Simple, meaningful rites open 25th SEA Games
By Eddie Alinea
PhilBoxing.com
Thu, 10 Dec 2009
Laos? simplicity and meeting its commitment characterized the formal opening rites of the 25th Southeast Asian Games Wednesday night.
Modest yet colorful, well-organized yet warm was the conduct of the ceremonies that welcomed thousands of SEAG family members, impressed as indicated by their enthusiasm inside the recently-completed National Sports Complex here.
The 35-year-old nation of roughly 6.5 million people serenaded its guests with songs of passion accompanied by violins and indigenous instruments to set the mood of the evening marking Laos? first date with 10 SEAG member countries.
Brunei, Myanmar, Cambodia, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Timor Leste and the Philippines were also treated to a cultural show that may not have been as fancy as those choreographed by veteran host nations but certainly interesting coming from a freshman.
?The opening rites clearly showed that Laos is a very hardworking nation,? observed Mario Tanchangco, the chef de mission of the Philippine delegation.
As in past SEAG opening rites, the lighting of the Games torch drew the most sensation as even those who could not enter the sports complex, built with the substantial support of the People?s Republic of China, cheered for the host country.
Champa and Champi, the elephant mascots clad in pink and violet, ushered in performers, who dazzled the guests, including the some 5,000 athletes, coaches, team and delegation officials of 11-member nation, with color and artistry and gave them more than a peek at the rich cultural history of Laos.
Deputy Prime Minister Somsavat Lengsavad, Chairman of the Organizing Committee, was a vision of pride when he made his report to fellow SEAG Federation members and was probably even prouder that the country responded to the hosting challenge in a very remarkable manner.
National University classes were suspended to free students from their schedules and render volunteer work for the SEAG.
?I am proud to be part of the SEAG,?? declared a young college student in halting English, a language Laos nationals are keen on learning well.
President Choumaly Xaxusone did the honors of declaring the Games open and in doing so, placed Laosas one of the success stories of the 50-year-old Southeast Asian Games.
Click here to view a list of other articles written by Eddie Alinea.
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