PART 3 THE BLUE RIBBON contd....... "No, Zaheer. As I said, it's not possible. Other students will either pity me or mock my efforts and I can't face that." As Zaheer tried to convince him, Ali Noor gathered his crutches and turning his back on Zaheer, walked away. Later in the evening Ali sat in front of the TV, flipping channels morosely. The door-bell chimed and a few seconds later, his mother led in Zaheer. "Come on, champ. At least give it a try." Zaheer bent down and forced Ali Noor to stand up Ignoring Ali's protests, Zaheer firmly led him outside. It was dinner time and the street was deserted. Ali Noor tried to extricate himself from Zaheer's clutches once again. "Go on, son. At least give it a try." It was his mother's gentle voice that made Ali straighten up his shoulders. "Oh all right then. Whatever you say," he capitulated Zaheer tied Ali Noor's left leg to his right leg. With their arms around each others shoulders, they tried to run a three legged race. It was extremely slow going. Ali's movements were slow and awkward and he kept tripping over. "It's no use, Zaheer. Maybe you should find a new partner," Ali panted. But Zaheer would not let him quit. Next evening and every evening after that, the two of them practiced under the light of the street-lamps. Gradually, their movements became more coordinated and their friendship grew. While Ali learned to appreciate Zaheer's "never-say-die" attitude, Zaheer too learned to value all those simple things which he had always taken for granted. the ability to run, jump and kick a ball. Finally, the Sports Day arrived. Ali Noor was extremely nervous. He looked at the spectators' pavilion which was filled to its capacity. His own parents were also there. As the commentator announced the start of the three-legged race, the students took their positions at the starting line. Ali Noor's anxiety gave way to pure dread and panic. He looked at the blue ribbon stretched across the finishing line and it seemed miles and miles away. He imagined himself sprawled on the sports field and all the people laughing and jeering at him. "I can't do it, Zaheer. I am sorry." He turned away but Zaheer grasped his arm firmly. "Listen, Ali. Sports isn't about running fast or jumping high. It is about team spirit and giving your best when the chips are down. Right now your team needs you and if you quit, I'll have to forfeit too." Ali looked up to where his parents were sitting. More than anything else, today he wanted to make his parents proud. He unclenched his hands to be contd....