By Our Reporter
Shillong, Jan 20: The 5th edition of the Meghalaya Games reached its culmination today at the iconic P.A. Sangma Stadium in Tura, as the Closing Ceremony unfolded with a spectacular display of sportsmanship and cultural richness.
The culmination today marked the end of a week-long extravaganza that brought together athletes from all corners of the state, engaging in 23 sports, and boasting a commendable participation of over 3000 spirited contenders.
Champion of Champions, East Khasi Hills ended with a medal tally of 132 gold, 105 silver and 122 bronze (a total of 359 medals). Ri-Bhoi ends up as first runner up with 79 medals West Jaintia Hills becomes the second runner up with 68 medals.
The 5th Meghalaya Games has created milestones of many firsts. With participation of 3000 athletes, the highest till date in the history of the state games. For the first time The President of India inaugurated a state games event. 20 sporting events and 3 demonstration sports is also the highest number of disciplines seen at the Meghalaya Games. Most of the athletes who participated more than half of them experienced Garo Hills/Tura for the first time. 1500 volunteers comprising of local boys and girls supported during the games. Also, for the first time the event witnessed Robert Kabbas, a former Olympics medal winner in Weightlifting participating in the games as an official.
In the spotlight of the 5th Meghalaya Games, the most popular sport in the world -Football took centre stage, drawing immense anticipation and cheering fans at venues. The women’s U-18 final saw a high-quality clash between Ri-Bhoi and East Khasi Hills, culminating in a penalty shootout, with Ri-Bhoi prevailing 3 – 2. In the Boys U-18 final, Ri-Bhoi secured victory against West Jaintia Hills with a solitary goal by RiskhemSyiem in a closely contested match. Football enthusiasts witnessed thrilling moments and decisive victories, making it a standout feature of the Meghalaya Games.
The ceremony kicked off with a mesmerizing demonstration of Lawn Bowling, setting the tone for an evening filled with excitement and celebration. The Meghalaya Games mascot,Labasa, the Clouded Leopard, roared into the scene, adding a touch of joy as it interacted with the gathered guests, creating an atmosphere of enthusiasm and camaraderie. The cultural diversity of Meghalaya took centre stage with a captivating welcome song performed by the Garo Troupe from Do.Kakku Art & Cultural Association.
Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Conrad K Sangma shared his views on the success of the Meghalaya Games.
Chief Minister Conrad Sangma said, “As we bid farewell to the spectacular event, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all who made it a grand success. Hosting the Games in Tura has been a joyous experience, and I am truly grateful to the gracious people of Tura for being exceptional hosts. I thank institutions like Don Bosco, Monfort, Durama College, BSF, 2nd Battalion of Meghalaya Police, and many more who offered their facilities for competition and accommodation.
This year, the games saw the convergence of 23 disciplines, 400+ medal events playing a crucial role in uncovering new talent and future sports stars from Meghalaya, contributing to the building of a stronger sporting ecosystem in the districts and the entire state.Games are not monetary expenditure for us, it’s an investment in our future in sports. Our aim is to represent India at the Olympics.
Sports Minister Shri ShakliarWarjri commended the athletes for their dedication and sportsmanship. Hon’ble Minister, stating, “Witnessing the passion and commitment of our athletes in the 5th Meghalaya Gameshas been truly inspiring. Their achievements reflect their individual prowess as well as the collective strength of Meghalaya’s sporting spirit.”
In the vibrant tapestry of the 5th Meghalaya Games, there were unforgettable unique stories which will be etched in the history of the State Games.
Gilbert Sohtun, prove that age is just a number, as a 66-year-old table tennis maestro from East Khasi Hills, showcased enduring passion. Damandashisha Pasi, a recipient of Government support andthe sole archer from West Jaintia Hills at the SAI National Centre of Excellence, a winner in previous edition of the Meghalaya Games,just back from the World Cup Trials this January.
InsyrpaihunKharlyngdoh, a dedicated volleyball player from South-West Khasi Hills, led her team to historic victory in the game’s debut. In the West Garo Hills, Ringchi K Sangma, a 19-year-old from Upper Wadanang, joined the Wrestling Association of WGHD just onemonth ago, received basic training for 6 days, and clinched a silver medal in the FreestyleWrestling competition at the 5th Meghalaya Games 2024, marking a historic achievement asbecoming one of the first wrestling athletes from Garo Hills to achieve this milestone in the newlyincluded discipline.
Impressed by Mebanrilang Lyngdoh Marshillong’s viral calisthenics video, the MeghalayaGymnastics Association invited him to Shillong for a coaching camp with an Assam-based coach.
Meban excelled, earning the All-Round Champion Medal with 3 gold medals in the Open Category, VaultingTable, and Floor Exercise. These athletes and many more, became the embodiment of dedication, triumph, and the rich sporting legacy woven into the fabric of the Meghalaya Games.
John F. Kharshiing, the Working President of Meghalaya State Olympic Association (MSOA), delivered a speech reflecting on the success of the event, followed by a proud parade of athletes representing Meghalaya’s unity in diversity.
Finely L Pariat, Organizing Secretary of MSOA, expressed gratitude in the vote of thanks, acknowledging the efforts of all stakeholders, participants, and organizers.
The event saw the parade of the athletes, followed by a special performance celebrating theMeghalaya Day, celebrating the 52nd Statehood Anniversary, followed by performance by artistic yoga and Wushu athletes.
The event also witnessed performances by Haystack Ladies, Riprap, DJ and colourful fireworks marking the games closed.
