18th Sikkim State Swimming Championship kicks off

Sunday, Sep 15, 2024 08:00 [IST]

Last Update: Sunday, Sep 15, 2024 02:27 [IST]

18th Sikkim State Swimming Championship kicks off

KUNAL RAI

GANGTOK,: The 18th Sikkim State Swimming Championship commenced Saturday at the swimming pool of Tashi Namgyal Academy here. The annual event, organized by Sikkim Amateur Swimming Association (SASA), drew 200 participants this year.

The inaugural session was attended by area MLA Delay Namgyal Barfungpa as the chief guest. Also present were SASA president Kuber Bhandari and other guests.

Speaking with SIKKIM EXPRESS, Barfungpa said, “The Sikkim State Swimming Championship being held here at TNA Swimming pool by SAMA is really encouraging. Swimming is the best exercise and it is really wonderful to see young aspirants indulge in this sport. During our times, we had to practice swimming in nearby rivers due to the lack of pools. Today, there are numerous hotels with swimming pool facilities across the State.”

He commended the efforts of SASA and informed that the State government, under the leadership of Chief Minister PS Tamang, is committed to enhancing swimming facilities.  

SASA vice president Tseten Norbu Bhutia said the championship this year features 96 different competitions. He said the organizers plan to complete 54 events today, with the remaining events scheduled for September 15.

He noted a significant increase in participation with swimmers from various schools, colleges, institutions, and even Sikkimese students studying outside joining the competition.

 

Sikkim at a Glance

  • Area: 7096 Sq Kms
  • Capital: Gangtok
  • Altitude: 5,840 ft
  • Population: 6.10 Lakhs
  • Topography: Hilly terrain elevation from 600 to over 28,509 ft above sea level
  • Climate:
  • Summer: Min- 13°C - Max 21°C
  • Winter: Min- 0.48°C - Max 13°C
  • Rainfall: 325 cms per annum
  • Language Spoken: Nepali, Bhutia, Lepcha, Tibetan, English, Hindi