Sports: The second day of the 12th National School Athletics Meet at the track and field center in Thimphu yesterday was called off when a heavy downpour in the afternoon interrupted the programmes.
The opening day of the meet on Saturday was also disrupted by rain after the inaugural ceremony.
Top atheletes from 20 dzongkhags are taking part in the six-day programme. A total of 334 students, 168 boys and 166 girls from 100 schools have gathered in the capital to compete at a national level.
There are about 13 athletics events, including sprint, jump and throw. The best athletes will be declared on the last day of the programme.
Health Minister Tandin Wangchuk emphasised on the importance of physical exercise in order to lead a healthy lifestyle. Highlighting the importance of youth for the development of the country, Lyonpo said that it is important for youth at this age to have a clear idea on building a better future for them and to avoid indulging into any anti-social activities.
Lyonpo said that such initiatives, besides instilling essential life skills will go a long way in cultivating healthy habits among the largest and the most important population group.
“We hope that the sports meet and other such activities will help curb unhealthy activities and vices and help nurture a generation of productive citizens,” said Lyonpo Tandin Wangchuk.
The Department of Youth and Sports in collaboration with Bhutan Olympic Committee and Bhutan Amateur Athletics Federation has planned several activities besides the athletic events for the participants throughout the six-day event.
The event is organised to encourage active youth participation and to build solidarity among the youth in country.
By Younten Tshedup