Chief Minister, Dr Pramod Sawant graced the start of the badminton event in the 37th National Games Goa, at Dr Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Stadium at Taleigao Plateau on Thursday morning.
Sports Minister Govind Gaude, MLA Jennifer Monserrate and MLA Daji Salkar were also present among others.
Dr Sawant welcomed the shuttlers from all over the country and emphasised the commitment of the government to transform Goa into a sports tourism hub.
Sports Minister Gaude hailed the efforts of all stakeholders in realising Goa’s dream of hosting the prestigious Games. He also stressed that the school students coming to watch the event at the Games, will not only create a great atmosphere but this experience will go a long way towards cementing the love of sports in their mind.
Sandeep Heble, Chef De Mission for Goa, expressed his feelings, saying: “It’s great to have the National Games finally here, and to welcome all of India’s finest athletes to our shores. While the inaugural ceremony is set for October 26, the badminton event kickstarts today, where Goa’s women will battle it out on the Courts to make their presence felt. The Men will play later during the day.”
The Secretary of Goa Badminton Association also sounded confident of the success of the Games being held in Goa.
“Goa has a rich history of being exceptional sporting hosts, and I have no doubt that the players are going to have an extraordinary time here. For the first time ever, so many different disciplines are being held together at the National Games, making this the biggest and best edition to date. I want to express my appreciation for the unwavering efforts of the Goa Government, the Indian Olympic Association, the Games Committee, SAG, GOA and all others involved, as their dedication has made this remarkable event possible.”
