Have you gazed up at the skies in Panjim lately and spotted those balloons suspended mid-air along the picturesque banks of the Mandovi river? Well, those whimsical balloons are the inviting beacon calling out to you to be a part of the electrifying National Games.
Goa is gearing up to host athletes from all 28 states and various union territories, in addition to a special team representing the Indian Armed Forces. This grand sporting spectacle, the 37th edition of the National Games, is scheduled to take place from October 25, 2023 to November 9, 2023.
WHAT ARE THE NATIONAL GAMES?
The roots of this incredible sporting event trace back to the 1920s Olympic movement. Initially, it was known as the Indian Olympic Games, taking its first significant shape during the 9th edition held in Lahore in 1924.
Fast forward to 1940, and it transformed into what we now know as the National Games. This extraordinary event brings together athletes from various corners of India, participating in a wide array of sports disciplines, all with the shared goal of promoting Olympic sports and fostering healthy competition.
37TH NATIONAL GAMES
Picture this: Athletes from every nook and cranny of the nation converging in Goa to showcase their skills and determination. You can expect to witness intense battles in popular sports like badminton, table tennis, volleyball and judo.
However, the magic of the National Games goes beyond the mainstream. You'll also have the opportunity to watch athletes competing in lesser-known traditional sports like Kalaripayattu and Gatka, offering a unique and enriching experience.
WHY SHOULD YOU WATCH THE NATIONAL GAMES?
This year, Goa is hosting a record number of 43 different sports disciplines in its program. That's quite a feat, isn't it? So, whether you're a sports enthusiast or just looking for some exciting entertainment, this is your chance to be a part of a historic sporting extravaganza.
But, where exactly should you head to cheer on these rising stars in Panjim? The action will unfold on the beautiful beaches, vibrant stadiums, and lively grounds of the capital city. Mark your calendars and prepare to be enthralled by the extraordinary talent that India has to offer in the realm of sports.
WHERE TO WATCH THE NATIONAL GAMES?
Athletics Stadium of Bambolim
Rugby: October 25 to 27
Athletics: October 29 to November 3
S.P.M. Stadium, Goa University
Badminton: October 19 to 24
Fencing: October 26 to 30
Volleyball: November 1 to 5
Vainguinim Beach, behind Cidade Goa
Coastal Rowing: November 3 to 6
Hawaii Beach
Yachting: November 3 to 8
Caranzalem-Miramar Road
Triathlon: November 4 to 7
Miramar Beach
Beach Handball: October 28 to November 1
Beach Volleyball: November 4 to 7
Mini Golf: November 1 to 3
Campal Multipurpose Indoor Stadium
Netball: October 22 to 27
Table Tennis: October 29 to November 2
Kabaddi: November 4 to 8
Swimming Pool, Campal
Aquatics: October 29 to November 4
Campal Open Grounds (Campal Sports Village) - A
Weightlifting: October 25 to 29
Wushu: November 1 to 4
Judo: November 6 to 8
Campal Open Grounds (Campal Sports Village) - B
Pencak Silat: October 26 to 29
Gatka: October 31 to November 2
Yogasana: November 5 to 9
Campal Open Grounds (Campal Sports Village) - C
Wrestling: November 1 to 3
Lagori: November 5 to 6
Kalaripayattu: November 7 to 8