Hockey bodies mourn loss

Lausanne, May 25: The international hockey federation (FIH) paid glowing tributes to legendary Balbir Singh Sr, who passed away on Monday, describing the three-time Olympic gold winner as an outstanding player who dedicated his life to the sport.

In a condolence letter addressed to Hockey India chief Md Mushtaque Ahmed, FIH president Narinder Batra and CEO Thierry Weil said the global hockey fraternity was with Singh's family at this hour of grief.

“Padma Shri Balbir Singh will be remembered not only as a highly talented and outstanding international player who represented India in three Olympic Games from 1948 to 1956, but also as a man greatly dedicated to our sport, sharing his experience and knowledge through his coaching with the Indian team,” the FIH letter read.

The Asian Hockey Federation also condoled Singh’s demise. “Balbir Singh left behind a legacy which will always be cherished and serve as a beacon for many budding talents,” AHF chief executive Tayyab Ikram said in a statement. Hockey India too condoled Singh’s demise, saying the sport has lost its “guiding light” and his life will remain an example for generations to come. —