Shillong, June 15: In preparation for hosting the 39th National Games in 2027, Meghalaya has taken an important step towards strengthening its sporting ecosystem with the formation of the Meghalaya Triathlon Association (MTA).

The association was officially constituted during a meeting in Shillong, bringing together athletes, coaches and sports enthusiasts who share a common vision of developing triathlon in the state and preparing athletes for national-level competition.

The gathering also witnessed the election of the association’s first executive committee. Meghalaya’s renowned ultra-marathon runner Rephica Becky Pde was elected President, while Shivani Pde was chosen as General Secretary.

Rephica is widely regarded as one of Meghalaya’s leading endurance athletes and has earned recognition through several long-distance races across India, including the Tawang Marathon, Kalimpong Ultra Marathon and the Khardungla Challenge. According to the association, she secured back-to-back podium finishes at the prestigious Khardungla Challenge in 2018 and 2019.

The newly formed body has set its sights firmly on the 39th National Games, which Meghalaya will proudly host in 2027. Participants at the meeting described the event as a historic opportunity to showcase the state’s sporting talent and establish Meghalaya as a force in triathlon.

Speaking after her election, Rephica said the formation of the association marks the beginning of a long-term journey for the sport in the state.

“A triathlon demands endurance across three disciplines — swimming, cycling and running. Building this association will require the same discipline, patience and commitment,” she said.

The association outlined several priorities for the coming years, including talent identification across districts, conducting selection trials, creating structured training programmes, securing qualified coaches and technical support, and providing athletes with regular competition exposure.

Rephica also stressed the need to nurture young talent, strengthen training systems for swimming, cycling and running, and build a competitive pathway for aspiring athletes.

General Secretary Shivani Pde said the National Games present a rare opportunity for Meghalaya to create a lasting sporting legacy.

“Our mission is to identify talent, develop athletes and create champions. We want young athletes from every corner of Meghalaya to dream big, train hard and believe they belong on the national stage,” she said.

The formation of the association comes at a time when Meghalaya is making significant investments in sports infrastructure and athlete development ahead of the National Games. Sports administrators have repeatedly described the 2027 event as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to elevate the state’s sporting profile.

The association has also called upon schools, colleges, fitness enthusiasts and aspiring athletes to join the effort as Meghalaya begins preparations for what promises to be a landmark chapter in the state’s sporting history.

With a focus on grassroots talent development and excellence in competition, the Meghalaya Triathlon Association hopes to build a strong foundation for the sport and inspire a new generation of endurance athletes across the state.

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