The 37th edition of the National Games 2023, India’s own multi-sport event inspired by the Olympics, is currently in full swing in five cities across Goa – Mapusa, Margao, Panjim, Ponda, and Vasco. This marks a historic occasion as Goa is hosting the National Games for the very first time.
The event has brought together athletes from 28 states, eight Union Territories, and the Services Sports Control Board (SSCB) to compete in a diverse range of sports. The National Games, which began on October 26, is set to conclude on November 9. It’s a monumental occasion with over 10,000 athletes participating, a substantial increase from the previous edition held in Gujarat.
Competitions encompass a wide spectrum of sports, including traditional Olympic disciplines and indigenous sports like mallakhamb, kho kho, and kabaddi, among others. Notably, the sports program for the National Games 2023 has been expanded to include Sqay martial arts, rollball, sepaktakraw, kalaripayattu, pencak silat, and mini golf. Additionally, yachting and taekwondo, which were excluded in the 2022 edition, have made their return in Goa.
Maharashtra is currently leading the medals table, having secured 193 medals, consisting of 67 gold, 61 silver, and 65 bronze. Moreover, 29 teams have achieved at least one gold medal, making the competition fierce and competitive.
The Services team stands as the four-time defending champions of the National Games, having claimed victory in 2007, 2011, 2015, and 2022. In the last edition, they secured 128 medals, with 61 golds, 35 silvers, and 32 bronze medals. The 2022 edition saw as many as 29 teams securing at least one gold medal.
In essence, the National Games 2023 is a celebration of India’s sporting diversity and excellence, bringing together athletes from all corners of the country to showcase their talents across a wide array of sports. This year’s event not only builds on the success of past editions but also introduces new sports, highlighting the rich tapestry of India’s sporting heritage.
Source: https://olympics.com/en/news/national-games-2023-goa-medals-tally-table
Edited: Sakshi Semwal
