Tura, July 16: The trophies of the 135th Durand Cup were showcased in Tura on Wednesday as part of a ceremonial roadshow organised by the Indian Armed Forces in collaboration with the Government of Meghalaya.
For the third consecutive year, football enthusiasts in Tura had the opportunity to witness the tournament’s three prestigious trophies – the Durand Cup, the President’s Cup and the Shimla Trophy – as they were paraded through the town ahead of the historic tournament.
The trophy roadshow was flagged off from the P. A. Sangma Stadium in Dakopgre, accompanied by the Black Falcon motorcycle group. The procession travelled through Nazing Bazar, Araimile, Tetengkol, Hawakhana, Ringrey via the AOC Petrol Pump before concluding at Chandmary, where the trophies were displayed for the public.
The event was flagged off by J. D. Sangma, Chairman of the Tura Municipal Board, in the presence of officials from the Indian Armed Forces. Also present were Saurabh Suman, Assistant Commissioner of Tura; Lt Col Aibanjop Sooting (Retd), Zilla Sainik Welfare Officer; and Saljagring M. Marak, District Sports Officer, East Garo Hills, and Assistant Director, Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs.
Addressing the gathering, Suman highlighted the rich legacy of the Durand Cup, describing it as the third-oldest football tournament in the world and the oldest football competition in Asia. He said Meghalaya’s continued association with the tournament over the past three years reflects the state’s growing stature in Indian football as well as the unwavering support of the Indian Armed Forces in promoting the sport.
He also encouraged aspiring footballers from the region to pursue excellence and make the most of the opportunities created through tournaments such as the Durand Cup, urging them to continue strengthening Meghalaya’s rich footballing tradition.
