Kolkata, 14 August (H.S.): Hockey legend and Olympic bronze medalist Dr. Vece Paes passed away in Kolkata on Thursday morning at the age of 80. Tributes poured in from across the sports fraternity, with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressing deep sorrow over his demise.

Dr. Paes had been battling Parkinson’s disease for a long time and was under home care for the past ten months. He was admitted to Kolkata’s Woodlands Hospital on August 12 due to multi-organ complications and infection, but despite doctors’ efforts, he breathed his last on Thursday morning.

In a message posted on social media platform X, Chief Minister Banerjee wrote, “Deeply saddened by the demise of Dr. Vece Paes, a member of India’s bronze medal-winning hockey team at the 1972 Olympics. His contribution to hockey and sports medicine is invaluable. My condolences to his family, especially Leander Paes, his friends, and all the clubs in Kolkata with which he was associated.”

Dr. Paes was a charismatic midfielder during the golden era of Indian hockey. He played a pivotal role in securing India’s only medal at the 1972 Munich Olympics and was also part of the team that finished third in the 1971 Hockey World Cup. Apart from his achievements on the field, he was a renowned sports medicine specialist and served as president of the Calcutta Cricket and Football Club.

Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey and Secretary Bhola Nath Singh also expressed grief, stating that Dr. Paes’ contribution to hockey and sports science will remain etched in history.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh