Senapati: The 1st District level Jr Indigenous Wrestling that commenced on Nov 22 concluded on Friday at Astro Turf Ground, Senapati. The closing function was graced by Brig SJ Tiwari, Commander, 59 Mountain Brigade, Senapati as chief guest.
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Gideon RK, secretary, of Senapati District Wrestling Association, Manipur in his welcome note stated that it was the first time that a junior-level wrestling event at such a scale had been conducted in the district. The secretary maintained that the initiative had been a grand success where 115 young men showcased their skills, talents, acumen and sportsmanship making the event a grand spectacle. The championship witnessed keenly contested and hard-fought matches. SDWAM secretary also expressed gratitude to the Red Shield Division of the Indian Army for their invaluable support in conducting the event. The SDWAM secretary also requested the Indian army to continue supporting the association to conduct such championships even in future, as their support has not only given the desired limelight to the traditional sports and provided an opportunity for the youth to showcase their talents and sportsmanship but also encouraged and helped to preserve the cultural and social heritage. Naga wrestling is one of the oldest traditional games practised since time immemorial, he said adding that the beauty of the game is to encourage fitness, health and friendship. He said that it is regrettable to see so many talented sportspersons fail to attain their best potential due to poor infrastructure in the state and districts. Neither there is provision to cater for job reservation or a framed policy to implement in schools, he said.SDWAM secretary is hopeful to see many wrestlers coming up from the region and achieving greater heights representingeven at the national and international level too.
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Speaking as the chief guest, Brig SJ Tiwari said that the army supported the event with the aim of providing an opportunity and platform for the youth of Senapati to give an opportunity to connect to the indigenous games. With more than 100 youth participating in the event, the army officer is hopeful to bring change in society assuring that the Indian army shall try to organise such championships annually with the hope to invite more youth to participate from other districts also. Encouraging the losers who did not get prizes, the Brigadier advised them not to get discouraged but to take it as an inspiration to reach higher levels as they had shown their talents and tactics during the games.
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Hriikhelou Duomai, s/o Shele of Phuba Khuman village, Senapati district bagged the championship in the Above 60 kg weight category while Dziipangao, s/o Sapunii of Lakhamai village bagged the runners-up in the big boys category. Both the finalists weighed 75 kg each.
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In the 51-60 kg weight category, Vikho Dule (57 kg), s/o W. Veikho of Saranamai village bagged the championship while Khou Shekho (53 kg), s/o Shekho of Tunggam village bagged the runners-up.
Sounii Vikho (50 kg), s/o Vikho of Tunggam village bagged the championship in the 50 kg and below category whileRikai Tho (47 kg), s/o Tho of Tunggam village bagged the runners-up.
Each champion carried away prizes of Rs 30,000 cash + medal + certificates and runners-up with Rs 20,000 cash + medal + certificates. The event was organised by the Senapati District Wrestling Association, Manipur (SDWAM) in collaboration with the Red Shield Division of the Indian Army.
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