The Senior School Sports Day 2025–26 dawned upon the campus with an air of exuberant anticipation, as the grounds transformed into a grand amphitheatre of colour, camaraderie and athletic fervour. Students, teachers and parents assembled in impressive numbers, lending the morning an atmosphere reminiscent of a classical festival of sport, where discipline, pageantry and youthful vitality converged in harmonious splendour. The meticulous planning and coordination by the Sports Committee of St. Columba’s School ensured that the day unfolded with remarkable smoothness and precision.

The school had the privilege of welcoming its Chief Guest, Mr Mansher Singh, the illustrious shooting Olympian and four-time gold medallist, whose distinguished career and steadfast dedication to excellence have earned him admiration across the nation. His presence imbued the proceedings with a sense of dignity and aspiration befitting such a celebrated occasion.

With the formal declaration of the meet, the Columban Torchbearers set the field alight with their ceremonial run, bearing the symbolic flame of perseverance and unity. A moment of quiet yet profound significance followed as the ex–Sports Captain entrusted the School Flag to the current Sports Captain, marking the ceremonial continuum of leadership, responsibility and the profound honour of representing the institution.

The March Past emerged as the morning’s most resplendent spectacle. Leading the contingents with admirable composure were

Sports Captain Arjit Dhiman and Sports Vice-Captain Hariaksh Maggo,

both of whom served as the Student Heads for the event. Their poised leadership, dignified demeanour and disciplined command lent the parade its distinctive grandeur. The synchronised precision of the houses and the collective confidence displayed on the field reflected the unerring Columban commitment to excellence. The Oath Taking Ceremony that followed reaffirmed the values of fairness, respect and integrity that underpin all sporting endeavour.

The athletic events commenced with palpable vigour. The sprints, middle distance races and field events showcased the remarkable talent and tireless dedication of the senior school athletes.

A particularly touching highlight of the day was the Friendly Races, in which children from partner NGOs participated alongside Columban students. The sincerity, enthusiasm and uninhibited joy seen on the track created a moment of profound warmth. It stood as a gentle reminder that sport possesses a rare ability to unite, uplift and dissolve barriers.

Adding to the historic significance of this year’s meet was the introduction of the Inter School 4x100 metre Relay Races for both girls and boys. The participation of some of the top schools of Delhi NCR infused the field with vibrant, spirited competition. The thrilling baton exchanges and close finishes held the audience in rapt attention and contributed to the elevated stature of this year’s meet.

The announcement of results marked the culmination of the day’s efforts, celebrating the excellence demonstrated by both individuals and houses. The accolades were as follows

Best Overall House: Br McKeogh House (Green House)

Best Marching House: Br Leonard House (Blue House)

Best Yoga House: Br Crease House (Red House)

Best Athlete Division A: Arjit Dhiman

Best Athlete Division B: Aditya Rana

Best Athlete Division C: Aryan Nath

Then the Principal, Br. Robert addressed the gathering, commending the athletes for their outstanding performances and expressing gratitude to the faculty, volunteers and the Sports Committee, whose unwavering dedication ensured the day’s seamless execution. This was followed by the Vote of Thanks delivered by the Senior School Headmaster Mr. Naresh Chopra, acknowledging the hard work put in by the teacher coordinator for the event, Mr Dennis Mathew and contributions of all who shaped the success of the meet.

The Senior School Sports Day 2025–26 concluded as a memorable testament to athletic excellence.