SHILLONG: The Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, Government of Meghalaya, in collaboration with the Meghalaya Athletics Association, organised the State Level Inter-School Athletics Meet 2026 at the SAI STC Shillong, NEHU Campus, bringing together young athletes from across the state to compete at the highest school-level platform.
On the opening day of the competition, several events were conducted, including the long jump, high jump, 60m race, 100m race, javelin throw, 600m race, 4x400m relay, long jump with a 5m runway and javelin throw with a 10m runway, among others.
Addressing the gathering, Working President of The Meghalaya State Olympic Association (MSOA) John F. Kharshiing congratulated the participating athletes for earning the opportunity to represent their respective districts at the state-level championship.
“Your presence here itself is proof of your hard work, discipline and determination,” he said, adding that every successful athlete begins their journey at the school and grassroots level.
Highlighting the importance of athletics, Kharshiing described it as the foundation of all sports, helping athletes develop speed, endurance, strength, focus and character. He encouraged participants to remain committed to their goals and not be discouraged by setbacks.
“Participation itself is a victory. The courage to compete and the determination to continue are the true qualities of a champion,” he said.
Drawing inspiration from legendary athletes including Jesse Owens and Usain Bolt, Kharshiing stressed the importance of discipline, dedication and hard work in achieving sporting success.
He also informed athletes and parents that Meghalaya will host the 39th National Games in March 2027, describing it as a historic opportunity for the state. Kharshiing credited Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma and Sports Minister Wailad Shylla for strengthening the state’s sports ecosystem through enhanced athlete incentives, scholarships and infrastructure development.
He also informed that the cash reward for gold medal winners at national competitions has been increased significantly, while athletes winning medals at the National Games, International will also be guaranteed government jobs – a move he described as a major motivation for young sportspersons across Meghalaya.
Kharshiing further noted that sports infrastructure, including stadiums and training facilities, is being upgraded across the state to nurture future champions at national and international levels.
Emphasising the role of sports in promoting unity and cultural exchange, he recalled how previous Meghalaya Games enabled athletes from different districts to visit new places and build stronger bonds of friendship.
He urged athletes to compete with honesty, discipline and sportsmanship.
“A champion is not produced in a gym. A champion is produced out of deep determination, passion and hunger to reach the top,” he said, while wishing the State Level Inter-School Athletics Meet 2026 success and memorable performances.
On the occasion, John F. Kharshiing hoisted the flag to mark the inauguration of the competition and officially declared the State Level Inter-School Athletics Meet 2026 open in the presence of Assistant Director of Sports and Youth Affairs, Government of Meghalaya, P.B. War Nongbri, DSO,officials and other dignitaries.
