Why is BCCI mourning the loss of Olympian Dr Vece Paes?
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Synopsis
The BCCI is mourning the passing of Dr Vece Paes, a celebrated Olympian and sports medicine specialist who made significant contributions to Indian sports. His legacy of integrity and dedication to athlete welfare will be remembered by many.
Key Takeaways
- Dr Vece Paes was a pivotal figure in Indian sports medicine.
- He contributed significantly to the BCCI's anti-doping efforts.
- His legacy includes a commitment to athlete welfare and integrity.
- Paes's work fostered a culture of awareness in Indian sports.
- He is remembered fondly by the cricket community and beyond.
New Delhi, Aug 18 (NationPress) The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) expressed profound sorrow on the passing of Dr Vece Paes, an esteemed Olympian and sports medicine expert. Dr Paes, who passed away on Thursday, was part of India’s bronze medal-winning men's hockey team at the 1972 Munich Olympics and represented the nation in the 1971 Hockey World Cup.
At the age of 80, Paes established himself as a leading figure in sports medicine in India after his athletic career, working tirelessly with athletes from various sports for decades. He served the BCCI as an Anti-Doping and Age Verification Consultant from October 2010 to March 2018.
He initiated structured educational programs related to anti-doping within the BCCI, significantly improving awareness and compliance among players and support staff. His dedication and expertise played a crucial role in enhancing the Board’s anti-doping education and testing framework, alongside implementing age-verification and athlete welfare initiatives.
Paes' unwavering integrity and commitment to clean sports made a lasting impression on the support systems of Indian cricket. The BCCI stated that it stands with the sporting community in mourning Paes's loss while celebrating a life dedicated to excellence, integrity, and service to sports.
“The association of Dr. Paes with the BCCI embodied his commitment to preserving the spirit of sports. His meticulous contributions to anti-doping, including educational initiatives and age verification, have benefited many generations of cricketers. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Leander Paes, his family, and loved ones,” remarked BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia in a statement.
On Sunday, Paes was laid to rest during a funeral mass at St Thomas’ Church in Kolkata. Among the mourners were former India cricket captain Sourav Ganguly and Dilip Tirkey, the president of Hockey India, who joined family, friends, and members of the sporting fraternity in bidding farewell to Paes.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the profound impact Dr Vece Paes had on Indian sports. His commitment to athlete welfare and integrity in sports has set a benchmark for future generations. The BCCI's acknowledgment of his legacy reflects a broader commitment to excellence and ethical standards in Indian sports.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Dr Vece Paes?
Dr Vece Paes was an Olympian, member of India's bronze medal-winning hockey team in 1972, and a renowned sports medicine specialist.
What contribution did Dr Paes make to BCCI?
He played a crucial role in anti-doping and age verification initiatives from 2010 to 2018, significantly enhancing awareness among players.
What was Dr Paes's impact on Indian sports?
His expertise in sports medicine and commitment to clean sport positively influenced generations of athletes across various disciplines.
When did Dr Vece Paes pass away?
Dr Paes passed away on August 17, 2023.
Where was Dr Paes laid to rest?
He was laid to rest at St Thomas’ Church in Kolkata.
