Shillong, July 6: Meghalaya’s largest state-level shooting championship wrapped up today at the Assam Regimental Centre here, with 128 shooters from across the state competing in 68 events over six days from June 30 to July 5.
The championship drew participants from East Khasi Hills, West Khasi Hills, East Jaintia Hills, West Jaintia Hills, North Garo Hills and West Garo Hills, marking one of the widest district representations for the sport in the state. Officials said the event was also an important step in Meghalaya’s preparations to host the 39th National Games in 2027, giving local shooters valuable competitive exposure ahead of the national stage.
The six-day competition stood out for its inclusivity. The range saw a 52-year age gap between the oldest and youngest competitors, with 64-year-old John Kharshiing taking part in Sr. Masters Pistol 25M and 12-year-old Kerdaiai Syiemlieh competing in Air Rifle 10M.
Daily prize distribution ceremonies were held to felicitate winners. On July 3, DIG Naval Singh of BSF Jowai Sector, Retd. Col. Aibanjop Sooting, PWD Under Secretary Phrangki Pale and Meghalaya State Government Employees Federation Secretary General Mrs. B. Kharshandi were present. On July 4, Paiem K.M. Syiemlieh, Dy Syiem of Hima Nongkhaw, and entrepreneur Shri Vedant Jain attended as guests.
The closing ceremony on July 5 was led by Dr. Vijay Kumar D, IAS, Commissioner and Secretary of Sports and Youth Affairs, Government of Meghalaya, who presented awards to top performers. In his address, he underlined discipline, focus and precision as key qualities for athletes and announced that the government has decided to build an Integrated Shooting Range in the state as a long-term facility for shooters.
Welcoming the gathering, Shooting Association of Meghalaya President John F. Kharshiing spoke about creating a lasting shooting legacy for Meghalaya and expressed confidence in the state’s readiness for the National Games. The ceremony was also attended by Assam Regimental Centre Commandant Brig Vikas Rai Shadilya and Deputy Commandant Col. Mahender Pde as guests of honour. Delivering the vote of thanks, SAM General Secretary Neil Sootinck lauded the talent emerging from every district and thanked athletes, parents, coaches and the staff of the Assam Regimental Centre for their support in making the championship a success.
