Monday, 27 August 2007

5th WRCF a Grand Success

The 5th WRCF held in Colombo was a grand and tremendous success.

The International Fellowship of Cricket-Loving Rotarians (IFCR) have achieved what all other Rotary Fellowships dream of - fantastic participation (300 participants), excellent accommodation/Hotel facilities (Hilton Colombo), great sporting venues (S.S.C., C.C.C. & N.C.C./ Wesley), with a fusion of entertainment and fellowship.

IFCR - Sri Lanka is grateful to all those who participated and supported this grand Rotary Fellowship event, the 5th World Rotary Cricket Festival.

We are delighted that you all have truly enjoyed the 7 day Rotary Cricket Festival in Colombo, Sri Lanka. We hope more of you will visit us again in the not too distant future. May you be well and happy.

Thursday, 9 August 2007

The Best of Cricket Venues for the 5th WRCF

On all 4 match days - 13th, 14th, 16th & 17th August, matches will be played at the S.S.C. (best Test venue in Sri Lanka) and at the C.C.C. (former Test venue). In addition, on 2 days (13th & 17th August) matches will be played at N.C.C. (a nice ground with a 100 year old pavilion) and on the other 2 days (14th & 16th August) at Campbell Park/ Wesley Grounds (a train carriage is used as the restaurant).

All matches will be played on turf wickets.

Sunday, 5 August 2007

Spectacular 5th WRCF to commence in 7 days

IFCR – Sri Lanka is truly honored to host the 5th World Rotary Cricket Festival from 12th - 18th August, in Colombo. We are delighted that 12 Teams, with over 300 participants from Australia, England, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, South Africa & Sri Lanka are participating.

We have left no stone unturned to ensure that the Best possible 5th WRCF is conducted in Colombo. The warm Welcome, accommodation at the “Official Hotel”, the Hilton Hotel, at a most attractive price, dream cricket venues including current and former “Test” venues, leading ex/current cricketers (SL) as featured Guest Speakers, spectacular Fellowship evenings etc. etc. are for you to enjoy.

IFCR will try its best to donate US$10,000 of sports equipment to 40 needy/ poor schools. We thank those who will donate their cricket equipment and those who may bring a special gift to be auctioned along with the select cricket memorabilia. Lets make this 5th WRCF a most memorable experience.

Friday, 3 August 2007

Country Flags & Special Item/s for Charity Auction

Each Team is kindly requested to bring 3 National Flags (Australia & India: 1+ Flags from each Team). Your efforts to bring a special item/s for the charity auction (to provide sports equipment to needy schools), is greatly appreciated.

Wednesday, 1 August 2007

Matches to be played on Superb Turf Wickets

As of today, 301 participants from 7 countries are confirmed. All matches will be played on turf wickets. A batting paradise or will the bowlers do the trick!!!

Thursday, 26 July 2007

Welcome - 5th WRCF Revised/ Updated information

Following the Cricket Festivals held in England, India, New Zealand and Australia, the International Fellowship of Cricket-Loving Rotarian's (IFCR) of RI Dist. 3220 - Sri Lanka as the Host Nation extend a very warm welcome to each of you attending the gala 5th World Rotary Cricket Festival.

All 300 participants will stay at the “Official Hotel” – Hilton Hotel, Colombo.

Currently 14 teams have confirmed their participation: Australia (3 teams), England, India (6 teams - from Gujarat, Hyderabad, Bangalore & Chennai), New Zealand, Pakistan & Sri Lanka (2). 2 South African participants too have confirmed. Each team will play a 25 over match on each of the 4 match days - 13th, 14th, 16th & 17th of August. Come! Enjoy the exciting cricket that will be played on lush greens amidst great fun & fellowship :-)


5th WRCF Programme: 12-18 August, 2007

12th: Arrival. Welcome to Sri Lanka - “A land like no other”.

