Great initiative, but work to be done

Marie Helena Costa Mendes of the International School Dhaka was among many who competed during the Interschool Gymnastics at National Sports Council Gymnasium in Paltan yesterday.

Organised by the Bangladesh Gymnastics Federation, the second edition of the two-day competition began on Thursday, featuring 209 participants from 64 institutions across several districts.

While the initiative is a commendable step in promoting youth participation in gymnastics, the subpar venue conditions highlighted areas that still need attention.

With poor ventilation and inadequate lighting, the hot and humid environment posed an additional challenge for the young athletes -- issues the federation may need to address if it hopes to attract more participants in the future.