Pakyong, 5 August 2024
The 78th Independence Day Open Knockout Football Tournament 2024, organised by Pakyong Progressive Youths in collaboration with Pakyong Sporting Club, has entered its third day at St. Xavier’s School Ground today.
The festivities commenced on August 3 with an inaugural ceremony graced by Mrs Pamin Lepcha, Area MLA cum Advisor, Social Welfare and Women & Child Development.
Today’s event was graced by Mr Rajkumar Niroula, AE Irrigation Department, as the distinguished Chief Guest of the Day, along with Mr Arun Agarwal and Mr Dilip Bishnoi as the Guest of Honour.
Also present were Ms Laden Lhamu Bhutia, Zilla Adhakshya; Mr Sangay Gyatso Bhutia, ADC Pakyong; Mr Sonam Pinsto Bhutia, DFO (T); Mr Inchung Bhutia, officials from various departments and local gentry.
The day featured a football match between Gangtok Himalayan Sporting Club against Birjang United (Nepal). The final score of the match was 3-3, leading to a penalty shootout to determine the winner. Birjang United (Nepal) secured their victory in the penalty shootouts, leading to a win for their team.
Mr Ravraj Chaudhary from Birjang United was honoured as the man of the match for his exceptional contribution on the field.
The event also featured cultural performances by the students of Pachey Senior Secondary School, adding a vibrant touch to the festivities.
The Open Knockout Football Tournament 2024 has a lineup of 14 teams vying for the title.
The tournament champions will be rewarded Rs. three lakhs, adding to the competition, while the runners-up will receive Rs. two lakhs.
