Click here for Ignite 2026 Photo Album
Barkur: A spirited afternoon of sport and fellowship unfolded on 27 September 2026 as ICYM Barkur hosted IGNITE '26 – Golden Jubilee Edition, an inter-parish sports tournament, at SVVN English Medium School, Heradi, Barkur. Play began at 1:00 PM and carried on into the evening, drawing teams and supporters from across the participating parishes.
The tournament was conceived as a celebration of the Golden Jubilee milestone. It brought parishes together for friendly competition, teamwork and community spirit, with organizers hoping to strengthen ties among the participating parishes in a true spirit of sportsmanship. Parishioners, families, well-wishers and members of the public had been warmly invited to attend and cheer on the players.
Inauguration
The opening ceremony was graced by Fr Ronald Miranda, Parish Priest and ICYM Barkur Director, who presided as Chief Guest. He was joined by an array of Guests of Honour:
- Joseph Fernandes, Vice-President of the Parish Council
- Sabitha Picardo, Secretary of the Parish Council
- Joseph Elias Fernandes, Coordinator of various commissions
- Herald Dsouza, Chairman of the ICYM Golden Jubilee Committee
- Sr Clara, Mother Superior of IHM Convent
- Brian Dsouza, Animator, YCS/YSM
- Johnson Dalmeida, Animator, ICYM
The Contests
Volleyball
Eight teams entered the volleyball competition. Thottam Parish emerged as winners, while Kolalgiri Parish finished as runners-up.
Throwball
Six teams took part in throwball. Mount Rosary Parish claimed the title, with Barkur Parish taking the runners-up position.
Tug of War
The tug of war also featured six teams. Barkur Parish pulled its way to victory, and Kemman Parish finished as runners-up.
Overall Championship
When the results were tallied across all events, Barkur Parish was crowned Overall Champions on home ground, a fitting result for the host parish in its Golden Jubilee year. Mount Rosary Parish secured the position of Overall Runners-up.
Valedictory
The valedictory function brought the tournament to a close, again with Fr Ronald Miranda, Parish Priest and ICYM Barkur Director, as Chief Guest. The Guests of Honour were:
- Joseph Fernandes, Vice-President of the Parish Council
- Sabitha Picardo, Secretary of the Parish Council
- Joseph Elias Fernandes Co ordinator of various commissions
- Vivet Lewis, Secretary of the Golden Jubilee Committee
- Johnson Dalmeida Animator ICYM
IGNITE '26 – Golden Jubilee Edition ended on a high note, leaving participants and spectators alike with memories of good sport and a stronger bond among the parishes.
Click here for Ignite 2026 Photo Album