1st Governor’s Archery Gold Cup (Compound) Tournament begins in Gangtok

GANGTOK, (IPR): The 1st Governor’s Archery Gold Cup (Compound) Tournament 2026 commenced today at Tathangchen Archery Field, Gangtok. Organised by Sikkim Archery Association, the tournament aims to promote archery and provide a competitive platform for talented archers from across the State.

A total of 19 teams are participating in the inaugural edition of the tournament.

The tournament was inaugurated by Speaker Mingma Norbu Sherpa, in the presence of minister and Sikkim Archery Association president Sonam Lama, area MLA Tenzing Norbu Lamtha, Tathangchen councillor Lhasey Doma, Prince Palden Gyurmed Namgyal, Chief Minister’s advisor Kunga Nima Lepcha and others.

Speaking on the occasion, 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 Prem Singh Tamang, under whose guidance the Association has been organising tournaments. He said the Governor’s Gold Cup, carrying prize money of Rs. 5 lakh for the winner and Rs. 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 the latter 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.