Shillong, July 7: A 12-year-old competitor and a 64-year-old veteran shooter stood on the same firing line during the 11th Meghalaya State Shooting Championship, reflecting both the growing popularity and inclusivity of the sport as Meghalaya steps up preparations for hosting the 39th National Games in 2027.
Held at the Assam Regimental Centre from June 30 to July 5, the six-day championship brought together 128 shooters from six districts who competed across 68 events, making it one of the largest state shooting competitions organised in Meghalaya.
More than just a state championship, the event served as a competitive platform for the shooters to sharpen their skills and gain valuable exposure ahead of the National Games, at the same time giving officials a platform to assess the depth of talent emerging from across Meghalaya.
Among the participants were the youngest competitor, 12-year-old Kerdaiai Syiemlieh, who competed in the 10m Air Rifle event, and the oldest, 64-year-old John Kharshiing, who featured in the Senior Masters 25m Pistol category.
Shooters from East Khasi Hills, West Khasi Hills, East Jaintia Hills, West Jaintia Hills, North Garo Hills and West Garo Hills took part in the championship, reflecting the steady expansion of the sport beyond Shillong and into other districts.
Shooting Association of Meghalaya (SAM) president John F. Kharshiing said the championship was an important step in building a lasting shooting legacy for the state while expressing confidence in Meghalaya’s preparations for the National Games.
Commissioner and Secretary for Sports and Youth Affairs Dr Vijay Kumar D, who attended as chief guest, presented prizes to the winners and emphasised the importance of discipline, focus and precision as qualities that would help Meghalaya’s shooters compete at higher levels. He also informed that the Government of Meghalaya has resolved to build an Integrated Shooting Range.
The championship was also attended by Assam Regimental Centre Commandant Brig Vikas Rai Shadilya and Deputy Commandant Col Mahender Pde.
In his vote of thanks, Shooting Association of Meghalaya General Secretary Neil Sootinck said the championship once again demonstrated the talent emerging from different parts of the state and reaffirmed the association’s commitment to providing greater opportunities for shooters. He also thanked the athletes, coaches, parents and the staff of the Assam Regimental Centre for contributing to the successful conduct of the championship.
