Gangtok, August 22 (IPR): The inaugural 1st Governor’s Archery Gold Cup (Compound) Tournament 2026 commenced today at the Tathangchen Archery Field, Gangtok, organised by the Sikkim Archery Association to promote archery and provide a competitive platform for talented archers from across the State.
A total of 19 teams are participating in the tournament.
The tournament was inaugurated by Speaker of the Sikkim Legislative Assembly, Mr Mingma Norbu Sherpa, in the presence of Minister-cum-President, Sikkim Archery Association, Mr Sonam Lama; Advisor, Forest Department and Area MLA, Mr Tenzing Norbu Lamtha; Councillor, Tathangchen, Ms Lhasey Doma; Prince Palden Gyurmed Namgyal; Advisor to the Hon’ble Chief Minister, Mr Kunga Nima Lepcha; former MLA, Mr Kunga Zangpo Bhutia; Secretary, Department of Personnel, Mr Rinzing Chewang Bhutia; and Secretary, Health Department, Mr Tshewang Gyatso, among other dignitaries, officials, members of the Association and local residents.
Speaking on the occasion, President of the Sikkim Archery Association and Cabinet Minister, Mr Sonam Lama, described the inaugural Governor’s Archery Gold Cup as a significant step towards strengthening archery and sports development in Sikkim.
He acknowledged the support of Chief Minister Mr Prem Singh Tamang, under whose guidance the Association has been organising tournaments. He said the Governor’s Gold Cup, carrying prize money of ₹5 lakh for the winner and ₹3 lakh for the runner-up, would provide greater encouragement and recognition to archers.
The Minister said the Association was committed to taking archery competitions across all districts to identify and nurture young talent. He emphasised the role of sports in providing youth with positive opportunities and helping them stay away from substance abuse and other negative influences.
Citing the achievements of archers including Sonam Bhutia of Rhenock and international archer Tarundeep Rai of Namchi, he urged young athletes to aspire for national and international excellence. He also highlighted the Government’s investment in sports infrastructure and expressed hope for a dedicated archery academy in Sikkim in the future.
The tournament has drawn participation from archery clubs and teams from across the State, with 19 teams competing for the inaugural Governor’s Gold Cup. The competition is being conducted in a knockout format, with teams progressing through successive rounds towards the championship.
The first match of the tournament was played between Navy Shotak and Sheraboo, with Sheraboo emerging victorious in the opening tie.
The inaugural Governor’s Gold Cup is expected to further strengthen Sikkim’s sporting culture, encourage greater participation in archery and provide a platform for emerging archers to pursue competitive opportunities at the State, national and international levels.
Report from DIO-GANGTOK