The 33rd Sikkim State Veterans & Masters Badminton Championship concluded at Paljor Indoor Stadium, today. The tournament was organised by the Badminton Association of Sikkim (BAS).
Ms Kala Rai, MLA cum Advisor Rural Development Department, attended the event as the Chief Guest. Other dignitaries included Ms Tshering Palden Bhutia, Deputy Mayor Gangtok Municipal Corporation, Mr Mahendra Chettri, SDM Gangtok, and Mr Tseten Dorjee, Principal Director Buildings and Housing Department.
Ms Kala Rai in her address praised the Badminton Association of Sikkim for organising the tournament and encouraged more people to take part in sports. She urged young players to stay dedicated, improve their skills, and aim to represent the State at national and international levels. She stressed the importance of discipline and hard work in sports, which help in personal growth and character building.
She assured that the State Government is committed to supporting sports and athletes. She spoke about efforts to improve sports facilities, create better opportunities, and help young athletes build their future.
Ms Kala Rai also addressed the rising problems of drug addiction and suicide in the State. She called for urgent action to tackle these issues, highlighting how sports can help young people stay focused and avoid bad habits. She urged everyone to work with the government to raise awareness, support those in need, and create a healthier environment for young people.
Mr C Zangpo, President BAS in his address said the championship aims to promote badminton, encourage young players, and provide a platform for skill development. He emphasised the importance of discipline, sportsmanship, and hard work in preparing for higher-level competitions.
He reaffirmed BAS’s commitment to improving coaching, training, and facilities for athletes and encouraged players to participate with dedication.
Earlier, the programme began with a welcome address by Mr Sukanta Das, General Secretary cum Organising Secretary BAS.
A prize distribution ceremony was held, where medals and certificates were presented to winners and participants.
The winners of the 33rd Sikkim State Veterans & Masters Badminton Championship were –
Men’s 65+ (Singles): Mr LB Rai
Men’s 65+ (Doubles): Mr Dhiren Lama and Mr LB Rai
Men’s 60+ (Singles): Mr Bhupal Rai
Men’s 60+ (Doubles): Mr Dhiren Lama and Mr LB Rai
Men’s 55+ (Singles): Mr Bhanu Pradhan
Men’s 55+ (Doubles): Mr Karma Bhutia and Mr Anand Singh Bisht
Men’s 50+ (Singles): Mr Laxman Prasad
Men’s 50+ (Doubles): Mr IK Rai and Mr Mohan Thapa
Men’s 45+ (Singles): Mr Arjun Tamang
Men’s 45+ (Doubles): Mr Mojesh Bhutia and Mr Mohan Thapa
Mixed 35+ (Doubles): Mr Dawa Bhutia and Ms Rosy Lepcha
Men’s 40+ (Singles): Mr Arjun Tamang
Men’s 40+ (Doubles): Mr Mojesh Bhutia and Mr Dhanraj Subba
Mixed 40+ (Doubles): Mr Bhanu Pradhan and Ms Tika Chettri
Men’s 35+ (Singles): Mr Hemant Rai
Men’s 35+ (Doubles): Mr Kiran Rai and Mr Tshering P. Sherpa
Mixed 35+ (Doubles): Mr Tshering P. Sherpa and Ms Basanti Rai
The event was attended by Mr Jaslal Pradhan, Arjuna Awardee, International Boxer, Mr C Zangpo, President BAS, executive members of BAS and other sports organisations, Mr Kuber Bhandari, President of Sikkim Olympic Association, Mr BB Subba, Joint Secretary Sikkim Olympic Association, coaches and participants.
The championship concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr Sukanta Das, General Secretary and Organising Secretary.
Ms Kala Rai, MLA cum Advisor RDD officially announced the closure of the 33rd Sikkim State Veterans & Masters Badminton Championship.
