Shillong, Feb 21: After five wonderful days, the curtains came down on a successful Meghalaya Games 2019-20 with the conclusion of the remaining four disciplines here today.
The Games were officially closed by Chief Secretary to the Government of Meghalaya Shri MS Rao IAS in the presence of Director of Sports & Youth Affairs Smti Wanrilin Booth and senior members of the Meghalaya State Olympic Association following the end of the karate events at the Laban Indoor Stadium.
The East Khasi Hills finished at the top of the medals table with 69 gold, 50 silver and 53 bronze. Swimming, tennis, billiards and snooker, karate and shooting results did not count towards the medals table as they were conducted as open tournaments. However, all podium finishers were awarded medals.
Besides karate, today also saw the conclusion of judo in Nongthymmai, billiards & snooker in Shillong Club and badminton in U Tirot Sing Syiem Indoor Stadium.
The closing function was preceded by a wonderful demonstration of karate, which was warmly appreciated by the gathered dignitaries and the enthusiastic crowd of spectators. In his speech Rao congratulated the MSOA and DSYA for hosting the Games.
“This is an excellent initiative which was actively supported by the chief patron, our Honourable Chief Minister Shri Conrad K Sangma,” Rao said. “There was plenty of enthusiasm witnessed in all disciplines and it is very important to scout talent within the state so that we can have athletes go further at the national level. We can all take joy from our athletes and I congratulate all participants and I’m sure that in due course they will do well in higher levels.”
He also made mention of the state government’s sports policy and the upcoming National Games in 2022, which Meghalaya is to host.
“The government has notified the sports policy, which will give a great boost in promoting sports. Better infrastructure will also come up in the state for the National Games and this will help athletes to do even better,” he said, adding that he hopes to see the Meghalaya Games continue in future years.
