Shillong gears up to host SAF Games

A Correspondent

SHILLONG, Feb 3: Shillong is ‘Games ready’, the CEO (Shillong) of the 12th South Asian Games 2016, RK Sharma, said today, with ‘all venues in fine shape’.

Around 200 athletes and officials will have arrived by the end of today, with similar numbers expected tomorrow and Friday, which will also be the official start of the South Asian Games.

“Some athletes have already come and have begun practising, like the Indian archery and women’s football teams,” Sharma said.

The CEO also touched on other aspects of the Games, such as security, accommodation and medical.

Although there is tight security in and around all the venues in Shillong, Sharma said that “security always remains an area of concern,” as the authorities have to stay alert throughout.

“Players’ and officials’ accommodation has already been booked and elaborate transport arrangements have been made. Medical facilities are also geared up as and when needed,” Sharma added.

The CEO also remarked about the importance of the more than 700 volunteers to the success of the Games.

“In any sports event volunteers play a vital role. They are the bridge between society, the organisers and players. Whatever memories the players will have (of the Games) will come through interaction with the volunteers,” Sharma stated.