SHILLONG: As Tura in West Garo Hills eagerly counts down to the official launch of the 5th Meghalaya Games tomorrow, the town has transformed into a vibrant canvas with colourful hoardings, painted sidewalks, and eye-catching murals.
With just one day left for the much-anticipated event, the atmosphere is charged with excitement as athletes from across the state converge in Tura to showcase their talents and potentials.
Preparations are in full swing for the grand launch scheduled for Monday afternoon, where President Droupadi Murmu is set to inaugurate the state games for the first time in Tura.
Traditional dance troupes have been rehearsing at the P A Sangma Sports Complex Stadium, providing a cultural backdrop to the sporting extravaganza.
A full, dress rehearsal is underway, adding a touch of tradition and fervour to the event.
The P A Sangma Stadium and the newly inaugurated Track and Field Athletics Stadium, named after the renowned Garo freedom fighter Pa Togan Nengminja Sangma, are all set to host a multitude of events.
While the main P A Sangma Stadium will witness the inaugural programme and the semi-final and final matches of the football event, the Pa Togan Nengminja Stadium will draw crowds as track and field events kick off on Monday.
The international standard synthetic tracks at the Pa Togan Nengminja Stadium promise to be a spectacle as young athletes compete in sprint and long-distance races, creating an electrifying atmosphere that is sure to captivate spectators.
In the realm of sports, football took centre stage, and the West Garo Hills district emerged as the star of the show in the run-up to the games.
In a remarkable display of skill, the team defeated formidable opponents from South West Khasi Hills with a convincing score of 5-0 in the Under 18 boys’ event at the Government Boys Higher Secondary School field.
The victory showcased West Garo Hills’ prowess, leaving South West Khasi Hills, who had dominated their opening match 6-1, disappointed.
The upcoming match between West Garo Hills and South Garo Hills will be a pivotal one, with goal difference becoming a critical factor in determining the semi-finalists.
