Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Shillong: The 11th Meghalaya State Shooting Championship closed its doors in Shillong on July 5. The six-day event drew 128 competitors from six different districts to the Assam Regimental Centre. They battled through 68 distinct events. This tournament gave athletes a vital test before Meghalaya hosts the 39th National Games in 2027.
The field showed a massive age gap. Sixty-four-year-old John Kharshiing fired in the 25m Pistol Senior Masters category, while 12-year-old Kerdaiai Syiemlieh took aim in the 10m Air Rifle event. This 52-year spread proved the sport attracts all generations.
Shooting Association of Meghalaya president John F Kharshiing noted the event was a major move forward. He said the championship was an "important step in strengthening the state's shooting ecosystem ahead of the National Games."
Officials including Commissioner and Secretary of the Sports and Youth Affairs Department Vijay Kumar D attended the final day. He revealed the government plans to build an integrated shooting range as a long-term play to boost the sport. Commandant Vikas Rai Shadilya and Deputy Commandant Mahender Pde also joined the closing ceremony to hand out medals and celebrate the winners.
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