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Guyanese cricketer Chanderpaul inaugurates Thornton's first day-night cricket pitch
The inauguration ceremony was attended by political and community leaders including Thornton Mayor Jan Kulmann and award-winning coach Jatin Patel.
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Staff Reporter - Mon, 13, Oct 2025
- 23:51 EDT
- 22
(from left) Jatin Patel, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, and Mayor Jan Kulmanna during the ribbon cutting ceremony / Handout: Colorado cricket
Thornton Sports Complex, Colorado, marked a significant milestone with the opening of a new cricket pitch on Oct. 4.
Inaugurated by West Indies cricketing legend Shivnarine Chanderpaul, it is a testament to the development of cricket within the region. This pitch would be the first in Thornton, Colorado to feature floodlights, enabling day and night matches.
The ground is dedicated to fostering youth and school cricket, particularly benefiting the Adams 12 Five Star Schools, including Thornton High School and its middle schools.
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The inauguration ceremony was attended by political and community leaders including Thornton Mayor Jan Kulmann, award-winning coach Jatin Patel and officials from the City of Thornton and local schools.
Mayor Kulmann highlighted the importance of cricket as a unifying sport that connects families, neighbors, and diverse cultures. She also celebrated the role of cricket in fostering community spirit and youth development.
The presence of Chanderpaul served as an inspiration to aspiring young cricketers, and the event provided an opportunity for local student-athletes from Thornton Middle School and Thornton High School to showcase their talents.
Anchored by community member Aaralyn Ann Vadakkan, the event also recognized the efforts of the Colorado Tennis Cricket League (CTCL), which spearheaded the project to expand cricket in local schools.
Manoj Gangwar, Anil Vijay from CTCL , Fareed Stanikzai and Charlene Fauls from the School District and Vinod Murthy from DYCA were also acknowledged for their dedication.
Reflecting on the growth of cricket in Colorado, Jatin Patel recalled his initial visit in September 2017. He noted the growth of cricket over the years and the contribution of individuals like Manoj Gangwar, who has played a vital role in establishing cricket grounds and nurturing young talent in the region.
Geo George Vadakkan, the President of CTCL remarked, "I am thrilled to see our league grow from strength to strength, attracting players from diverse backgrounds and age groups. This growth has not only helped our community come together but also provided a platform for people to connect, learn, and thrive."
Talking about the guest of honor, he said, "We are also deeply grateful to the legendary Shivnarine Chanderpaul for taking the time to join us and share his invaluable experience with our players. His presence was a tremendous motivation for our cricketers, and your humility and kindness were truly inspiring."
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