11TH IFCR WORLD FESTIVAL

IN

INDIA

CHENNAI

12TH FEB 2024 TO 16TH FEB 2024

IFCR Mini World Festival 2024

**IFCR Mini World Festival 2024: A Celebration of Fellowship and Cricket**

*Chennai, February 11th - 16th, 2024*

In the heart of Chennai, amidst the vibrant spirit of fellowship and the resounding cheers of cricket enthusiasts, the IFCR Mini World Festival 2024 unfolded, marking a glorious celebration of camaraderie and sportsmanship. Hosted by IFCR Chennai (RI DISTRICT 3232), this event transcended boundaries, bringing together Rotarians from across the globe for a week-long extravaganza of cricket and fellowship. Rotarians from India, Australia, West Indies, South Africa and England were part of this mini-Festival.

The festival commenced on February 11th with a warm reception and registration at Hotel Halez, setting the stage for what promised to be an unforgettable series of events. The excitement reached its peak during the curtain-raiser, where teams were formed, each bearing the name of Rotary stalwarts: Paul Harris (PH XI), Gustavus Loehr (GL XI), Silvester Schiele (SH XI), and Hiram E. Shorey (HS XI). The fellowship continued with a delightful dinner, fostering bonds that would last a lifetime.

From February 12th to 15th, the cricket grounds of Chennai witnessed intense battles as teams competed in exhilarating matches. With matches starting promptly at 10:00 AM, players showcased their skills with the red leather ball, adhering to the finest traditions of the gentleman's game. Each match, played over 35 overs per side, exemplified the essence of fair play and competitive spirit.

The rules, meticulously crafted to ensure parity and excitement, added an extra layer of thrill to every encounter. From batsmen retiring after scoring 35 runs to strategic bowling rotations, every aspect of the game was thoughtfully designed to promote balanced competition and enjoyment for players and spectators alike. Off the field, the organizing committee left no stone unturned in ensuring a seamless experience for all participants. From logistics and venue management to hospitality and accreditation, every detail was meticulously executed, earning accolades from participants and supporters alike.

The festival was not merely about cricket; it was a celebration of Rotary's values of service, friendship, and community. Feedback from participants reflected the overwhelming appreciation for the warmth of Chennai's hospitality and the spirit of camaraderie that permeated every aspect of the event. As the festival drew to a close on February 16th with exhibition matches, the memories forged on the cricket field and the bonds of friendship forged off it will continue to resonate in the hearts of participants for years to come.

The IFCR Mini World Festival 2024 in Chennai stands as a testament to the power of fellowship to unite individuals across borders and cultures, reaffirming Rotary's commitment to making a positive impact on communities worldwide. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the organizers, participants, sponsors, and supporters for making this event a resounding success.

In the words of Rtn. Neelakantan R, Convener, and Rtn. KRP Sarathy, Coordinator, "Playing cricket with friends is like stepping into a world where worries disappear, only the sound of the bat hitting the ball matters!" Indeed, the IFCR Mini World Festival encapsulated the joy of sportsmanship and the spirit of Rotary fellowship in its purest form under the dyanamic leadership of District Governor Rtn Ravi Raman.

In addition to the festivities, the IFCR World Annual General Meeting (AGM) was convened during the event. During this meeting, transitions in the IFCR World Committee positions were announced. The outgoing IFCR World Chair, Rtn KRP Sarathy, conveyed his gratitude to all participants and expressed his appreciation to the organizers of the IFCR Mini World Cup and the IFCR World Festival in Chennai. He also extended his thanks to Rtn Jagannathan and his team for their outstanding efforts in organizing the event.

The transition of IFCR World Committee positions was as follows:

- **IFCR World Chairman: ** Vipul Patel of IFCR India was unanimously elected as the International Chairman of the IFCR World Body.

- **Vice Chairman: ** Arthur Manser of IFCR Australia assumed the role of Vice Chairman.

- **Secretary: ** Neelakantan (Neel) of IFCR India was appointed as the Secretary of the IFCR World Body.

The term for the newly elected office bearers will last until the next IFCR World festival scheduled for 2026. The specifics of this event will be communicated to all members by the new committee.

Rtn KRP Sarathy congratulated the newly elected team and expressed his best wishes for their future endeavors in revitalizing IFCR activities worldwide. He also entrusted Neel, the newly appointed International Secretary, with the task of drafting and circulating the minutes of the AGM to all country heads promptly. Additionally, he requested Neel to update the international website with information regarding the activities of IFCR over the past few years and details of the Chennai Mini World Festival 2024.

In conclusion, Rtn KRP Sarathy expressed his gratitude to all members for their support during his tenure as International Chair. He pledged to continue serving IFCR in any capacity necessary to further its mission and goals.

Jagannathan Maraimalai

Chairman IFCR CHENNAI: +919840836834