Griffith ready to host the annual Sikh Games: Shaheedi Tournament 2019

Griffith will mark the 23rd chapter of the annual Shaheedi Tournament on 8th and 9th June 2019. An estimated 12,000 to 15,000 people are expected to attend this year's sports meet.

The food preparations are in full swing at the Gurdwara Singh Sabha Society, Griffith. Source: Supplied

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 12,000 people are expected for the weekend of sports at the 23rd Shaheedi Tournament in Griffith, NSW this year.

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.

Anup Singh Nagra who is the Secretary of the Gurdwara Singh Sabha Society, Griffith, told SBS Punjabi that the special arrangements have been made for the two-day spectacle of sport and culture.

“The preparations are in the final stages now. The games registration process is complete. We have a huge response for soccer, volleyball, athletics and Kabaddi,” he said.

“We will look after our guests with free food and drinks [Langar]. The attendees will be able to enjoy traditional Punjabi cuisine throughout the two-day carnival.”

Mr Nagra said the major attraction of the tournament is Kabaddi, which is a hugely popular sport within the Punjabi community.

“The Kabaddi event is of course the most eagerly awaited sports at the Ted Scobie Oval in Griffith,” he said.

“At least seven teams are lined up for this year’s competition. The spectators will be able to watch some big names of Kabaddi from Australia, India, New Zealand and Canada.”

Mr Nagra said that the Shaheedi Tournament in Griffith is organised in the memory and honour of martyrs who sacrificed their lives for their elite faith and Sikh values of life.

"Since this event has a religious significance, we request all guests to help maintain a non-alcoholic environment," he said.

19th Griffith Shaheedi Tournament — Kabaddi is expected to attract big crowds at the tournament. Source: Supplied

Mr Nagra said that they are expecting sunny weather over the weekend.

"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 17°C," he said.

“We extend our warm invitation to everyone and hope that the event will be enjoyed by young and old alike."

Tournament in Griffith also provides an opportunity for people living in metropolitan cities to visit Griffith and enjoy the hospitality provided by the local community.

The 2018 Tournament was attended by over 12,000 people from Australia, New Zealand and other countries.

Every year the Tournament is growing and attracting more and more people to Griffith. According to an estimate, this year’s Tournament will be attended by 12,000 to 15,000 people.

Here is a list of major sports events that will be part of this year’s sports meet: