Tag: Sports in Goa

Events in Goa

Uzbekistan’s Konstantin Belousov and UK’s Ellie Garrett Triumph at IRONMAN 70.3 Goa 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

The fifth edition of IRONMAN 70.3 Goa, India began in breathtaking fashion as the sun rose over Miramar Beach, with the Hon. Chief Minister of Goa, Dr. Pramod Sawant, officially flagging off the event. Alongside him were Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, Deepak Raj, Race Director, Saiyami Kher, Actress and Race Ambassador, and Neil D’Silva, Event Director. The event saw more than 1,300 triathletes from 31 countries dive into the Arabian Sea to begin their quest for one of the most challenging and scenic endurance races in Asia.

Uzbekistan’s Konstantin Belousov delivered a commanding performance to win the men’s title with a time of 4:25:47, while the United Kingdom’s Ellie Garrett claimed the women’s crown, finishing in 5:18:43. The Indian Air Force contingent dominated the relay category, sweeping all three podium positions.

The triathlon tested participants through a 1.9 km swim, 90 km cycling leg, and a 21.1 km run, winding through Goa’s heritage-lined streets and coastal beauty. Thousands of spectators lined the route, creating a vibrant atmosphere that captured the energy and inclusivity of the IRONMAN spirit.

In a memorable highlight, women’s champion Ellie Garrett competed alongside her husband, Tom Garrett, who finished eighth overall. The couple, veterans of more than 30 half and 10 full-distance IRONMAN races, praised Goa’s course and community for its warmth and enthusiasm. Ellie described the race as “the hardest 70.3 I’ve ever done, but also the most stunning,” while Tom said, “The people, the place, the food, the weather — everything’s exceeded our expectations.”

Adding to the weekend’s excitement, Olympian swimmer-turned-coach Sandeep Sejwal and his colleagues from the Inspire Institute of Sport participated in the relay event, while political leaders Tejasvi Surya and K. Annamalai completed the triathlon, joining the ranks of Indian IRONMAN finishers.

The spirit of sportsmanship extended beyond the main event, with over 900 children participating in the Policybazaar IRONKIDS race, representing the promise of India’s next generation of athletes.

With participants from 62 countries across five editions, IRONMAN 70.3 Goa continues to strengthen Goa’s global identity as a hub for wellness, endurance, and world-class sporting excellence.

Events in Goa

Dr. Pramod Sawant Flags Off IRONMAN 70.3 Goa 2025 — A Global Celebration of Endurance and Unity

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant officially flagged off IRONMAN 70.3 Goa 2025, marking the beginning of India’s biggest international triathlon and a proud moment for the state of Goa. The event, now in its fifth edition, has become a symbol of endurance, camaraderie, and the spirit of global sportsmanship. This year, more than 1,300 athletes from 31 countries gathered on the scenic shores of Goa to take part in the demanding challenge that combines swimming, cycling, and running in one of the most picturesque sporting backdrops in the world.

In his address, Dr. Sawant extended a warm welcome on behalf of the people of Goa to all participants, officials, and guests who had traveled from across India and abroad. He highlighted Goa’s growing reputation as not only a leisure destination but also a center for wellness, sport, and active living. He commended the dedication and professionalism of the organisers, Yoska and the IRONMAN India team, whose tireless efforts have helped transform the event into a globally recognized sporting festival.

The flag-off ceremony was attended by several prominent figures including Shri Tejasvi Surya, Shri Annamalai, Ms. Saiyami Kher, and Shri Deepak Raj, who joined in encouraging the athletes as they embarked on the grueling challenge. Dr. Sawant expressed his admiration for every participant’s commitment and resilience, wishing them strength, focus, and determination throughout their journey.

As IRONMAN 70.3 Goa 2025 unfolds, it stands as a testament to the power of human endurance and the unifying force of sport, showcasing Goa’s evolution into a thriving destination that celebrates fitness, adventure, and the indomitable human spirit.

Sports

CM Dr. Pramod Sawant Inaugurates FIDE World Cup Chess Match in Goa

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa witnessed a historic moment as Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant made the ceremonial first move in the highly anticipated match between World Champion D. Gukesh and GM Kazybek Nogerbek at the FIDE World Cup. The event was attended by eminent chess personalities, including Viswanathan Anand, GM Abhijeet Kunte, MLA Praveen Arlekar, and other dignitaries, making it a significant occasion for Indian chess.

Speaking at the event, the Chief Minister remarked that hosting such a prestigious global chess tournament is a proud milestone for Goa and reflects the state’s growing importance in international sports. He emphasized that the event not only promotes competitive chess but also inspires young talent in Goa to aspire to global excellence.

