Ukhrul, November 10: An auspicious badminton tournament was held at the Star Badminton Academy, Dimapur, from Friday (November 7) to Saturday (November 8). The event was organized by conveners Angam Shaiza (Retd. IRS officer) and Themreikan Phungshok (Joint Commissioner, Income Tax).
The All Tangkhul Veterans Badminton Tournament was held for the first time this year. It was organized to promote unity within the Tangkhul community, encourage friendly competition, and inspire the younger generation to pursue active and healthy lifestyles.
Beyond sportsmanship, the tournament served as a platform to get to know one another better and strengthen bonds among Tangkhuls across India.
The competition was divided into singles and doubles categories. Singles were open to ages 35–45 and 45+, while doubles featured combined age groups of 75+, 85+, 95+, and 105+.
The event was graced by Rev. Ngatangmi Shimray, pastor of Tangkhul Baptist Church, Half Nagarjan, Dimapur, who led the opening prayer and delivered the first serve to inaugurate the games.
The matches were met with great enthusiasm as players and spectators filled the hall with cheers and friendly rivalry. The winners of the tournament were:
MS 35: Soyao Mungshung, MS 45+: H.A. Vareshang, MD 75+: Themreikan Phungshok and Soyao Mungshung, MD 85+: Honyeson Ningshen and David Rungsung, MD 95+: A.R. Songam and Thingrei Hongray, MD 105+: Angam Shaiza and Honeyson Ningshen
The chief referee was Woleichan A. Shimray, and the total prize money stood at ₹80,000.
Encouraged by the success and warm response, the All Tangkhul Veterans Tournament will continue next year, hoping to see more participants and to welcome Tangkhuls and well-wishers from across India to join in the celebration of fellowship and fitness.