By Zaki Salleh
IPOH: The IRC Buntong field came alive as more than 240 participants representing 48 teams competed in the 80th MIC Anniversary Penalty Shootout Cup.
The tournament was organised by the Perak MIC Youth Wing in collaboration with the MIC Ipoh Barat, Ipoh Timur and Batu Gajah divisions, as well as the Fridays Ipoh Community Sports Club.
Most of the participating teams were football clubs from around Ipoh.
The event aimed to strengthen harmony among young people while identifying and nurturing new football talent.
The presence of former national football coach, Datuk M. Karathu, also boosted the morale of the participants.
Also in attendance was the President of the Ipoh Indian Recreation Club (IRC), GM Siva, who joined in supporting the event.
Perak MIC Youth Chief, Theeageesh Ganesan, said the tournament served as a platform to foster unity and sportsmanship among youths.
He added that the close cooperation between the Perak MIC Youth Wing and the MIC divisions of Ipoh Barat, Ipoh Timur and Batu Gajah ensured the smooth organisation of the tournament.
“Ipoh Boys A, representing the host team from Buntong, emerged as champions after delivering an outstanding performance throughout the competition.
“We hope this tournament will continue in the future to produce more young talents and further strengthen community ties through sports,” he said.