The FIDE World Cup match between D. Gukesh and GM Kazybek Nogerbek brought together India’s finest chess talents and international stars, highlighting the nation’s rising stature in the global chess arena. The presence of legends like Viswanathan Anand further elevated the event, making it a memorable experience for players, spectators, and fans.

This historic occasion signifies Goa’s commitment to hosting world-class sporting events, fostering talent, and promoting the state as a hub for cultural and sporting excellence.

Sports

Goa Strengthens Sports Tourism with Goa Rugby 7s 2025 – Season 2

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa continues to raise the bar for sports tourism in India with the announcement of Goa Rugby 7s 2025 – Season 2, scheduled to take place on November 15 and 16 at the GMC Athletic Stadium in Bambolim. The tournament, which has become a major highlight in the country’s emerging rugby scene, is supported by the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, and organized in collaboration with the Crocotycles Rugby Foundation.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, emphasized the strategic importance of this tournament in diversifying Goa’s tourism offerings. “Goa is moving steadily towards becoming a premier sports tourism hub of India. Our support to tournaments like Goa Rugby 7s 2025 is a reflection of our vision to diversify Goa’s tourism offerings beyond beaches and nightlife. By nurturing such high-energy events, we are creating opportunities for our youth, boosting local communities, and showcasing Goa as a world-class destination for sports enthusiasts and travellers alike.”

Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, added that the event exemplifies Goa’s regenerative tourism approach. “The Department of Tourism is committed to developing an ecosystem where sports and tourism work hand in hand. Events like Goa Rugby 7s not only elevate Goa’s profile on the national and international sporting calendar but also align with our Regenerative Tourism approach by fostering local talent, supporting businesses, and ensuring sustainable visitor experiences.”

The collaboration with Crocotycles Rugby Foundation further highlights Goa’s intention to support niche and emerging sports. Rugby, a rapidly growing sport in India, is gaining momentum in Goa and offers an excellent platform for local athletes to showcase their skills at a national level. The tournament is expected to attract top teams from across India and potentially international entries, making it a significant event on Goa’s sporting calendar.

Goa’s scenic locations, modern infrastructure, and hospitable culture make it a perfect backdrop for such events. From marathons to triathlons and now rugby tournaments, the state is increasingly becoming a preferred venue for sporting events that align with sustainability and community development goals.

With Goa Rugby 7s 2025 – Season 2, the state reaffirms its commitment to promoting sports as a means of tourism diversification and youth engagement, positioning itself firmly as a leader in India’s sports tourism movement.

Sports

Goa Clinches Triple Bronze as West Zone Badminton Finals Conclude in Campal

Tanisha Cardozo

PANJIM: Hosts Goa concluded their campaign with a strong showing at the Yonex Sunrise West Zone Inter-State Badminton Championships 2025, securing bronze medals in the men’s, women’s, and junior boys’ team events. The tournament, held at the Indoor Stadium, Campal from August 30 to September 5, featured top talent from across western India and ended with Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Chhattisgarh clinching the golds in various categories.

The men’s team final saw Maharashtra battle back after an early loss to defeat Chhattisgarh 3-1. Despite a rough start with Varun Kapur losing the opener, Maharashtra rallied behind solid wins from Darshan Pujari, the doubles team of Viplav and Viraj Kuvale, and a decisive victory by Sankalp Gurala.

In the women’s team final, Gujarat and Maharashtra delivered one of the tournament’s most exciting contests. After Gujarat gained an early 2-0 lead through strong performances by Tasnim Mir and Adita Rao, Maharashtra fought back to level the score. Ultimately, Gujarat’s pairing of Mir and Rao held steady to seal the win 3-2 in a dramatic decider.

Chhattisgarh dominated the junior boys’ team final, defeating a strong Maharashtra side 2-0. Rounak Chouhan led the charge with a thrilling win over India’s top U17 player, Dev Ruparelia, followed by a convincing doubles win by Divyansh Agrawal and Saurav Sahu.

In the junior girls’ team final, Maharashtra edged Chhattisgarh 2-1. After an early setback, Maharashtra’s duo Shravani Walekar and Taarini Suri levelled the score, paving the way for Prakriti Sharma’s gritty three-set victory in the decider.

Throughout the tournament, Goa’s home teams delivered consistent performances, earning them well-deserved bronze medals in three major categories. The championships were jointly organised by the Goa Badminton Association and the Sports Authority of Goa, showcasing the region’s emerging shuttlers and the growing popularity of badminton in the state.

From nail-biting rallies to breakthrough performances, the event reflected the rising standard of regional badminton. With such spirited displays, the future looks bright for both Goa’s young athletes and the broader West Zone badminton ecosystem.