Football was just one of the games played at Sports Break. |
A different sort of games event took place in Norfolk over the Easter weekend. The Sports Break event at Norwich's Sportspark was originally an Asian games, but during the weekend competitors from all cultures were invited to join in the fun and try different sports including carrom and Asian-style volleyball. The first one was held in Norfolk in 1989 and was set up so people could combine a short break away with playing sports. All are welcome
In 1994 the organisers opened up the games to people from all backgrounds regardless of cast, colour and creed so competitors could learn more about different cultures. Sports Break organiser, Ashok Thakrar, says: "In the past we used to restrict it to one community but now we've broadened our horizons. "At the end of the day, sport is sport," he added. Norwich comeback
In the last two years the event has been held in Kettering and Milton Keynes, but it has come back to the county due to popular demand. "All the participants were asking for Norwich. Norwich seems to have a lot of interest behind it," says Mr Thakrar. "You mention Sports Break and it's 'ah...Norwich'," he added. Sports activities
On March 30 and 31, competitors took to the badminton courts, played five-a-side football and six-a-side cricket as well as Asian-style volleyball, while children tried out mini-tennis. Families pitted their wits against one another in a game of carrom, which originates from India. Up to four competitors sit at a polished wooden board with four netted corner pockets. The aim of the game is to flick all nine discs plus the queen into the pockets using a striker disc. The person who pots all their discs first collects the points. Relaxation and fun
Mr Thakrar, who lives in Northampton, says the event was first organised for people keen to combine a holiday with sports activities. "Because Norwich is a nice area of the country we thought we can have a holiday, have some sports, have a break with some social activities and make a long weekend out of it," he said. | 
