Goa’s sporting revolution that aims to emphasise the new image of the State as a sports destination, got a further boost with the grand release of the mascot ‘Moga’ in view of the upcoming 37th National Games.
After the incessant buildup offline and online with a campaign asking who is Moga? Where is Moga?, asserting Moga is coming; the sports enthusiasts were in for grand entertaining evening at the Dr Shyama Prasad Mukherjee stadium to unveil the mascot and Goa’s team jersey on Sunday.
Sports Minister, Govind Gaude in his characteristic thundering address delivered a passionate appeal to sportspersons, while explaining the attributes of the mascot.
“The true significance of the mascot lies in its ability to ignite the flames of inspiration. It transcends the physical form becoming an intangible force that drives the athletes, we present to you the mascot of 37th National Games, the Indian Bison ‘Moga’,” stated Gaude.
“The name ‘Moga’ is derived from Konkani word ‘Mog’ meaning love. “And ‘Moga’ symbolises passion and love of athletes for their respective sports disciplines. Moga is the embodiment of love for the spirit of competition,” added the Sports Minister.
Chief Minister, Dr Pramod Sawant hailed the mascot launch as the start of a revolution in the field of sports.
“Goans were awaiting the Games since 2008. And today after many years, and in the Azadi ka Amrit Kaal; on the Goa Revolution Day, this is a revolution begining in the field of Sports in Goa so as to develop sports personalities. I call upon the Goan youth to be ready to fuel the sporting revolution,” stated Dr Sawant.
Boxing legend MC Mary Kom believes that this edition of National Games will enhance Goa’s image as sports hub in the country. “Goa will be known as land of sun, sand and sports after 37th National Games,” said the Olympic Bronze-Medallist.
Indian Olympic Association president Dr PT Usha is confident that Goa will deliver their best.
“Let us embark on this incredible journey towards 37th Games and let us all work together to take Olympic movement ahead by creating an atmosphere of brotherhood , sportsmanship and excellence. We at IOA are confident that National Games in Goa shall be great sporting spectacle in which many new records will be made and it shall be an athlete-centric Games and the synergy between IOA and Government of Goa shall set new benchmark for the National Games programme,” said the legendary Usha, who is also known as Queen of Indian Track and Field.
