By Aparmita Das | SHILLONG:
The 5th Meghalaya Games reached its climax at the P.A. Sangma Stadium in Tura, concluding a week-long showcase of athletic talent. East Khasi Hills emerged as the undisputed champions with a whopping 132 gold, 105 silver, and 122 bronze medals, totalling an impressive 359 medals.
In stark contrast, Ri-Bhoi secured the second spot with 79 medals, while West Jaintia Hills claimed the third position with 68 medals. The glaring difference in medal counts raises questions about the competitive landscape and the factors contributing to such a vast divide.
This unprecedented dominance by East Khasi Hills brings attention to potential disparities in training facilities, resources, or overall sports infrastructure across different regions of Meghalaya. Exploring the root causes of such discrepancies becomes crucial in ensuring a fair and competitive platform for all athletes.
The 5th Meghalaya Games, with its vast difference in medal tallies, prompts a deeper reflection on the state’s sports development strategies. Addressing these issues can pave the way for a more inclusive and balanced competition in future editions.
The remarkable achievement of East Khasi Hills, while commendable, underscores the need for a comprehensive evaluation of the sporting landscape to foster equitable opportunities and nurture talent across all districts of Meghalaya.