Sunday, Mar 30, 2025 10:30 [IST]
Last Update: Saturday, Mar 29, 2025 17:30 [IST]
GANGTOK, : The 16th State Athletics Meet
commenced today at Khel Gaon, Reshithang with over 300 athletes from across
Sikkim competing in various track and field events. A range of high-end sports
technologies including advanced TSR (Timing, Scoring and Results) system is
being used this time to enhance accuracy and transparency in performance
tracking.
Sikkim Athletics Association president
and senior SP (Gangtok) Tenzing Loden Lepcha described the meet as a
celebration of youth, talent and the thriving athletic spirit of Sikkim.
“This meet is more than just a
sporting event, it is a platform for young athletes to dream, strive and shine.
Whether you win a medal or not, you have already won by being here and choosing
to push your limits,” said Lepcha.
He expressed gratitude to Chief
Minister P.S. Golay for his constant support and commitment to sports and youth
development, which, he said, has significantly contributed to the growth of
athletics in the State. Lepcha also extended special thanks to Sun Pharma for
their support in promoting athletics in Sikkim, as well as to the officials
from Athletics Federation of India (AFI) for their presence and encouragement.
SAA general secretary Rajiv
Roka shared that district-level selection trials were conducted in December and
January to pick the best athletes for the State meet. He added that almost all
participating athletes are registered under the AFI with unique identification
numbers.
On the use of the advanced TSR
system this year, Roka explained that the technology ensures accurate recording
of athletes’ performances, making the selection process for zonal and national
events transparent. The system automatically captures data, enabling AFI to
identify top performers for future competitions.
Roka, who was recently appointed
associate vice president of the AFI, was felicitated on the occasion.
The meet was declared open by
Namthang-Rateypani MLA Sanjeet Kharel. Area MLA Kala Rai, State Sports
secretary Yangchen Doma Tamang, Sikkim Cricket Association president Tika Subba
and Sikkim Olympic Association vice president C. Zangpo Bhutia were
also present.
Addressing the inaugural
session, chief guest Kharel highlighted the State government’s solid support
for sports under the leadership of Chief Minister Golay. The recent State Budget
reflects increased investment in the sporting sector, he added.
Encouraging the participants, Kharel urged them to pursue sports as a viable career option, emphasizing that numerous opportunities now exist beyond government jobs. He motivated the athletes to showcase their skills with dedication and hard work, aiming to make their mark not just at the State level but also on the national and global stage.
The meet features over 100
track and field events across under-14, under-16, under-18 and open categories.
