Sporting Legends Gather in Kolkata for Emotional Dr Vece Paes Cup Celebration
On a vibrant Sunday evening, the historic Calcutta Cricket and Football Club transformed into a hallowed ground of nostalgia and sporting passion. The third edition of the Dr Vece Paes Cup saw a gathering of iconic athletes, with a special match between CC&FC and the Dr Vece Paes Invitational XI becoming a heartfelt tribute to Kolkata's deep-rooted love for sports.
Leander Paes Honors Father's Legacy on Home Turf
For tennis legend Leander Paes, the event held profound personal significance. "It means the world to my mother, my daughter, my sisters, and to me that all of you are here to celebrate in the name of sport and in honour of my Baba," Paes expressed emotionally. He shared a poignant moment, "When I was walking in, my mother said, 'Baba is with us today.' Being on this field, where he played for years, makes this club our home."
Reflecting on his formative years in Kolkata, Paes highlighted how local sporting heroes inspired his generation. "Kolkata is renowned for its sporting legacy. Growing up here and watching greats play made us believe we could win," he remarked, specifically mentioning Kapil Dev's influence after India's 1983 World Cup victory.
Kapil Dev Praises Kolkata's Evolving Sporting Culture
Cricket icon Kapil Dev emphasized the importance of building a robust sporting ecosystem for national strength. "If the nation has to be strong, you have to build sportsmen and women and a sporting culture. In the last 15–20 years, everybody has moved towards sports," he observed.
Dev reserved special appreciation for Kolkata's contributions, noting, "I used to say the best spectators were from this part of the country. Now I say this part is producing sportspeople too." Speaking about life beyond active competition, he added, "Cricket has given me a life, but you move on. If you miss it, that means you never move on in life. Just go, express yourself and enjoy yourself—that's more important."
Event Highlights and Participant Enthusiasm
The evening was headlined by legendary figures including Leander Paes and Kapil Dev, alongside cricketers Yusuf Pathan and Kirti Azad, blending nostalgia with contemporary sporting spirit. Yusuf Pathan expressed his anticipation, stating, "I always wait for this day we've been planning for months. I'm very happy to be here. His memories will always remain in our hearts."
Kapil Dev encapsulated the event's essence, declaring, "This isn't just an event, it's a living legacy, and sport is the most powerful way to carry it forward." The Dr Vece Paes Cup continues to serve as a vibrant platform celebrating Kolkata's enduring sporting heritage and the personal stories that fuel it.
