Every June long weekend, the Sikh community hold a two day event at Ted Scobie Oval against the backdrop of Scenic Hill in Griffith.
Over 15,000 people are expected for the weekend of sports at the 21st Shaheedi Tournament in Griffith, NSW.
The annual meet is a representation of the Sikh community’s competitive spirit, an event that forms an integral part of the community’s social calendar.
The games organising committee have invited everyone for this two day spectacle of sport & culture, which is to be enjoyed by young and old alike.
The organising committee member, Jaswinder Singh Maavi says the major attraction is Kabaddi, a hugely popular sport within the Punjabi community.
Source: Supplied
“The games registration process is complete. We have a huge response for soccer, athletics and Kabaddi. More than 10 teams will compete for the Kabaddi title,” says Mr Singh.
“The preparations are in the final stages. We will look after our guests with free food and drinks. The attendees can enjoy traditional Punjabi cuisine throughout the two day carnival.”
“This event marks the days of storming of the Darbar Sahib, the Sikh community’s holiest and most historic shrine, by Indian troops in 1984.”
“We pay the homage and the personal sense of suffering and injustice felt by Sikhs worldwide, during the attack and in the aftermath of the violence which resulted in the injury and death of thousands of innocent men, women, and children in Punjab.”
On behalf of the organizing committee, Mr Singh made a special request for car parking.
Sweets preparation at the Sikh Temple, Griffith Source: Supplied
"Please do not park or stop your vehicle near an intersection, on the lawn area, obstruct access to and from a footpath and driveway."
“There is a parking fine for stopping in or near an intersection - penalty $253. Or there could be a $108 fine for obstructing access to and from a footpath and driveway.”
"Weather is smiling for the games. It is a bit cold but sunny days will welcome our guests. There is no rain with a maximum of 15 to 17°C," says Mr Singh.
Since this event has a religious significance, the organizing committee has requested all guests to help maintain a non-alcoholic environment.
SBS Punjabi's Preetinder Singh Grewal with one of the spectators at the Griffith Sikh Games 2016. Source: Supplied
