Shillong, Aug 13: Meghalaya is set to make its debut in competitive triathlon as the state sends its first-ever team to participate in a triathlon event in Pune.
The team comprises of 12 athletes, including five boys and seven girls, who will represent Meghalaya after months of training and preparation.
Speaking ahead of the team’s departure, Rephica Becky Pde, President of the Meghalaya Triathlon Association, expressed confidence in the athletes and hoped they would return with medals.
“We are five boys and seven girls, and after months of training, we are ready. We hope to bring some medals home, and we hope for your prayers and wishes,” Pde said.
Explaining the demands of the sport, Pde said triathlon combines swimming, cycling and running into a single event, requiring athletes to develop skills across all three disciplines.
“Triathlon is a combination of three sports: swimming, cycling and running, all at one event. It is a very difficult and challenging sport. To be good at all three, it’s kind of very hard,” she said.
The Meghalaya Triathlon Association is also encouraging more people to take up the sport and participate in its upcoming training programmes and events.
Pde also expressed her gratitude to Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma for his continued support and blessings, while also thanking the athletes’ families, friends and well-wishers for their encouragement.
“We want to thank our Honourable Chief Minister Shri Conrad Sangma sir for his constant support and blessings, and our family and friends and well-wishers, too,” she said.
As the athletes leave for Pune, Meghalaya’s first triathlon team will look to make a strong impression at the event and mark the beginning of the state’s journey in the sport.
