World Cup Mascot ‘Olly’ Has Something Up His Sleeve!

Bhubaneswar: In the build-up to the promotional activities for Odisha Men’s Hockey World Cup 2018, Bhubaneswar, the Sports and Youth Services Department will host an event on Sunday on Puri sea beach to launch of the official World Cup mascot, Olly.

Olly will mark his vibrant presence by surprising the ardent hockey lovers of Odisha with a skill show unmatched by any other mascot. It will be followed by a photo session.

Olly personifies the spirit of sportsmanship and marries it with an urgent message for conservation of the state’s natural habitat. He will encourage all to imbibe the principles of fairness and competition that sport teaches the people.

Alongside promoting hockey, he will raise awareness about conservation of his Olive Ridley turtle brethren.

Commissioner-cum-Secretary Vishal Dev said they are glad that Olly was coming the day after to welcome all Odias and other hockey lovers to the World Cup in December. “Olly has a few plans to surprise us. We hope to see a large turnout tomorrow on Puri sea beach to welcome him,” he added.

Hockey World Cup, scheduled to be held from November 28 to December 16, will be one of the grandest events in the state with A R Rehman performing on the opening day of the event. As many as 16 countries will participate in this 18-day mega event.