This spirit he invoked was evident in the performance by the Aga Khan Marching Band of the Kenyan national anthem followed by the Ismaili Anthem, and in the infectious energy of emcee Alykhan Sorathia, who conducted the Opening Ceremony in a thrilling fashion.

“Sports is a great medium to break barriers,” continued the President in his keynote address. “And the Games Inshallah will bring the young and old together.”

Zahra Didarali enthralled the audience with her singing of Reach for the Skies, composed by Shezad Rana. The song conveys the feeling of excitement and wonder that is intrinsic to the Ismaili Games.

While the Games serve as a qualifier for the Jubilee Games 2016 to be held in Dubai for participants over 18 years, younger players are also enthusiastic about showing off their sport skills.

“We were asked to qualify our athletes, but for Team Kenya this opportunity went beyond that,” said Reshma Aziz Khan, Team Kenya National Coordinator for the Jubilee Games in her speech at the ceremony.

“Ismaili Games Kenya has been put together for you… for you the Jamat to come together and celebrate sport.”

Mukhi Saheb Salim Alibhai praised all those involved in putting together the Ismaili Games Kenya 2015. “I must convey congratulations to the organising committee and all the volunteers who are involved in making this event what it is,” he said.

The flags were raised, the torch was lit and the athletes were ready. Ruhina Virjee led the recitation of the athletes’ oath.

“I pledge to play with the true spirit of sportsmanship and fair play,” declared Virjee, “to play for the glory of the sport and the honour of team Kenya.”