme. The Chief Guest for the closing ceremony was Major General C.S. Mann, AVSM, VSM, Additional Director General, Army Design Bureau (ADB), who is also a proud alumnus of the school. Upon his arrival, General Mann paid floral tributes at the school’s Martyrs’ Memorial, honouring the brave soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice for the nation.
The final day of the event witnessed an impressive March Past, followed by captivating displays of Aerobics, Gymnastics, Band performance, Bhangra, and thrilling Track and Field events.
In his inspiring valedictory address, Major General Mann said,
> “It is a matter of great honour for me to be here today as the Chief Guest of the 62nd Annual Athletic Meet. This moment is deeply emotional for me. Sainik School Kapurthala laid the foundation of my life’s journey. It is not merely a school—it is a place where cadets are moulded into men and women of character, courage, and commitment.
> When I first joined this institution, the initial days were tough—the rigorous training, early morning PT, long academic hours, and strict discipline seemed overwhelming. But gradually, I adapted. It was here that I learned to push my limits, to rise after every fall, and to find strength in camaraderie. The challenges I faced here became the bedrock of my personality.
> Standing on this ground today fills me with immense pride and gratitude. This field has witnessed my struggles and triumphs alike. Sainik School trained me not just for sports—but for life itself.”
Addressing the cadets, he added,
> “Being a Saikapian is not just about wearing a badge—it is a responsibility. Wherever life takes you, uphold the values of discipline, dedication, and excellence that this school has instilled in you. Go forth to the NDA and serve the motherland with patriotism and pride. Remember—nothing is greater than one’s own country.
> I also wish to assure all parents present here that your children are in safe and capable hands.”
The Best House Trophy in the Holding House category was won by Nalwa House, while Sarojini House bagged the title in the Junior category and Bhagat House in the Senior category.
In individual performances, Ansh Chaudhary was adjudged the Best Athlete (Senior), Shivam Baghel won in the Junior category, and Mayan Bhaskar in the Holding House category.
To commemorate the contribution of late Mr. M.S. Bajwa, a dedicated teacher of the school, his family presented cash awards to outstanding performers across various events — Mayan (Nalwa House), Shivam (Lajpat House), Ansh (Patel House), Krishna Saini (Girls – Holding House), Smita (Girls VII–VIII, Sarojini House), and Aarushi (IX–X, Patel House).
Earlier, the Principal, Group Captain Madhu Sengar, extended a warm welcome to the Chief Guest, expressing heartfelt gratitude for sparing valuable time to grace the occasion. The event was also attended by Commander Sandeep Singh Virk, Vice Principal; Lt Col Umesh Mole, Administrative Officer; Captain Gurjeet Singh (Merchant Navy); and several other distinguished guests.
The ceremony concluded with a Vote of Thanks delivered by the Vice Principal, Commander Sandeep Singh Virk, who expressed appreciation to the Chief Guest, dignitaries, staff, and cadets for their contribution to the successful conduct of the event.
Results of the Final Events:
1. Shot Put (Senior):
1st – Chetan Mishra (Tilak)
2nd – Ansh Chaudhary (Patel)
3rd – Navroop Singh (Bhagat)
2. 200 m (Senior):
1st – Ansh Chaudhary (Patel)
2nd – Mayank (Patel)
3rd – Kunal Chib (Azad)
3. 4×100 m Relay (Junior):
1st – Shivam, Smaraniya, Ansh, Shaurya (Lajpat)
2nd – Siddharth, Beeru, Dilpreet, Abhay (Tagore)
3rd – Gaurav, Aditya, Avinash, Nitesh (Chittaranjan)
4. 4×100 m Relay (Senior):
1st – Ansh, Manan, Harshit (Patel)
2nd – Vansh, Amit, Aatish, Gajraj (Tilak)
3rd – Kunal, Jasnapreet, Jashandeep, Abhay (Azad)
5. 3000 m (Senior):
1st – Akshit (Bhagat)
2nd – Divyanshu (Bhagat)
3rd – Harmanjot (Tilak)
6. 100 m (Holding House):
1st – Naman (Nalwa)
2nd – Dipesh (Nalwa)
3rd – Rajbir (Nalwa)
