The finest Kshatriya football players from around the world held their action packed International Kshatriya Soccer Tournament, the Air Pacific Kshatriya World Cup last weekend at Blacktown Olympic Park. The tournament takes place every 2 years and provides athletes from the Kshatriya communities a unique opportunity to compete in a 4 day world event.

This year's tournament saw Blacktown Olympic Park host 200 international players representing 10 teams and playing in 17 matches. Kicking off on Friday 24^th April with the final on Sunday 26^th April, teams from Fiji and New Zealand took on their Australian counterparts trying to wrest the World Cup trophy from defending champions, Sydney.

Originating from India, the Kshatriya people are a community that descend from ancient Indian society and are passionate about their sport - particularly football. After an intensely competitive 3 days, played in a tremendous spirit, Grand Final opponents Auckland FC defeated Brisbane Maroons in what became a heart stopping Grand Final. With the game an even 1 all at full time, a penalty shootout was forced where Auckland's striking efforts proved too powerful for Brisbane, winning 3 - 2 and thus claiming the World Cup.

Event organizer, Mitesh Thakorlal, was ecstatic with the success of the event. "The tournament was wonderful. All teams were greatly impressed with the first class facilities at Blacktown Olympic Park. There were many deserving teams that just missed out in nail biting matches, but Auckland FC are to be congratulated as worthy winners."

The Air Pacific Kshatriya World Cup Soccer Tournament is supported by the Kshatriya Society of NSW. For further information on events held at Blacktown Olympic Park, please visit http://www.freewebs.com/ksnsw/

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Media Contact :
Ros Pullen - Media & Marketing Officer - Blacktown Olympic Park - 9839 6595
Karla Wyatt - Promotions Assistant - Blacktown Olympic Park - 9839 6593