Sikkim Gears Up for 38th National Games in Uttarakhand

Gangtok: The Sikkim Olympic Association (SOA) has officially announced its preparations for the 38th National Games, scheduled to take place in Uttarakhand from January 28 to February 14.

The games will be hosted across multiple venues, including Dehradun, Haldwani, Haridwar, Bhimtal, and Pithoragarh.

Jaslal Pradhan, General Secretary of the SOA, revealed that Sikkim will compete in five disciplines: athletics, boxing, archery, cycling, and women’s football.

The contingent, comprising 41 players and five officials, was described as a source of immense pride for the state.

Pradhan emphasized the significance of this opportunity, calling it a prestigious platform for Sikkim’s athletes to showcase their talent.

The opening ceremony, featuring Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the chief guest, will kick off the games on January 28.

Among the highlights of Sikkim’s contingent are Sandhya Gurung, a Dronacharya Award-winning women’s boxing coach, and Padma Shri recipient Tarundeep Rai, a four-time Olympian who will compete in archery.

Their participation has raised expectations for medal wins, further fueling excitement across the state.

Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang unveiled the official team kits during the Maghey Mela in Jorethang, featuring the “Sunaulo Sikkim, Samriddhi Sikkim” logo, symbolizing Sikkim’s aspirations for excellence.

Pradhan also highlighted the advantages of Sikkim’s high-altitude training, which has prepared its athletes for the challenges of competing in lower-altitude venues.

He credited government initiatives, such as increased sports quotas and job opportunities for athletes, as vital motivators for the state’s sporting community.

To encourage medal-winning performances, the SOA has announced cash incentives for athletes.

Team medalists will receive Rs 1 lakh for gold, Rs 75,000 for silver, and Rs 50,000 for bronze, while individual medalists will earn Rs 50,000 for gold, Rs 40,000 for silver, and Rs 30,000 for bronze.

The women’s football team is set to depart on January 25 to prepare for their matches, with other teams traveling according to their competition schedules.

Pradhan called on the public to rally behind the athletes, describing this as a golden opportunity for Sikkim to shine on a national stage.

With hopes of surpassing its previous bronze medal performance at the 2022 National Games in Goa, Sikkim enters this year’s games with a mix of seasoned athletes and emerging talent, aiming to bring glory to the state.

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