Shillong, Jan 20: The fifth edition of the Meghalaya Games reached its culmination today in Tura, with East Khasi Hills crowned the overall champions with 359 medals over the week-long event, including 132 gold.
Present at the closing were Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, Sports & Youth Affairs Minister Shakliar Warjri, other MLAs and MDCs, senior civil servants and Meghalaya State Olympic Association officials.
It was announced that Jowai will be the host of the next Meghalaya Games, which are slated for 2025.
Overall champions EKH ended with a medal tally of 132 gold, 105 silver and 122 bronze. Ri-Bhoi were in second place with 79 medals while West Jaintia Hills came third with 68 medals.
“As we bid farewell to the spectacular event, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all who made it a grand success. Hosting the Games in Tura has been a joyous experience and I am truly grateful to the gracious people of Tura for being exceptional hosts,” the CM said. “The organisation of the Games offered us valuable insights into the logistics required to host world-class sports events and will certainly help in our preparation for the National Games, a part of which will be hosted in Tura.”
The closing ceremony saw the parade of athletes, followed by a special performance celebrating the Meghalaya Day, which officially takes place tomorrow.
The event also witnessed performances by Haystack Ladies, Riprap, DJ and colourful fireworks display.
(Photo contributed)
