The excitement is building as Goa gets ready to host the 37th edition of the National Games from October 26 to November 9, 2023. The National Games are India’s very own Olympic-style multi-sport event, where athletes from various states and Union Territories compete for coveted medals.

The National Games have a rich history and have seen the participation of several prominent Indian athletes, including the likes of Neeraj Chopra, Sania Mirza, Mirabai Chanu, Sajan Prakash, and Manu Bhaker, among others.

What makes this edition even more special is that it marks the first time Goa will serve as the host for the National Games. Goa was initially awarded the hosting rights for the 36th edition, which was scheduled for 2016. However, due to multiple postponements, the event was finally hosted by Gujarat last year. The National Games, which were first held in Lahore, undivided India, in 1924, were originally known as the Indian Olympic Games until 1938.

The 2023 National Games are poised to set new records with an impressive line-up of 43 sports, featuring a blend of Olympic and indigenous sports. Last year’s edition saw over 7,000 athletes competing across 36 sports. Notably, Kho Kho, Yogasana, and Mallakhamb made their debut at the National Games.

This edition of the National Games introduces a diverse array of sports, including beach football, roll ball, mini golf, sepaktakraw, sqay martial arts, kalliyarapattu, and pencak silat. Additionally, yachting and taekwondo are making a return after being excluded during the last edition.

In a nod to India’s rich sporting heritage, traditional sports like Lagori and Gatka have been included as demonstration sports, adding an element of nostalgia to the event. Multiple venues throughout Goa have been selected to host the various competitions, with cycling and golf taking place in New Delhi.

With over 10,000 athletes expected to participate, the National Games 2023 promises to be a monumental event. The Services Sports Control Board, representing the Indian Armed Forces, clinched the National Games championship in Gujarat last year with an impressive haul of 128 medals, including 61 golds. Maharashtra closely followed with 140 medals, including 39 golds, just edging ahead of Haryana’s 38 gold medals from their overall tally of 116.

As the countdown to the National Games 2023 begins, all eyes are on Goa, where athletes from every corner of India will converge to showcase their talent and compete for glory in this prestigious multisport event. Goa, known for its scenic beauty and vibrant culture, is all set to add another feather to its cap by hosting these iconic games, promising a memorable sporting experience for participants and spectators alike.