Horse, bicycle polo matches in Greater Noida on February 6-7

The coming weekend promises a lot of excitement to sports fans in the twin cities of Noida and Greater Noida. The authority will organise horse polo and cycle polo events February 6 and 7 at the Sector 37 zonal sports complex in Greater Noida.

The coming weekend promises a lot of excitement to sports fans in the twin cities of Noida and Greater Noida. The authority will organise horse polo and cycle polo events February 6 and 7 at the Sector 37 zonal sports complex in Greater Noida.

The matches will be held at the Sector 37 zonal sports complex in Greater Noida on February 6 and 7.(Sunil Ghosh/Photo for representation)

The Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority on Monday said the matches will begin at 11am and end at 5pm on both days. Winners of the horse polo will be awarded the Diplomat’s Cup and Bharat Polo Cup.

“Three teams will fight for the two trophies. Teams from the Indian Navy, Bharat Polo Association and Greater Noida Authority will participate in both the polo matches. Some residents of Greater Noida city will also participate in the tournaments,” said Rajiv Tyagi, deputy general manager, Greater Noida authority.

The authority officials said they have invited the Chief of Naval Staff and ambassadors from France and Germany. They are is now trying to get the marching bands of the ITBP and CRPF to perform at the event.

Organisers said cycle polo was being held for the first time in the city and were optimistic of an enthusiastic response from the audience. The authority has also decided to organise several cultural activities on the two days.

“We have planned to showcase the cultural heritage of Uttar Pradesh. A fusion dance showcasing cultural heritage of Tharu, an ethnic community from Lakhimpur Kheri, is planned. Their art, food, rituals, music and dance will be showcased,” an official of the Greater Noida authority said.

“Cultural events of the Tharu community are inspired from their focus on ecological balance. As the younger generation has access to modern education, they are keen on sports programmes. They are learning to embrace traditional values as well as contemporary life skills for a better socio-economic future,” the official said.

“The 10-minute performance by Tharu girls and boys will provide spectators a sneak peek of their aspirations to become equal partners in modern society,” the official said.