17.30hrs - Orientation/ Briefing 5th WRCF
18.30 hrs - Grand Opening Ceremony with Dinner & fantastic Entertainment at the Galle Face Hotel. Cricketers are requested to preferably wear blazers/Jackets. Each Team representative will speak for 3 mts. Featured speakers will include former SL Cricket Captain Michael Tissera


13th: 08.00hrs to 12.45hrs & 13.15hrs to 18.00hrs - Cricket Matches
(2 matches will be played on each ground - 2 x 25 overs per match)
Excellent morning & afternoon city tours (90mts each)
19.00hrs - Dinner on own (Many fine restaurants to choose from)


14th: 08.00hrs to 12.45hrs & 13.15hrs to 18.00hrs - Cricket Matches
Fantastic morning & afternoon shopping (101mts at Odel/ House of Fashion)

19.00hrs – Gala Dinner & Entertainment at the Mount Lavinia Hotel (Hosted by the SL Tourist Board). The special Gift items given by each Team & select Cricket memorabilia from National Cricketers will be auctioned. Proceeds will go towards purchasing sports equipment for poor schools.


15th: Day at leisure. Day tours to Kandy or Galle can be arranged at own cost. Please contact/visit http://www.utopiavacations.net/

12.15hrs & 18.30hrs – Regular Rotary Club meetings (Hosted/ F.O.C.)
16.00hrs - General Meeting of I.F.C.R.
19.00hrs – RC Colombo East - Speaker SL Cricket Capt. Mahela J. (US$10)


16th: 08.00hrs to 12.45hrs & 13.15hrs to 18.00hrs - Cricket Matches
Excellent morning & afternoon city tours (90mts each)
18.30hrs - Dinner on own (many fine restaurants to choose from)


17th: 08.00hrs to 12.45hrs & 13.15hrs to 18.00hrs - Cricket Matches
Fantastic morning & afternoon shopping (101mts at Odel/ House of Fashion)

19.00hrs - Gala Closing ceremony, Dinner & Entertainment at The Bay Leaf. Featured speakers will include former SL Test opener Sidath W.


18th: Departure. “Ayubowan” – May you have a long and healthy life. Beautiful Tours/ Value Excursions at own cost. Please contact/visit http://www.utopiavacations.net/



Easy / Simplified Registration for 5th WRCF

Each Team Manager or Captain should collect US$200.00 as an advance from each person (cricketers & supporters) planning to attend the 5th WRC Festival in Colombo & transfer such funds (US$3,600 if 18 persons) to the below mentioned Rotary Account. Names of those attending should be emailed to rotary.nalin@gmail.com


5th WRCF - Cost Per Cricketer & Non Cricketer

Accommodation (6 nights) on B/B at Hilton Hotel, Colombo - US$350.00
For each additional night add US$70.00 per room (Special IFCR price)
Transport, match days lunches at the grounds & 3 dinners are included
Also a Rotary Lunch & Evening meeting on Wednesday, 15th is hosted.

Plus Additional Cost Per Cricketer: US$66.00
Booking of Cricket Grounds, Photos, Trophies, Balls etc.

Total Cost Per Cricketer - US$416.00 & Non Cricketer - US$350.00


Bank Account Details - Use T.T. / SWIFT

Each TEAM Manager/Captain is kindly requested to transfer the advance of US$200 per person (players + spouses + supporters). Eg: If 20 persons, then US$4,000 to be transferred. The balance payable amount of US$216 per player and US$150 per spouse/ supporter is to be paid on arrival in Colombo.

The Bank account details:

Account Number : 001 003771 003
Account Name : Rotary Club of Colombo Regency
Bank Name : HSBC
Branch : Main Office
Bank Address : 24, Sir Baron Jayatilleke Mw, Colombo 1, SRI LANKA
Bank Swift Code : HSBCLKLX

Each TEAM/group to transfer funds from Bank to Bank by T.T./ SWIFT. Please inform us of the amount transferred so as to confirm receipt.

Monday, 23 July 2007

Hilton Hotel, Colombo - New "Official Hotel"

Hilton Hotel, Colombo, will roll out the Red Carpet for all those attending the 5th WRCF. Changing the "Official Hotel" was necessary to accommodate all the 275+ visiting Rotarian's/Spouses in one location. Providing you with this Upgrade has been managed at no additional cost to you :-). www.hilton.com

Friday, 20 July 2007

Sri Lanka Tourist Board joins hands with Rotary SL

The Sri Lanka Tourist Board has joined hands with Rotary SL & is extending valuable support to ensure a most enjoyable and memorable experience to all those attending the 5th WRCF. The S.L.T.B. will also host the Gala Dinner & Spectacular Entertainment on 14 August, 2007. www.srilankatourism.org

