Williamnagar, Aug 5: Williamnagar marked a new chapter in its sporting journey on Wednesday by hosting the Elite Men & Women State Boxing Championship 2026 for the first time, with the Williamnagar District Sports Association (WDSA) Stadium transformed into a boxing arena for the three-day event.
The championship, which runs from August 5 to 7, has brought together some of Meghalaya’s top boxers from nine districts, all competing for state honours across various men’s and women’s weight categories.
Organised by the Meghalaya Boxing Association in collaboration with the East Garo Hills District Boxing Association, the tournament is being held with support from the Government of Meghalaya and the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs.
Boxers from East Garo Hills, North Garo Hills and West Garo Hills are among those in action, alongside participants representing the other districts of the state.
The opening ceremony was attended by Deputy Commissioner of East Garo Hills R.P. Marak, Extra Assistant Commissioner Asish Koch, veteran Indian boxing coach and former Assistant Chief Coach of the Indian Boxing Team T.L. Gupta, District Sports Officer Mongera M. Marak and officials of the Meghalaya Boxing Association.
Speaking at the inaugural function, Deputy Commissioner R.P. Marak congratulated the Meghalaya Boxing Association and the East Garo Hills District Boxing Association for bringing the state championship to Williamnagar, describing it as a proud moment for the district.
He encouraged the boxers to make the most of the opportunity, saying success in boxing depends not only on physical strength but also on discipline, courage, endurance, determination and focus. He urged the athletes to compete in the true spirit of sportsmanship and give their best throughout the tournament.
Despite intermittent rain, a large number of spectators turned up at the WDSA Stadium to witness the first-ever state boxing championship to be held in Williamnagar.
