The Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, Government of Meghalaya, in collaboration with the Meghalaya Athletics Association, today inaugurated the State Level Inter School Athletic Meet 2024 at the Sports Authority of India (SAI), STC Shillong, NEHU, Shillong.
The opening ceremony was graced by Shri John F. Kharshiing, Meghalaya, Working President of Meghalaya State Olympics Association as the Chief Guest. Also present were Shri. K. Passah Assistant Director, Directorate of Sports & Youth Affairs, Smt. Darlene M. Khonglam, Sports officer, Finely Pariat, Secretary, Meghalaya Athletics Association, District Sports Officers and also technical officials of Athletic Federation of India (AFI) were also present to impart training to other technical officials along with Australian Olympian Ian Campbell.
Addressing the gathered athletes, Shri John F. Kharshiing urged the aspiring athletes to work hard by giving their 150 per cent by pointing out that Meghalaya will be one of the states that will host the National Games in the future. He was also glad that the annual state games are being held in the state and further called upon the athletes to establish themselves in their respective disciplines.
In her speech, Smti Darlene Khonglam informed that this year, there are a total of 809 athletes, a total of 397 boys and 412 girls and 36 team officials who are participating in the state level school athletic meet. She further added that the meet is organized annually by the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, Government of Meghalaya, to prepare the athletes to complete in the tournament, initially conducted at the district-by-district sports officer where promising athletes at the District Level are selected to compete at the State Level competition which is the main platform for athletes to compete, showcase their talents and skills in the field of athletics.
The school students, representing their respective districts, will compete in three categories: Under 14, Under 16, and Under 18 years, for both boys and girls. The events include seven track events and five field events, ensuring a comprehensive test of the athletes’ skills and abilities.
The State Level Inter School Athletic Meet 2024 promises to be an exciting event, bringing together young athletes from various districts across Meghalaya to compete in a range of athletic disciplines and showcase their talents. The meet aims to identify and nurture talent from the block level to the district and state levels, with the ultimate goal of producing national and international level athletes capable of competing on the global stage.