National Games 2023 to be held in Goa from Oct. 26 to Nov. 9

The 37th edition of the National Games, scheduled for 2023, is set to take place in the picturesque state of Goa. After multiple delays and changes in hosting rights, the event is finally slated to run from October 26 to November 9, marking the first time Goa has hosted this prestigious competition.

National Games, Historical Background

Origin and Early Years: The National Games, formerly known as the Indian Olympic Games, made its debut in Lahore, undivided India, in 1924.

Hosting Troubles: Goa was originally awarded the hosting rights for the 36th edition of the National Games, slated for 2016. However, due to numerous postponements, Gujarat hosted the event in the previous year.

National Games Expanding Horizons

Record-Breaking Sports: The National Games 2023 will feature an impressive 43 sports, including both Olympic and indigenous disciplines, a significant increase from the 36 sports in the previous edition.

Newcomers: Several sports will make their National Games debut, such as Kho Kho, yogasana, and mallakhamb.

National Games New Sports Debut

Beach Football
Roll Ball
Golf
Sepaktakraw
Sqay Martial Arts
Kalliyarapattu
Pencak Silat

National Games Event Details

Venue Diversity: The various sporting competitions will be spread across multiple venues throughout Goa. However, cycling and golf will be held in New Delhi.

Expected Participation: With over 10,000 athletes expected to participate, the National Games 2023 promises to be a grand spectacle of Indian sports talent.

Defending Champions and Contenders

Services Sports Control Board: In the previous edition hosted in Gujarat, the Services Sports Control Board emerged as champions, representing the Indian Armed Forces. They secured 128 medals, including an impressive 61 golds.

Maharashtra: Maharashtra closely followed with 140 medals, which included 39 gold medals, establishing themselves as strong contenders.

Haryana: Haryana wasn’t far behind with an impressive 38 gold medals, contributing to their total tally of 116 medals.

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