The sports lineup includes men’s football, athletics, indoor and beach volleyball, boxing, judo, taekwondo, wrestling, wushu, pencak silat, karate, traditional Lao boxing, shooting, sepak takraw (chinlone), pétanque, golf, snooker, chess, archery, tug-of-war, xiangqi (Chinese chess), and boat racing.

The Ministry has set an ambitious target of winning at least 71 gold medals, aiming to improve on its performance at the 11th National Games in 2022, where it claimed 51 gold, 49 silver, and 36 bronze medals, finishing third overall.

Speaking to Army News on September 18, Colonel Phoungern Phommueang, Head of the Training Department of the General Staff of the Lao People’s Army, said that once the official announcement was received from the National Games Organizing Committee, the Ministry immediately launched comprehensive preparations. A dedicated technical committee was formed to oversee athlete training and ensure a strategic approach in every discipline.

“We’ve coordinated closely at all levels to ensure our athletes are physically and mentally prepared, and motivated to represent the Ministry with honor,” said Colonel Phoungern. He also encouraged military personnel across the country to support the athletes in order to boost their morale ahead of the competition.

Lieutenant Colonel Khamsueang Khuangvan, head coach of the Ministry’s boxing team, said initial training emphasized core elements such as strength, endurance, resilience, and speed. After several intensive cycles, the athletes have now reached about 70 percent readiness.

Reflecting on past results, Lieutenant Colonel Khamsueang added, “Our third-place finish at the previous National Games in Xieng Khouang was a proud achievement. This year, we aim to surpass that and deliver even greater results.”

With less than two months to go before the opening ceremony, the Ministry of National Defense is preparing for a strong showing at the 12th National Games, reinforcing its role in national sports and continuing its tradition of athletic excellence.

KPL