PANJIM: The IOA delegation which inspected the venues for the 37th National Games to be held in October-November expressed satisfaction with the same and complimented the Government at the way it is getting ready to organise the major event.
It will be the visit by the members of IOA Technical Committee next that will be eagerly awaited as the panel will go into details at each venue and discipline-wise concentrating on the equipment and other matter.
Amitabh Sharma, IOA’s Executive Member and Chairman GTCC, stated at a Press Conference today that the team explored the possibilities of staging the weightlifting event in Ponda since the Pernem Stadium at Savalvada is occupied by GMR of Mopa Airport. “There were minor concerns that have been discussed with the SAG. Ponda will not be the best venue for staging weightlifting events as the area required a strong platform for lowering and dropping weights, some of them being very heavy. As such the surface has to be very compact and solid as with the dropping of the heavy weights, the surface could get damaged,” stated Sharma.
Actually the dropping of weights on an improper surface could damage both the floor as well at the equipment. The extreme force that occurs when you drop or lower the weight on a concrete floor can damage bars and bumper plates. A lifting platform absorbs some of that force, prolonging the use of the equipment.
Asked about the number of events, Sharma said: “As of now 37 for sure, but certain sports will be added. Our endeavour is also to promote domestic sports.” Consequently, sports like Pencak Silat an Indonesian martial arts form, Lagori and Roll Ball were almost sure of securing a place in the Games.
Sharma revealed that cycling and shooting events will not be staged in the State as Goa does not have either a velodrome or a shooting range. Dona Paula would be the venue for sailing events.
Sports Minister Govind Gaude reiterated that the Games will be held in October-November as announced earlier.