Thursday, 19 July 2007

All Rotary Cricket Lovers - "Visa on Arrival" in Sri Lanka

All of you attending the 5th WRCF from Australia, U.K., India, New Zealand, Pakistan & South Africa will be issued Visas on arrival in Sri Lanka. Please request for a "Tourist Visa". Also ensure that your Passport is valid for 6 months (expires only after 1 March, 2008). www.immigration.gov.lk

Wednesday, 18 July 2007

Charity Auction - Sports equipment for poor Schools

We kindly request Each Team to bring a gift item to be auctioned. Sports equipment will be purchased with the funds raised to benefit poor school children...help bring a smile to their faces. We are grateful to the British Team for the generous donation of US$2,000 to purchase cricket equipment that will benefit senior school children after the tournament. Other Teams too are welcome to donate their cricket equipment after the tournament.

Monday, 16 July 2007

Rotary Pakistan too confirms 1 Team. Total - 14 Teams

We are delighted that Rotary Pakistan too has confirmed their participation. Hope Bangladesh too will join us & add greater colour to the 5th WRCF.

Saturday, 14 July 2007

Minimum 12 Teams & 250+ Participants at 5th WRCF

Minimum 12 Teams with over 250 participants will join in the gala Cricket Festivities from 12-18 August. 4 Teams (all 3 Australian Teams & 1 from Chennai, India) have transferred the necessary team advances. Bank transfer details are given below. A delegation of 60 Australians & over 100 Indians will arrive in sunny Sri Lanka. For any sight-seeing/ tour programmes beyond the 5th WRCF proper, please contact/visit http://www.utopiavacations.net/

Wednesday, 4 July 2007

Bank Account Details - Use T.T. / SWIFT

We kindly request each TEAM Manager/ Captain to transfer the advance of US$200 per member of their group/ contingent. Eg: If number of Players, spouses & supporters in your Group/ contingent is 23, then we would appreciate it if you would transfer (23 x US$200 each) US$4,600 at one go.

The Bank account details:

Account Number : 001 003771 003
Account Name : Rotary Club of Colombo Regency
Bank Name : HSBC
Branch : Main Office Branch
Bank Address : 24, Sir Baron Jayatilleke Mawatha, Colombo 1, SRI LANKA
Bank Swift Code : HSBCLKLX

Each TEAM/group to transfer funds from Bank to Bank by T.T./ SWIFT. Please inform us of the amount transferred so as to confirm receipt.

Transfer of Funds

The Rotary Bank account details for the necessary transfer of funds will be given in the next 18 hours. Please make arrangements to transfer the full amount as declared by each Team (players + spouses/ supporters) at US$200 per person. Eg: If 20 persons (20 x US$200) = US$4,000.

The balance payable amount of US$216 per player and US$150 per spouse/ supporter will be collected in Colombo.

Thursday, 14 June 2007

New Zealand (1) & India (4) too confirm Teams

Rtn. David of New Zealand has confirmed 1 Team with a contingent of 20. Rtn. Kittu of IFCR India has confirmed 4 Teams (RI Dist.3060 -Gujarat with 25, Dist.3150 - Hyderabad with 20, Dist.3190 - Bangalore with 21 and Dist.3230 - Chennai with 20) with a total contingent of 86.

Tuesday, 12 June 2007

U.K. Confirms Team / Large contingent

The British will arrive in full force - contingent of 23 including an infant :-) and will stay at the Cinnamon Grand Hotel.

Monday, 11 June 2007

Australia confirms 1 additional Team (Total 3 Teams)

Rtn. Graeme Amoore, Sec. IFCR Australia, confirmed that Australia will field 3 Teams. All of them will stay at the Official Hotel - Cinnamon Grand. Rtn. David H. of Western Redbacks (RI Dist.9470, Aust.) has sent in 20 names.

Wednesday, 30 May 2007

Easy / Simplified Registration for 5th WRCF

Each Team Manager or Captain should collect US$200.00 from each person (cricketers & supporters) planning to attend the 5th WRC Festival in Colombo and prepare to transfer such funds (US$3,600 if 18 persons) to the Rotary Account in Colombo by 28th June, 2007. The names of those attending should be emailed (with * indicated for players) along with the preferred Team Hotel indicated before 28th June, 2007. Balance monies on arrival at the Official Hotel www.cinnamonhotels.com in Colombo.

