by Niraj N.Prabhu
I believe it is time for Goa’s stunning coastline of 193.95 kms in length, to be looked at as a grand opportunity to develop a culture of beach sport in the state. Being a regular runner at the beach over the last 10 years or so, I have been shocked at the rate of decline in numbers of Goans taking to the seashore for fitness activities in general.
While football is a common passion across Goa and is also played by local communities at all the beaches, people hardly try their hand at other sports. Cricket is second most popular sport in Goa and locals can be seen playing with a tennis ball, on the wet sandy part of the beach. Most of the times, tourists also indulge in the recreational beach version of football and cricket.
One can witness windsurfing and kiteboarding events being organised regularly along the popular coastal belts of this tourist paradise state. Stand-up Paddling (SUP) and kayaking have also become trendy sports activities at some beaches, predominantly due to interest shown by tourists. These international watersports disciplines are also promoted by Goa Tourism, across its social media channels in order to draw high quality tourists.
Nevertheless, the local populace has largely been unenthusiastic about venturing into the beach sports domain for various reasons like littered garbage menace, stray animals; and may be due to general lack of interest in exploring the sea or because of certain personal inhibitions or reluctance!
I would like to emphasise that there can be multiple benefits of regularly spending some time at the beaches. One can swim at the marked safe swimming zones under the guidance of the experts of the Government-appointed lifesaving agency, which is also doing its best to educate the beachgoers about the approach to the Sea.
Various other sports that can be played among family members and friends include frisbee, beach volleyball, kabaddi, tennikoit or ring-tennis; or one can simply run-walk or jog to experience the serene environment early in the morning or at the sunset. I believe that the energy boost one gets while working out at the beach, is unmatched by any other activity indoors.
To inspire more people to enjoy the seashore for healthy gains, the local authorities have to come up with necessary basic infrastructure by developing field of play across Goa’s beaches. Perhaps, charting out the dedicated and inclusive spaces might motivate more communities to allot time to play different games at the sea shore.
While we the Goans encounter numerous challenges that come with being citizens of the tourism hub, we are also very fortunate to find a beach at a short distance where we can refresh and recharge for the day. Let us pledge to become healthier by making optimum usage of the wonderful treasures of Mother Nature and live our lives ‘Goenkar’ size!
