Compassion Amid Calamity
Loud cheers echoed across the stadium as a young boy in a red T-shirt bearing the Lions logo crossed the finish line. This was no ordinary sports meet — it was the first-ever event for athletes with intellectual disabilities, organized by the Chandigarh Central Lions Club, District 321F, in collaboration with Special Olympics Bharat, Chandigarh. Aptly titled ‘Prerana,’ the inspiring event was held on September 27-28, 2025, at the Athletic Track Sports Complex, in Sector 7, Chandigarh.
About 270 children from fifteen schools participated in six track events including the 100m, 200m, and 400m races, as well as relays. For many of these young athletes, it was their first time competing on a real athletic field. As the races began, hesitation gave way to excitement. Every stride, and every smile told its own story of courage and joy. There were no anxious glances at a scoreboard and no tense silence at the finish line. Instead, there was laughter, high-fives, and unguarded happiness, as every participant was cheered on by the teachers, parents, Lions and volunteers.
True to their spirit of service, Chandigarh Central Lions Club extended Prerana beyond the track by organizing free health check-up camps for all participants in collaboration with local healthcare partners.
- DentisTree (Dental Implant & Orthodontic Centre) conducted dental examinations.
- Dr. Vasundhara Mehrotra and her team from the Advanced Homeopathic Healthcare Centre provided consultations and medicines.
- Doctors from the Government Medical College & Hospital, Sector 32 carried out eye check-ups.
- FitFeet (Podiatry Clinic) offered foot and ankle health screenings to support the athletes’ mobility.
It was a thoughtful blend of health, care, and inclusion — ensuring that every child received not just applause but attention.
The Closing Ceremony, held on September 28, was graced by Hon’ble Shri Justice Vikas Bahl, Judge of the Punjab and Haryana High Court, as Chief Guest, along with PDG Yogesh Soni. Each participant received a medal, certificate, and drawing kit — small tokens that carried immense pride.
For these children, the medals were only symbols; the real triumph lay in participation, friendship, and self-belief.
For these children, the medals were only symbols; the real triumph lay in participation, friendship, and self-belief.
Between the presentations, the audience was treated to heartfelt performances by children with special needs: a lively Haryanvi dance, a joyous Bhangra, and soulful songs that earned standing ovations. Throughout the event, nutritious meals, fruits, and refreshments were provided to the children and their families.
The event received widespread recognition, covered by four television channels and ten newspapers. Parents and teachers expressed deep appreciation for the Lions’ initiative, which combined sport, health, and joy in equal measure. Encouraged by this success, Chandigarh Central Lions Club pledged continued collaboration with Special Olympics Bharat, Chandigarh, to host future editions.
For the children, it was not merely a sports meet — it was a day of belonging and celebration. For the Lions, it was a reaffirmation of their timeless motto — We Serve — by standing beside those whose victories are measured not in seconds, but in smiles.