IPSF Sports Festival commences in Korea

The organisers of the third annual International Interreligious Peace Sports Festival (IPSF) are building peace by promoting character, religious cooperation and excellence in sports. The festival commenced in July and continues till August 1.

Over 1,200 athletes representing ten religions from fifty-four countries all over the world, have arrived in Korea this week to participate in the festival.

This is the third consecutive year that this mega event is taking place here in Korea. Sports persons from all walks of life will be gathering here to make a statement for peace.

IPSF will be based at the Sun Moon University campus in Asan, Korea, 100 kms outside, Seoul and will expand to four or more different sports locations. This once in a lifetime opportunity for these athletes will include competitions in their field as well as cultural and educational opportunities.

From the villages of Sri Lanka and the suburbs of Russia, the young people will be coming to compete and show their excellence. Young athletes, representing all religions will transcend cultural boundaries to form deep bonds of friendship and cooperation. These friendships contribute to creating a foundation for lasting peace within our human family.

IPSF utilises the globally popular medium of sports to promote cooperation between young athletes of all religions. The festival's environment and programs work together to dissolve religious barriers and promote cultural understanding, friendship and moral character as a long part vision for creating young ambassadors for peace.

During the Sports Festival, our opening ceremony, cultural and educational sessions as well as personal encounters, provide a unique opportunity to offer the best things we as individuals and teams have learnt and inherited: our character, our culture and especially our faith.

The Director of Education, Western Province - Dickson Fernando and Deputy Director of Education (Physical Education and Health), Western Province R. A. Kularatne and a number of other officials from the Department of Education will be accompanying the sports contingent from Sri Lanka. 160 sportsmen and women will participate at this sports festival.