As 2011 drew to a close, hundreds of athletes gathered to take part in Ismaili Games held in Uganda and Kenya. Featuring a wide range of sports, the Games offered opportunities for members of the Jamat to come together and celebrate through competition and camaraderie.
In Uganda, some 140 athletes registered to compete in nine sports that were held at three venues in Kampala. Darkhana Jamatkhana served as the primary site for the Games, hosting volleyball, badminton, table tennis, throw ball, chess, and carom. Participation was widespread, with strong representation from women in the Jamat, who represented nearly one third of the athletes.
While the main event took place over three days between 21-23 October, qualification rounds took place in the weeks prior. As athletes competed into the wee hours of the morning, spectators were served a continuous supply of sweetened chai. “It was a truly unforgettable time for the Ugandan Jamat,” said one Jamati member.
via The Ismaili: Hundreds of Ismailis gather in Kampala and Nairobi to take part in Ismaili Games.
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