Manipur gears up for the 37th National Games 2023 to be held in Goa
Manipur is set to send a formidable team of 385 players to the 37th National Games 2023 in Goa, scheduled from October 25 to November 9. They will be participating in 27 out of the 49 sports disciplines featured in the Games. The total Manipur contingent size is 556, with 385 players and the remaining comprising team officials and support staff.
The sports in which Manipur will compete include Weightlifting, Wushu, Judo, Penkak Silat, Yogasana, Wrestling, Triathlon, Aquatics, Rowing (Coastal/Tidal Sports), Fencing, Athletics, Gymnastics, Boxing, Rowing, Canoe & Kayaking, Shooting, Football (Men), Handball (Women), Sepak Takraw, Cycling (Road Race), Taekwondo, Archery, Squash, Lawn Bowls, Football (Women), Golf, and Cycling (Track Race).
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This time Manipur saw an increase in the number of contingents participating in the National Games when compared to the last National Games held in Gujarat. The increase in the number of participants has raised hopes of better medal prospects for Manipur.
Sunil Elangbam, MOA Secretary General, emphasized their commitment to support the athletes despite the challenges faced by players and the general public in the state due to ongoing turmoil between the Meiteis and the Kukis.
Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant along with Sports Minister Govind Gaude flaged off the 37th National Games Goa with a Torch Relay, which will begin from Canacona.@DrPramodPSawant @GovindGaude pic.twitter.com/e8cWblPdqE
— Goa News Hub (@goanewshub) October 10, 2023
The Manipur Olympic Association is expected to spend around Rs 2.85 crore for the preparation of the games and has submitted a proposal regarding it to the State Government to cover sports clothing and travel expenses. The Association is trying its best to at least provide one track suit, one t-shirt and a pair of shoes to each athlete and officials despite the time constraint being faced by the association.
To ensure the smooth functioning of the Manipur contingent, Bobby Waikhom has been appointed as Chef-De-Mission, with N Phoni Singh and T Dushanta Singh serving as Deputy Chef-De-Mission. A Johnson and Kirankumar Thangjam will act as Coordinators, and M Rachandra Singh as Liaison Officer.
Sunil Elangbam iterated about the inclusive nature of sports, highlighting that games and sports promote peace. He also told that there has been no discrimination based on factors such as race, caste, or religion. He encouraged all members of society to come together in prayer and support. He is hopeful that despite facing internal challenges in the State, Manipur’s athletes will showcase outstanding performances in the upcoming National Games in Goa, which will feature a total of 43 sports disciplines.
