The Tawang National Sports Day celebrations have officially begun! The three-day event kicked off with incredible energy at the Gyalwa Tsangyang Gyatso High Altitude Sports Stadium on Friday, bringing the entire community together to honour India’s sporting spirit.
The event was inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner Tawang, Namgyal Angmo, who lit the ceremonial lamp after floral tributes were paid to hockey wizard Major Dhyan Chand. Addressing the enthusiastic crowd, she praised local sports bodies for their dedication. She highlighted how sports build discipline and resilience, giving a special shout-out to the young archers for keeping the traditional sport alive and thriving.
Archery and Football Take Center Stage
The opening day was packed with action, truly setting the tone for the Tawang National Sports Day festivities. The archery competition was a major highlight, with archers across different age groups showcasing incredible skill and focus.
In the Sub-Junior category, Tsering Wangchu hit the bullseye for first place, followed by Tenzin Dondup and Tenzin Dorjee. The Junior category saw Tsering Dorjee clinch the top spot, while the Senior competition was won by Sonam.
Later in the day, the energy shifted to the football field for a nail-biting exhibition match. A team led by MLA Namgey Tsering, representing the Tawang District Archery Association, faced off against the DC-XI. In a thrilling contest that went down to the wire, the TDAA team edged out their opponents with a 7–6 victory.
Honouring a Legend, Inspiring the Future
District Sports Officer Sange Tsering reminded everyone of the day’s significance, paying homage to Major Dhyan Chand’s monumental legacy. He emphasized how the hockey legend continues to inspire athletes across the country.
Before the competitions began, young archers who are receiving professional training were felicitated with new tracksuits, a gesture aimed at encouraging the next generation of sporting talent from the region.
The celebration is far from over. A cycling rally starting from the Giant Buddha statue is planned, along with more competitions running until August 31. It’s a fitting tribute, uniting everyone in a shared passion for sports and teamwork.
