Kaski, Dec 29: The 23rd edition of the Aha Rara Pokhara Gold Cup, a premier national and international inter-club invitational football tournament held in Mofasal, is scheduled to take place from January 9 to 20. Organized by Sahara Club Pokhara, the competition will feature foreign teams, ‘A’ division clubs, Mofusal teams, and the host team competing for the title at the Pokhara Stadium.

Sankata Club Kathmandu emerged as the winner in the previous edition, with Bhutanese Youth Sports Club, Minnesota, USA, securing the runner-up position. The tournament, aimed at promoting sports development and establishing Pokhara as a sports tourism city, has become synonymous with the city since its inception in 2055.

The Aha Rara Gold Cup is among the oldest competitions in the country and has received sponsorship from Himshree Foods Pvt Ltd, the producer of Aha and Rara Noodles, since its inception. Additionally, awards in memory of Surya Bahadur KC and the National Sportsman of the Year Award, sponsored by Khem Bahadur Gurung, will be presented during the event.

The tournament aims to support the Surya Bahadur KC Smriti Sahara Football Academy, providing free healthcare, education, and football training to underprivileged children. The academy currently supports 14 children from eight districts in its fourth batch.