Shillong, Aug. 2: Laban Sports Club, one of the oldest in the Northeast, is in the midst of its 110th anniversary celebrations here. The festivities began on Saturday with recollections of the past contributions of its officials and players, while planning for the future.

Founded as Laban Athletics Club here in 1906, it later changed its name and has recorded major success in football, cricket, badminton, hockey and other sports.

The opening ceremony of the celebrations began bright and early on Saturday with a Run for Laban marathon, which saw the participation of youth from across the neighbourhood.

Laban has always been a club comprising players from various communities. It is most active in football. However, in recent times it has struggled.

The club had to play in the Shillong Sports Association third division in 2012, but progressed to the first division in 2014, where they remain at present.

Like so many clubs, Laban has had its fair share of financial difficulties and has been unable to attract sponsorship.

Funds are often provided by club officials and a few well-wishers, with significant support also coming from its chief adviser and local MLA Sanbor Shullai.

At the formal opening ceremony of the anniversary celebrations, Shullai, a former footballer at the club, said an indoor stadium was being built at Laban Sports Club Ground and it will be completed by December.

Rs 50 lakh has been sanctioned to reconstruct the ground, which was damaged in heavy rain last year. The restoration will be complete by December.