PANAJI: The Queen’s Baton Relay, which arrived in Goa was given a warm reception at a main official function held at Kala Academy, Campal in the city on Tuesday where Governor of Goa, Dr S S Sidhu was the chief guest.

The Governor also released a special postal cover honouring five Goan Olympians on the occasion.

Speaker of Goa Legislative Assembly, Mr Pratapsingh Rane, Sports Minister, Mr Manohar Azgaonkar, MP North, Mr Shripad Naik, Chief Secretary, Mr Sanjay Srivastava, President of Goa Olympic Association, Mr Subhash Shirodkar graced the occasion.

Speaking on the occasion, the Governor said it is a proud moment for Goans to receive Queen’s Baton in Goa as he praised Leo Pinto, Walter D’Souza, Lawery Fernandes, Maxy Vaz and Reggie Rodrigues for being the five Goan sportspersons who were honoured with a place on the postal cover.

The Governor also complimented ace Goan swimmer Talasha Prabhu, who will be participating in the forthcoming Commonwealth Games.

The Governor said the Commonwealth Games will also be environment friendly, which will be known as ‘Green Games’. More than 30,000 trees will be planted in Goa during the Games, Dr Sidhu added.

Shri Pratapsingh Rane said Baton signifies unity in the form of sports. Goans will showcase their sportsmanship during the games, he added.

Arjun Awardee Bruno Coutinho received the Baton at the gate of Kala Academy and handed it over to the Governor. Sports Minister, Mr Ajgaonkar said, Goa has given much importance to sports. The Government has started giving special marks to students who excel in sports and till now more than 2500 students have been the beneficiaries.

Mr Shripad Naik, MP, Lt. General Kardyan, Additional Director General, Queen’s Baton Relay, New Delhi, Mr Charles Lobo, Post Master General also spoke on the occasion. Mr Subhash Shirodkar welcomed the guests. Secretary of Sports and Youth Affairs, Dr M Modassir, Mr V M Prabhudessai, Executive Director, SAG, Mr Sanjay Datta of Hero Honda were also present on the occasion.