The “Fifth Bethanchok Chairperson’s Cup” ward-level seven-a-side football tournament for the year 2080 has been inaugurated by Bhagwan Adhikari, the Chairperson of Bethanchok Rural Municipality, at the Tipchok Sports Ground in Ward No. 4.
Addressing the event, Chairperson Adhikari stated that such competitions help foster and showcase local talent by encouraging competition among the municipality’s residents. He highlighted the municipality’s investment in sports to enhance interest in games at the ward level and stated that various competitions have been organized to promote sports. Adhikari emphasized that sports play a crucial role in establishing national pride, dignity, and identity, and that the municipality continues to invest in sports development.
Sitaram Timilsina, Head of the Sports Branch of Bethanchok Rural Municipality, noted that sports are essential for producing citizens with disciplined, healthy bodies and minds. He said, “Athletes are the national assets of the country. The development of sports and the infrastructure for games are crucial for creating an environment conducive to sports. The municipality is actively engaged in promoting sports and developing sports infrastructure through various activities.” Timilsina added that understanding the importance of sports is essential for avoiding physical or mental impairment, and such competitions are necessary for laying the foundation for social unity and prosperity.
According to Maiti Tamang, Chairperson of the organizing Bhumi Mata Youth Club, the tournament, which started on Ashwin 28 (October 15), will feature 16 teams and will run until Kartik 3 (November 18). The winning team will receive a cash prize of 60,000 NPR, a trophy, medals, and a certificate. The runner-up team will be awarded 30,000 NPR, a trophy, medals, and a certificate. Additionally, awards will be given for Best Player, Highest Scorer, Best Defender, and Player of the Series, all with cash prizes.
During the opening match of the tournament, Karn Tamang, a member of Ward No. 4, handed over the ball to ANFA referees Ram Shrestha and Jayaj Narsingh Shrestha. In the opening game, the Bhumi Mata Gaurishankar team defeated the Salandu Bagar team with a score of 6-1. Krishna Tamang scored 2 goals for Bhumi Mata Gaurishankar, while Ganesh Tamang, Binay Tamang, Divas Tamang, and Buddha Tamang each scored 1 goal. For Salandu Bagar, the consolation goal was scored by Pema Lama.
