Gangtok, June 23rd (IPR): The International Olympic Day with the theme “Let’s Move and Celebrate" was celebrated at Reshithang and at Paljor Stadium, Gangtok.
The celebrations kicked off with inspiring opening flag-off ceremony of a cycling expedition from Khel Goan to the Radio Station, Gangtok by the Chief Guest, Mr Raju Basnet, Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs. The event also featured a variety of competitive sporting activities including Archery, 60 mts hurdles, one Mile run and boxing. The highlight of the celebration was the introduction of a Walkathon for the first time in Sikkim, underscoring the importance of physical fitness and the collective spirit of the Sikkimese community.
The event at Reshithang concluded with a prize distribution ceremony, recognizing the achievements of the enthusiastic participants.
In the 60 Metres Hurdles, Mr Aditya Thatal secured the first position, followed by Mr Sameer Khadka in second and Ms Reeva Baraily in third. In the 1 Mile Run, Mr Sameer Khadka took the first position, with Mr Ujal Rai and Mr Aditya Thatal securing second and third places, respectively.
After the event at Reshithang, Mr Raju Basnet visited the Blood Donation Camp at the conference hall of Paljor Stadium. The camp, an integral part of the day's activities, highlighted the spirit of community service. The chief guest praised the organisers and donors for their contribution to this noble cause. He also interacted with the medical team, STNM.
The Minister witnessed a series of indoor sports exhibitions including basketball, badminton, Table Tennis, football, boxing, karate, swimming, wushu and taekwondo.
Thereafter, a press conference was held in the Sikkim Olympic Association (SOA) office where Mr Raju Basnet expressed his gratitude for his invitation to the day's celebrations. He announced the government initiative is to improve sporting facilities statewide, including plans to provide each constituency with five playing fields. He also stated that the Olympic movement should aim at enhancing overall health in society, not just sporting excellence.
SOA President Mr Kuber Bhandari conveyed his greetings for the International Olympic Day, commending young athletes for their involvement and stressing the importance of the Olympic values of perseverance, fair play and friendship that the Olympic Games inspire. Additionally, Mr Bhandari informed that representatives from the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs would visit schools across the State to educate students on the importance of Olympic Day and sports in general.
After the press conference, the felicitation programme was held. The function began with the minister being honoured by various sports associations of Sikkim, followed by a cake-cutting ceremony. Thereafter, Mr Raju Basnet along with the dignitaries felicitated medal winners of the 37th National Games held in Goa and the 3rd North East Olympic Games held in Nagaland. Athletes were presented with cash tokens of appreciation for their achievements.
Medal Winner of 37th National Games, Goa:
-Bronze medal in 3000m Steeplechase
Medal Winners of 3rd North East Olympic Games, Nagaland:
-Athletics: 4 Gold, 3 Silver, 3 Bronze
-Basketball: Gold medal
-Boxing: 2 Silver, 5 Bronze
-Pencak Silat: 3 Bronze
-Taekwondo: 1 Silver, 3 Bronze
-Wushu: 5 Bronze
Addressing the gathering Mr Raju Basnet congratulated the athletes of various fields and highlighted the qualifying archer Mr Tarundeep Rai in the Paris Olympics 2024. He emphasized the importance of sports in fostering community spirit and promoting a healthy lifestyle. He applauded the efforts of the Sikkim Olympic Association in organizing such a comprehensive and inclusive event. He also stressed the importance of sports in building a cohesive and healthy society and reiterated the government's commitment to supporting athletic endeavours and enhancing sports infrastructure in the state. He further stated that such celebrations serve as a reminder of the enduring legacy of the Olympic movement and its relevance in our lives today.
Mr Kuber Bhandari in his short address extended his greetings on the International Olympic Day celebrations with the theme "Let's Move and Celebrate" were a resounding success. He said that the day-long event not only promoted physical activity and sportsmanship but also fostered a sense of community and solidarity. He stated that the event successfully engaged the youth, encouraging them to embrace sports as a vital part of their daily lives. He further expressed that special events such as walking races were organized to promote the message that sports and physical activity are beneficial at any age. He urged youths, and students to enthusiastically take part in various physical activities. Lastly, he concluded by saying that the state continues to nurture its sports culture, such celebrations serve as a powerful reminder of the positive impact of sports on individuals and society as a whole.
The International Olympic Day event organised by the Sikkim Olympic Association also had the presence of Mr Jas Lal Pradhan, General Secretary, Sikkim Olympic Association, Ms Sandhya Gurung, Dronacharya Awardee & Boxing Coach, Mr Tashi Wangyal, President, Cycling Association, Mr BK Roka, President, Khoko Association, Ms Savitri Pradhan, General Secretary, Khoko Association, Mr C Zangpo, President, Badminton Association, Dr RB Biswakarma, Additional Director, Sports & Welfare Association and young athletes.
The Vote of thanks was proposed by Mr Jas Lal Pradhan, General Secretary, Sikkim Olympic Association.