Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Shillong: Ri-Bhoi District Sports Association dominated the Meghalaya State Senior Athletics Championship, finishing atop the medal tally with nine gold, seven silver, and seven bronze. The three-day event concluded at the Sports Authority of India centre on the NEHU Shillong campus. It marked the return of the competition after an 18-year break.
West Jaintia Hills took second place with seven gold, six silver, and two bronze medals. East Khasi Hills followed with five gold, five silver, and two bronze. All 12 participating districts walked away with at least two medals during the event, which hosted 267 athletes.
Eliam Bonkam G Sangma from South West Garo Hills and Ri-Bhoi’s Phibakmen Rynghang earned the Best Athlete titles for men and women. Meanwhile, East Jaintia Hills athlete Lastly Suchiang and West Jaintia Hills competitor Monlangki Kyndait received awards for Most Promising Athletes.
Australian Olympic gold medallist Glynis Leanne Nunn attended the closing ceremony. She is currently working with the Meghalaya State Olympic Association to prepare local talent for next year’s 39th National Games. Addressing the crowd, Nunn noted her own humble start in Australia. "I was so excited to see some wonderful performances. I came from a small country town, so it can be done provided you have commitment, dedication and resilience in putting in the hours you need," she said.
Meghalaya State Olympic Association Working President John F Kharshiing served as guest of honour. He emphasized that the event acts as an investment in a professional career rather than just a quest for hardware. The state government continues to funnel funds into sports programs to ensure competitive results against national rivals during the upcoming games.
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