Police Water Sports: CRPF in 2000 m final

Bhopal, Dec 11 (UNI) The Central Reserve Police Force has secured a berth in the final of the 2000 m rowing event of the 5-day 7th All-India Police Water Sports Championship underway at the Upper Lake here.

The Services Selection Board and host Madhya Pradesh Police came second and third respectively in yesterday's first semi-final. Two more semi-finals and the final are on schedule today, organisers said. The first day witnessed 29 heats. State Director-General of Police A R Pawar declared the championship open.

''My department has taken several steps to encourage sports including a policy for priority induction of good sportspersons,'' the top officer added.

Special Armed Force Additional DGP Vijay Raman, who chairs the organising committee, said that 18 teams -- a total 286 sportspersons -- were taking part. Twenty-six golds, as many silvers and bronzes are at stake. This is the second time Madhya Pradesh Police is hosting the championship.

UNI