37th National Games will begin in October this year even as the inaugural day remains yet to be confirmed and subject to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s schedule, stated Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant on Wednesday.
The Games will open on 23rd, 24th or 25th October, and go on till 10th November said the Chief Minister. “We will fix the inaugural ceremony date as soon as possible and the grand opening ceremony will be staged at Fatorda stadium. We want all Goans, sports associations to come together in preparations,” said Dr Sawant during a press conference.
The CM claimed that sports tourism is drawing a big number of international tourists to Goa, citing events like half IronMan triathlon and WTT in the past. He feels National Games will be able to create a sporting atmosphere in the state and boost sports tourism to add to the footfalls that Goa draws for spiritual tourism.
Indian Olympic Association president PT Usha hoped that the National Games will be organised in a ‘very very nice way.
“IOA delegates have been visiting regularly and inspecting the venues. They are very happy about it and we are also very confident,” stated the legendary former India sprinter.
Sports Minister Govind Gaude emphasised on infrastructure readiness of the state.
“38 disciplines have been finalised and Goa is ready to host the National Games as the entire infrastructure is already ready. However, some refurbishment in terms of painting, cleaning have to be done and that will be completed by 15th July 2023. In relation to the requirements to achieve the target, the necessary tenders have been floated,” said Gaude, who stressed that the scale of administration and planning is shaping towards taking the Games to the next level.
Meanwhile, IOA technical teams have been visiting Goa regularly for inspections related to the technicalities binding various sports disciplines. Another group of technical officials will be in the state soon, added the Sports Minister.
Games Technical Conduct Committee chairman for 37th National Games, Amitabh Sharma hailed the preparedness on the field and will of the government as ‘both are of very, very high level.’
“The technicality as far as the conduct of the Games is concerned, is absolutely at its prime. We are really looking forward to absolute excitement that is being built up around the 37th National Games and we look forward to a great sporting event that will raise the bar of sports in this country,” asserted the IOA Executive Council Member.
IOA joint-secretary Kalyan Chaubey reflected on the need to change Goa’s image from just being a football-playing state. The former India football goalkeeper and current president of the All India Football Federation is hopeful that various sports federations will come up with events in Goa round the year so that it will be known as multiple sports-playing state.
