HT Digital
Friday, October 4: The Shooting Association of Meghalaya (SAM) recently made a remarkable return from the 11th North East Zone Shooting Championship, held in Dimapur, Nagaland, between September 25 and October 1, 2024. The event saw intense competition across various categories, but the Meghalaya contingent stood out with their exceptional performances. The 53-member team not only displayed their dedication and hard work but also brought back a total of 28 medals to their home state—an achievement that resonates deeply within the Meghalaya sporting community.
Their success came in the form of six gold, twelve silver, and ten bronze medals, a tally that showcases the skill and determination of the shooters. Rifle and pistol events were the main categories in which the Meghalaya shooters competed, with the team excelling in both, particularly in the pistol events. Despite facing challenging weather conditions, with temperatures soaring above 40 degrees Celsius during the competition, the shooters from Meghalaya managed to deliver performances that surpassed expectations. This medal haul not only marks a personal victory for the athletes but also places Meghalaya’s shooting community on the regional sports map as a serious contender.
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Among the highlights of this championship was the participation of three hearing-impaired shooters from Meghalaya. Their inclusion and success in the event demonstrated not only the inclusiveness of the sport but also the unwavering commitment and passion that transcends physical limitations. These athletes, overcoming challenges far beyond the competition itself, earned medals and accolades, making their achievements all the more inspiring. Their contribution not only added to the overall medal tally but also served as a powerful testament to the fact that sporting excellence is achievable for all, regardless of obstacles.
However, the event wasn’t without its difficulties. The intense heat was particularly punishing for the rifle shooters, who had to endure temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius. Such weather conditions presented significant challenges, especially for events that require high levels of concentration and stability over extended periods. Rifle shooting, in particular, demands precision, focus, and calm, and competing under such extreme heat tested the limits of even the most experienced athletes.
Unfortunately, the heat did take its toll on some of the rifle shooters, who found it difficult to perform at their best. This led to a few losses in the rifle events, a setback that could have easily diminished the team’s overall success. However, the pistol shooters from Meghalaya stepped up to fill the gap left by their rifle counterparts. Their strong performances in the pistol categories more than compensated for the challenges faced in rifle shooting, and they played a critical role in boosting the overall medal count for the state.
This ability of the pistol shooters to rise to the occasion in such challenging circumstances highlights the depth of talent within the Meghalaya shooting contingent. Their resilience and adaptability were key factors in ensuring that the team returned home with such an impressive medal haul. The focus, grit, and determination they displayed were exemplary, especially given the adverse conditions. Their performance underscores the importance of teamwork and collective effort in such high-stakes competitions, where the success of the team depends on the ability of individual members to support one another.
The Shooting Association of Meghalaya expressed its deep gratitude to several key supporters and organizers who made this success possible. SAM thanked the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, Government of Meghalaya, whose support has been instrumental in promoting shooting as a sport in the state. The backing from the government has provided these athletes with the necessary resources, training facilities, and encouragement to excel at a competitive level. Additionally, SAM extended its appreciation to the event organizers, whose efforts ensured a smooth and well-conducted championship, despite the weather challenges. The dedication of officials, volunteers, and supporters also played a crucial role in the team’s success, and SAM acknowledged the importance of this collective effort in helping their shooters shine on such a prominent stage.
The performance of the Meghalaya team at the 11th North East Zone Shooting Championship not only highlights their talent and hard work but also serves as a promising sign of what the future holds for shooting sports in the state. The achievements of the shooters, especially those who triumphed despite physical limitations or adverse conditions, are sure to inspire the next generation of athletes in Meghalaya. This victory is not just about medals; it’s about pushing boundaries, overcoming challenges, and achieving success through perseverance. With continued support and investment in sports infrastructure and training, Meghalaya’s shooting community is well on its way to establishing itself as a dominant force in the region and beyond.