Sunday, 27 May 2007

5th WRCF- Full House expected with 16 Teams

Beautiful & sunny Sri Lanka gears up to warmly welcome 16 Rotary Cricket Teams (from 7+ countries) attending the 5th WRC Festival. Lively cricket on lush greens amidst great fun & fellowship.

Anticipated Teams: Australia - 2, England - 1, India - 6, New Zealand- 1, Pakistan - 1, South Africa - 1, Sri Lanka - 2 and Possibly 2 teams from Nepal, Malaysia, Bangladesh or West Indies.

Saturday, 26 May 2007

5th WRCF - Cost Per Cricketer & Non Cricketer

Accommodation - US$200.00 (6 nights at Cinnamon Grand Hotel)
Transportation - US$ 80.00 (Airport & Match Transfers 12th-18th)
Food & Entertain.t - US$ 70.00 (5 Lunches & 4 Gala Dinners)

Plus Additional Cost Per Cricketer:
Photos, Trophies, Balls etc.- US$ 16.00 (Group & Team Photos)
Cricket Grounds - US$ 50.00 (4 Turf Wkts. 2 Former Test Venues)

Total Cost Per Cricketer - US$416.00 & Non Cricketer - US$350.00

Friday, 25 May 2007

5th WRCF - Official Hotel is Cinnamon Grand

Come! Enjoy the luxury of Cinnamon Grand Hotel (5* Branded Hotel).

Total Cost of Hotel Accommodation for 6 nights (12-18 August)
on Twin Share basis with Bed & Breakfast is US$200.00 Per Person.
Each additional night US$70.00 per couple (special IFCR rate).

Please visit the Hotel website http://www.cinnamonhotels.com/ and see for yourself the luxury that awaits you, the Cricket Loving Rotarian's and their spouses.

We have also negotiated with Hotel Taj Samudra www.tajhotels.com/Business/Taj%20Samudra,COLOMBO/ US$180.00 Per Person on Twin share basis with B&B for 6 nights and similarly with Hilton Colombo Hotel www.hilton.com US$270.00 Per Person.
Single supplement: For a person taking a single room (not sharing) add an additional US$160.00 to the above Hotel rates.

Please confirm your TEAM accommodation requirements to rotary.nalin@gmail.com (Full Team must preferably stay together).

An IFCR Travel Desk, First Aid room etc. will be available at the Official Hotel http://www.cinnamonhotels.com/

Wednesday, 23 May 2007

5th WRCF Programme: 12-18 August, 2007

12th - 08.00hrs to 18.00hrs Arrival of IFCR members & spouses
- 18.00hrs 5th WRCF Opening Ceremony, Gala Dinner & Entertainment

13th - 08.00hrs to 12.45hrs & 13.15hrs to 18.00hrs Cricket Matches
(2 matches will be played on each ground - 2 x 25 overs per match)
Spouses - Excellent city tour (half day)
18.30hrs Dinner on own (Many gastronomical restaurants to choose from)

14th - 08.00hrs to 12.45hrs & 13.15hrs to 18.00hrs Cricket Matches
Spouses - Fantastic shopping (half day)
19.00hrs Fellowship Dinner & Entertainment (Hosted)

15th - Day at leisure (Day tours to the hills, beaches, historical sights at own cost)
12.30 noon or 19.30 evening, Rotary Club meetings will be hosted.

16th - 08.00hrs to 12.45hrs & 13.15hrs to 18.00hrs Cricket Matches
Spouses - Excellent city tour (half day)
18.30 hrs Dinner on own (many gastronomical restaurants to choose from)

17th - 08.00hrs to 12.45hrs & 13.15hrs to 18.00hrs Cricket Matches
Spouses - Fantastic shopping (half day)
19.00hrs 5th WRCF Gala Closing ceremony, Dinner & Entertainment

18th - Departure: Beautiful Tours/ Value Excursions at own cost.

Monday, 21 May 2007

5th World Rotary Cricket Festival

The International Fellowship of Cricket Loving Rotarian's of Rotary International District 3220, Sri Lanka, will host the 5th World Rotary Cricket Festival from 12-18 August, 2007. The Family of Rotary in Sri Lanka extend a very warm welcome to the International Fellowship of Cricket Loving Rotarians (IFCR) attending this gala Rotary cricket festival. Be a part of the exiting cricket that will be played on lush greens surrounded by palm trees and overlooked by a smiling sun... fun and fellowship.