Assam: Games Coaching Camp for State Athletes Kicks Off

Our Sports Reporter

Guwahati: The Front Ranking Residential Coaching Camp, a final preparatory camp for athletes participating in the forthcoming National Games, was officially inaugurated at the Nabin Chandra Bordoloi Indoor Stadium here on Saturday. The camp, organized by the Directorate of Sports and Youth Welfare Department, will continue until the last batch of Assam’s contingent departs for the Games.

The opening ceremony witnessed the presence of dignitaries such as Lakhya Konwar, Secretary of the Assam Olympic Association; Subodh Malla Barua, Vice President of the association; former footballer Jewel Bay; and Pradip Timung, Director of Sports and Youth Welfare Department. Several athletes, including top international stars like Shiva Thapa, Nayanmoni Saikia, and Ankushita Boro, also attended the event.

Addressing the gathering, Lakhya Konwar expressed optimism about Assam’s performance in the National Games, which are scheduled to be held in Uttarakhand from January 28.

“Last time, we collected 56 medals in Goa. I am optimistic that this time the medal count will remain intact, if not better, as nearly 15 elite athletes of the state are part of our team,” said Konwar. He also added that Assam will try to host the next edition of National Games (2026-27).

He also urged the officials accompanying the team to maintain a supportive and friendly environment in the camp and assist players as needed. Additionally, he advised players to strictly adhere to anti-doping guidelines to avoid any issues.

In his brief address, Subodh Malla Barua encouraged the athletes to aim for better results than in previous Games, while Pradip Timung announced plans to organize an anti-doping awareness session for participants in the ongoing camp.

On the other hand, speaking on behalf of the participating athletes, star boxer Shiva Thapa, who will be competing in the Games for the third time, assured a strong performance and a determination to surpass the medal tally from the last edition.

It may be mentioned here that nearly 300 players and officials from Assam will participate in 22 events at the Uttarakhand Games and the first batch, comprising the triathlon team, is set to leave Guwahati on January 21.

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