CYG 2008 mascot "Jigrr" launched amidst pomp and pagentry

Pune, June 1 (UNI) All eyes and ears will be focused on the third Commonwealth Youth Games (CYG) when the curtain goes up at the sprawling Shiv Chhatrapati Sports City Mahalunge - Balewadi, near here, on October 12, 2008.

The mega event attracting youth from 71 countries, not witnessed in earlier two editions will certainly catapult the vibrant Pune as a sport city after having turned into the hub of infotec, automation and industry, besides being known as the Oxford of the east.

The grandiose project has changed the took of the city with the development of roads and other related infrastructure with the sole aim of making the CYG 2008 not only a resounding success but to leave an indelible impression on the minds of the participating countries as well as the local populace.

The commitment, enthusiasm and the excitement thus generated has been tremendous with only ''500 Days to Go''. The organising committee today launched 'Jigrr' the mascot for the 2008 CYG, amidst fun and frolic at a city mall in the posh Pune Cantonment area. The mascot is the younger brother of 'Shera,' the mascot of the 2010 Commonwealth Games to be held in New Delhi.

Pune's ''Jigrr'' is intelligent, sporting and alert. Competitive and incredibly brave, oozing confidence and with a twinkle in the eye reflects his 'I can do it attitude. 'Jigrr' being coined from the amalgam of Hindi word Jigar personifies courage and bravado.

The mascot will not only promote the games at Pune but will also spread his enthusiasm for sports among the youth of the country.

2008 CYG Treasurer and Amateur Boxing Federation of India former President Ashok Mattoo heralded the mascot amidst a riot of colours, pomp and pageantry this evening.

Over 1,300 athletes along with 350 technical officials from 71 countries will converge onto the city to match their talents in nine disciplines of sports to be hosted at the single venue, the Shiv Chhatrapati Sports City Mahalunge - Balewadi, venue of the 1994 National Games.

UNI