An Indian style farewell was held in Auckland last weekend for the New Zealand Swimming team marked as it embarked for the Delhi 2010 Commonwealth Games.
The official farewell organised by Swimming New Zealand included an array of traditional Indian costume, food, art, music and sculptures.
Kumar Bajaj who is travelling to the Delhi Games as part of the Indian Contingent was invited to speak at the event and give the young athletes and their family’s advice in their travels to India.
There have been a lot of doubts surrounding the Delhi 2010 games but Kumar believes when it comes to the pride of the community the Indian people will make it happen.
“Let’s brush aside any feelings of negativity or adverse publicity and let us go with a positive attitude, enjoy the games, win some medals and above all enjoy the cultural experience,” says Mr Bajaj.
Distinguished guests who attended the event included North Shore City Mayor Andrew Williams, Chairman of New Zealand Olympic Committee and the official New Zealand swimmers and management.
The Delhi 2010 Commonwealth Games begin on October 3, 2010.