Written by Calvin Yang, on Saturday, 7 July 2007

Published in : Life, Column

I wasn't there when they built the National Stadium. But I had to be there for the Grand Old Lady's farewell.

Last Saturday, the 34-year-old National Stadium made a humble yet dignified exit, with close to 45,000 spectators joining in the celebrations.

Titled 'Field of Dreams', the closing ceremony didn't see an army of colourfully-dressed performers entertaining the crowds or a set of F-16 jets flying overhead.

It was a simple sending-off but not that the thousands present mind. For most, they were just glad to be part of the final event to be held at the National Stadium. 

Making way for its $225 million replacement - the Sports Hub, the National Stadium was a place of great significance.

Since its official opening on 21st July 1973, the venue has hosted many major events, including Michael Jackson's Concert in Singapore, Muhammad Ali's five-round exhibition bout and not forgetting countless National Day Parades.

Among those present at the ceremony were distinguished guests including President S.R. Nathan, Cabinet Ministers and also Singapore athletes, past and present. 

The celebrations went underway with a tribute match between the former soccer warriors of Kallang featuring ex-Internationals of Singapore and Malaysia. Gone were the days of the fierce rivalry between both sides. Rather, it was a 'friendly' friendly with the teams settling for a fair 1-1 draw at the end of the hour-long match.