The East Khasi Hills athletic success has become a source of pride for Meghalaya, as the district emerged as the undisputed champion of the 2025 State Athletic Meet. The three-day event, held at the JN Sports Complex in Shillong, witnessed intense competition among athletes from all districts. However, it was East Khasi Hills that stole the show, bagging the maximum number of gold medals and setting several meet records.
East Khasi Hills athletic success marks Meghalaya’s rising potential
The performance of East Khasi Hills reflects the district’s commitment to sports excellence. Athletes from this region dominated track and field events, including sprints, long-distance races, jumps, and throws. Out of the total 80 gold medals awarded, East Khasi Hills alone secured 28, followed by West Garo Hills with 15 and Ri-Bhoi with 12.
In the boys’ 100m and 400m events, runners from East Khasi Hills clocked record times, raising hopes for their selection in the upcoming National Games. Similarly, the girls’ relay team from the district stunned everyone with a flawless baton exchange and strategic running.
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The District Sports Officer of East Khasi Hills, Marbaniang Dkhar, credited the success to rigorous training, community support, and early talent spotting. “This is just the beginning. Our eyes are now firmly set on representing Meghalaya at the national level,” Dkhar said.
Youth training boosts the success
Over the last two years, the Meghalaya government has invested heavily in grassroots-level training. With a special focus on East Khasi Hills, the state’s Department of Sports and Youth Affairs launched several schemes including free coaching camps, nutritional support, and infrastructure upgrades.
The result of these initiatives was visible throughout the meet. Athletes from rural and semi-urban areas of East Khasi Hills performed exceptionally well. One such rising star is 17-year-old Bansara Lyngdoh, who won gold in the women’s 800m and 1500m races. She credited her coaches and her school’s sports program for her progress.
“I train every morning before school and again in the evening. The new track in our village has made all the difference,” said Bansara, who now hopes to qualify for the National Games trials.
National Games preparation driven by East Khasi Hills success
The Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Conrad K. Sangma, congratulated the winners and stressed the importance of preparing for the National Games scheduled later this year. In his speech at the closing ceremony, he applauded the East Khasi Hills athletic success and announced more training camps to sharpen athletes’ skills further.
“The state is proud of East Khasi Hills. We will ensure that our athletes get the best support and exposure to compete with confidence at the national level,” the Chief Minister stated.
The Sports Department is now finalizing a list of top-performing athletes from the state meet to train under national-level coaches. The focus will be on enhancing their techniques, endurance, and mental strength.
Moreover, physiotherapists, dietitians, and sports psychologists will be part of the support team. The goal is to bring home medals from the National Games and elevate Meghalaya’s reputation in the country’s athletics scene.
Community spirit fuels East Khasi Hills athletic success
What sets East Khasi Hills apart is not just talent but also the community’s involvement in promoting sports. Local clubs, schools, and even churches played a role in encouraging participation. Financial support from local entrepreneurs and NGOs helped many young athletes afford shoes, kits, and transport.
Events like the annual inter-school sports meet in Shillong and Mawphlang also contributed to building a competitive spirit among young athletes. These platforms helped identify budding talents who are now shining at state and national levels.
With such a solid foundation, East Khasi Hills is quickly becoming a model for sports development in the North East.
The East Khasi Hills athletic success story is not just about medals. It’s about dedication, planning, and unity. With a strong vision and continued support from both the government and society, Meghalaya is poised to make a mark at the National Games. The achievements of East Khasi Hills will surely inspire other districts and pave the way for a new era in state athletics.
