While stern views, remedies and suggestions to boost Indian sport were put forth by a host of prominent personalities connected with Indian sport, the function focussed on honouring a plethora of sportspeople -- players, administrators and journalists whose blood, sweat and tears have done much to uplift sports in India.

The function that filled the void caused by the Government's inaction on the matter, featured Chief Guest, Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President Suresh Kalmadi. The IOA chief called for a new beginning while reflecting on the travails of sport in India.He urged the media to encourage other sports besides cricket but in the same breath pleaded of the BCCI to send the best side to the Commonwealth Games.

Also speaking on the occasion was Test record-breaking batsman, SunilGavaskar -- as a representative of India's sportspersons. Absolutely bowled over by being flanked by billiards legend, 76-year-old Wilson Jones and 91-year-old Haribhau Sane, a legendary sports promoter, he urged the country to take fresh guard to complete a fine century.Noted TV commentator Harsha Bhogle brought up pertinent points about the media and it's role in promoting sport while renowned Marathi columnist Dwarkarnath Sanzgiri championed the cause of vernacular sports journalism and its development.